From 14th November 2002 the driving theory test changed. As well as answering multiple choice questions, you will also be tested for hazard perception skills. You will need to pass both parts of the test at the same sitting to pass the test. You need to be at least 17 years old to take the test and have in your possession a valid Provisional Driving Licence. If you do not have one yet visit the DVLA Web site to apply for one.
Part 1: This part consists of 50 multiple choice questions covering a range of driving topics. By touching the screen, you select an answer or answers from the selection shown. To pass you must answer 43 or more questions correctly in just under an hour.
Take your time when answering. You have plenty of time. If you are not sure of an answer, then you have the chance to 'flag it'. This means that it is marked, so that at the end, if you have enough time, you can read through the question again. Should you not be sure of an answer, try to eliminate those answers you know to be incorrect. In this way you can narrow down the possible answers that could be correct.
If you have time left over at the end, don't take a chance read through your answers again!-just to make sure.
To make sure you are ready study the Highway Code, The DSA Driving Skills book (formally known as the Driving Manual), The DSA official Theory Test book. You should also get the latest copy of the Hazard Perception test on CD-Rom. All of the books and CD-Roms you need are available through the HMSO website.
Part 2: After a break of up to 3 minutes, the Hazard Perception part will start. You will be shown a tutorial first. This uses sample footage with a soundtrack (headphones supplied), which will explain how to complete this part of the test. You may repeat this tutorial once more if you wish. The test consists of 14 video clips, each lasting about 1 minute. 13 of the clips show one scoreable hazzard and one clip has two soreable hazzards.The clips feature various types of hazards, such as vehicles, pedestrians and road conditions. You should respond by pressing the mouse button as soon as you see the hazard developing that may result in the driver having to take some action, such as changing speed or direction. The earlier the developing hazard is spotted and a response is made, the higher the score. Candidates can score up to five marks on each hazard and the test contains 15 scoreable hazards. You need to be careful though as each clip is shown only once and if you make lots of unnecessary responses in a very short space of time, or throughout the clip you will score 0 for that clip. Also if you fail to respond within the marked area of the clip 0 points will be given for that clip.
Don't be worried about when to click. Just try to imagine that you are driving the vehicle and when you reach a point were you know you would use your MSM routine, then click the mouse button. It doesn't matter where on the screen you click.
The Pass Mark for this part of the test will be introduced at 44 out of 75 for car drivers and motorcycle riders. Candidates are given their results when they have finished both parts of the test and have returned to the waiting room
Remember to take both parts of your driving licence. If you have the old style licence take along your valid passport as ID. For additional information on the theory and hazzard test click below