Theory Test
Driving theory test: What is it and why is it important?
The Driving Theory Test, set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), is a mandatory, computer-based exam that all learner drivers in the UK must pass before they can book their practical driving test. This important first step ensures that new drivers have a solid understanding of essential driving concepts, road rules, traffic signs, and safe driving practices. The theory test provides the foundational knowledge required for safe and responsible driving on UK roads.
It is designed to prepare learners not only to pass their practical test but to become confident, well-informed drivers. At One Stop Driving Academy, we support you throughout the entire learning process, offering guidance and resources to help you succeed in both your theory and practical tests.
What is included in the driving theory test?
The driving theory test is made up of two sections: a multiple-choice test and a hazard perception section. You must pass both parts to successfully complete the test. Below is a breakdown of what each section involves and the requirements for passing.
The multiple choice section
The multiple-choice section consists of 50 questions based on the Highway Code, traffic signs, and essential driving knowledge. Before this part begins, you’ll receive instructions on how the test works and have the opportunity to try a practice question to familiarise yourself with the format. You’ll have 57 minutes to complete all the questions, which are presented in multiple-choice format. Some of these questions will be based on a case study, where you’ll read a short driving scenario and answer five related questions. These are designed to reflect real-life situations a driver might encounter on the road. It’s important to read each question carefully—ideally more than once—and if you’re unsure about an answer, you can flag it and return to it later. Once you’ve completed this section, you’ll have the option to take a short three-minute break before moving on to the next part of the test.
The Hazard Perception Section
The hazard perception section follows and typically takes between 15 to 20 minutes. This part of the test includes 14 video clips showing various road scenes, each featuring at least one developing hazard. One of the clips will contain two hazards, making a total of 15 hazards to identify. Your task is to spot developing hazards as quickly as possible by clicking the mouse when you see a situation that would require the driver to take action—such as a pedestrian stepping into the road or a vehicle pulling out unexpectedly. The faster you react, the more points you can score, with a maximum of five points per hazard. Before this section begins, you’ll watch an instructional video to ensure you understand what to expect and how the scoring works.
When you can take the theory test?
You can take the theory test from your 17th birthday onwards. You can take it from your 16th birthday if you get or have applied for, the enhanced rate of the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
Who needs to take the theory test
You usually need to take the theory test before you can get your full car driving licence. You don’t need to take the car theory test if you:
● want to upgrade an automatic car licence to a manual driving licence.
● already have a category B1 driving licence (3 or 4-wheeled light vehicles)
If you have a moped or motorcycle licence
You must pass a car theory test before taking the car driving test.
If your licence isn’t from Great Britain
Find out if you can drive in Great Britain (GB) with your non-GB licence without taking a theory and driving test.
- Change or check your test details
You can change the date of your theory test after you’ve booked it. You can check your appointment details if you’ve lost your booking confirmation.
- Rebook your test
Rebook your theory test if you have failed your test and want to resit it. You have to choose a date at least 3 working days from the date of your last theory test.