The Driving Test
Explained

The driving test comprises of 2 elements:

The Theory Test

This test is made up of a multiple choice part and a hazard perception part. You will need to pass both parts to pass your theory test.

1. Multiple Choice 

Consists of choosing the correct answer from a choice of 4. The number of questions is 50, and you must answer correctly a minimum of 43 questions to be successful. The time allowed is 57 minutes. After a short break you will take the hazard perception test.

2. Hazard Perception

Consist of watching a series of video clips (approx 1 minute long)on a computer screen, and you as the driver must spot the hazards and respond accordingly by clicking on the mouse.

There will be 14 video clips to watch, with 13 clips having one hazard and one clip having 2 hazards. The sooner you spot the hazard the higher the score. The maximum score for each clip is 5 (10 for the clip with 2 hazards), with 0 if you miss the hazards or if you click continuously. You must score a minimum of 44 (out of a possible 75) to pass.

Pass Certificate

If you pass one part but fail the other you will fail the whole test, and must take both parts again. If you pass both parts you will get a pass certificate. You will need this to book your practical test, and must be presented at the test centre, therefore it is important to keep it safe. The certificate is valid for 2 years.

The Practical Test

The practical test is straightforward, and it has been designed to see if you can drive safely on different roads and traffic conditions. Only the photo card part of your driving licence is needed now, and your theory test pass certificate for your practical test.

Vehicle Safety

Before you start you will have an eyesight check and will be asked a few vehicle safety questions, known as "show me, tell me questions".

The Driving Test 

The test itself lasts about 40 minutes, during which the examiner will give you directions to follow, and you drive on various roads and traffic conditions.

During the test you may be asked to carry out an Emergency Stop, and you will also be asked to carry out one reversing manoeuvre. You will also be asked to drive independently for about 10 minutes during the test, either by following a shown diagram, following verbal instructions or signposted directions, or a combination of these.

Pass Certificate

During the practical test you are allowed a number of minor faults, but if you incur one serious or one dangerous fault you will fail your test. If you pass your test the examiner will give you a Pass Certificate, and you can drive immediately, without having to wait for your full licence to arrive in the post.

You will also receive information on the PASS PLUS scheme and ECO driving.

GOOD LUCK!