Learning To Drive - Theory Test

After you have your provisional licence you will need to start thinking about taking your theory test.

The theory test consists of two parts; a multiple choice section and the hazard perception section. If you pass one part and fail the other you'll fail the whole test, and you'll need to take both parts again. Once you have passed the theory test you can then apply to take your practical driving test.

The multiple choice part is delivered using a touch screen computer. You will be asked 50 questions in 57 minutes. The pass mark is 43 out of 50. You may also choose to go through a practice session of the multiple choice questions to get used to the test. Once the practice session as been completed, the real test will begin.

The second part of the theory test is hazard perception. This part records your responses through the use of a computer mouse button.

The hazard perception part is also taken on a computer. You'll be presented with a series of 14 video clips featuring every day road scenes. You respond by clicking the computers mouse button. In each video clip there'll be at least one developing hazard, with one of the clips featuring two developing hazards.

To achieve a high score you'll need to respond to the developing hazard during the early part of its development. The maximum you can score on each hazard is five. You won't be able to review your answers to the hazard perception test, because on the road, you'll only have one chance to respond to the developing hazard!

The pass mark for the car and motorcycle hazard perception part of the theory test is 44 out of 75. You must bring your driving licence with photographic identification to your theory test.