To obtain a full UK driving licence there are two tests to pass; a theory and a practical.

The Theory Test

This is in fact two separate tests to be taken at the same sitting and both passed. The two parts consist of 50 questions (of which you have to get 43 or more correct) and a hazard perception part (need to get 44 or more out of 75). You should allow about two hours to take both parts (although it sometimes takes considerably less time).

To take the test you are sat in a booth with a PC. First you will be given a demonstration on the question part and given a chance to practice with the touch screen. If you do not like the touch screen you can still point and click with the mouse. The real test will then commence and you will have 60 minutes to complete all the questions. Read ALL the question (it may ask for more than one answer) and ALL the answers, a couple may be similar, but one is MORE correct. You can 'flag' any questions you are unsure of and return to review your answer later. All the questions are taken from a database of about 1000.

If necessary the test can be taken in a number of different languages. There is also a 'reader' facility where the questions and answers are read to you through headphones as you move the mouse over the questions and answers. This is particularly helpful to anyone not confident in reading or in the language. For more information visit the DSA website. A link is on our Useful Links page.

Now the Hazard Perception part begins. Again you will be given a demonstration, during this you need to wear the head-phones provided. This will explain how the test works, how you will be scored and to prevent you falling into the pitfall of  ‘over-clicking’ and not scoring any points. The test consist of 14 one minute video clips of real road footage. All have one 'developing hazard' that will score points, except one clip will have two scoring hazards making a total of 15 scoring opportunities. Points are scored by clicking the mouse button when you see the hazard developing. The sooner you see and click the more points awarded, five at the earliest possible time down to zero if you miss it altogether. Unlike the questions you cannot go back and have another try!

The Practical Test

When you arrive at the test centre you should sit in the waiting room and try to relax. Your examiner will enter the room at the time of your test and call your name. You will then be asked to sign a residency declaration and that your car is insured for the test (if using your own car check with your insurance company, some do not insure for driving tests!). Our cars are fully insured for test purposes. As you sign they will check your documents (see our FAQ page for the documents you will need).

Once the paperwork is completed they will ask you to show them to your car. If you wish someone to accompany you on your test (must be over 16) it is now you ask the examiner, they cannot refuse. On the way they ask you to read a number plate at 20.5 metres away. If you cannot read it they will abandon the test. Now they will ask you two questions about maintenance of a car. Our instructors will give you a handout with all the questions and answers for you to learn some weeks prior to your test. The examiner will also run through where all the parts you need to know about are on the car. When done they will ask you to get in and make yourself comfortable while they write down details of the car. DO NOT start the engine. When they join you they will explain what the test will consist of and how they will give their directions and instructions.

Now the actual driving part of the test will begin. You will be directed around a predefined route of about 9-11 miles to last about 35-40 minutes. Do not worry if your test takes more or less time than this due to traffic conditions. During the test it is normal to be asked to stop and move off several times. You will also be asked to carry out two out of four manoeuvres (parallel park, bay park, reverse around corner or turn in the road). If the test centre does not have a car park you will not get a bay park. One in three people will also get an emergency stop. Once back at the test centre the examiner will ask you to switch of your engine and inform you the test has finished. The best advice we can give for success is try and relax and enjoy the drive. Also remember if you did it with your instructor do it with the examiner, if you did not do it with your instructor definitely do not do it with the examiner.

They will then spend a few seconds completing their paperwork. You will then be given the result. To pass you will need to finish with less than 15 driver faults and no serious or dangerous ones. If successful they will complete the pass certificate and ask if you would like your instructor present. They may point out one or two points to keep an eye on when driving on your own. If unsuccessful they will give a debrief and point out the area(s) that let you down. They will also ask if you would like your instructor present. We would suggest you do as the debrief at the time will probably make more sense to your instructor than yourself.

If you have any further questions please feel free to give us a ring and we will help.