Theory Test
In order to book your theory test you must have your provisional driving licence. The current cost is £23 and you can book your test on the DVSA onlinebooking system.
Most pupils study for the theory test in their own time, though I am happy to answer any questions you may have regarding either part of the test.
1. Multiple Choice Questions
In the first part of the test you will have around an hour to answer 50 multiple choice questions. The pass mark is 43 or more. You will be presented with one question at a time, and can navigate forwards and backwards, until you are happy with all your answers. To answer a question you must select the option using the touch-screen. There is a 15min practice session so you can get used to the system.
2. Hazard Perception
A video test about spotting hazards on the road.
The hazard perception part of the test follows the multiple choice part, after a short break.The test consists of 14 video clips, about a minute each, showing a variety of driving situations from the driver's point of view. You are assessed on how quickly you spot 'developing hazards', by clicking the mouse as soon as you see them.
In 13 of the clips there is one developing hazard, and in 1 (random) clip there are two developing hazards, but you can click several times for each video. A developing hazard is something that would cause the driver to change speed or direction, e.g. cars pulling out of driveways, cyclists turning, and pedestrians crossing.
3. Best Way to Improve?
The best way to improve your hazard perception is to practice whenever you are in the car - try spotting hazards as either the driver or passenger.
Practical Test
The practical test assesses your driving skills and safety awareness on the road. It includes an eyesight check, a vehicle safety question, and a 40-minute driving test. The test will involve various road types and traffic situations, including parking and maneuvering exercises.
In the UK on average, successful pupils have had 47hrs of lessons with an approved driving instructor and 20hrs private driving practise, however, this can vary greatly between pupils.
1. Preparing for Test Day
The test will take place in the driving school car. On the day of the test, I will collect you at least an hour before your scheduled appointment, giving us plenty of time to get to the test centre and go over any questions you have. Around 10 minutes before your appointment time, we will park at the test centre and enter the waiting room. The examiner will introduce themselves, and will ask to see your driving licence (both parts), and possibly your theory test certificate and booking confirmation
2. Beginning the Test
The test will begin in the car park with an eyesight check - you will be asked to read a number plate from around 20 meters. You will then be asked two safety questions about the car - your instructor will have fully prepared you on these.
3. The Driving Test
After getting in the car, you will be asked to move off and follow the directions given by the examiner. The driving part of the test will last around 40 minutes, starting and finishing in the test centre car park, and will include one reversing maneuver and a range of road and traffic conditions. It's important that you drive as you normally would. You can make up to 15 driving mistakes and still pass the test. However, if you make a serious or dangerous mistake you will fail (but the test is likely to continue).
4. Driving Companions
You are allowed to take anybody over the age of 16 with you on the test, but they must not interfere with the test in any way. It is often helpful to have the instructor in the car, so if you don't pass the test this time it is easier to work on the necessary improvements - however, this is entirely up to you on the day.
5. Receiving Your Result
At the end of the test, the examiner will evaluate your performance and inform you whether you have passed. If you pass, you will receive a pass certificate, and the examiner can arrange for your new licence to be sent to you automatically. If you don't pass, listen carefully to the debrief provided by the examiner to understand which areas need improvement. You can retake the practical test after a minimum of 10 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I book my practical test?
Due to the massive backlog which we have seen since covid, we recommend booking your practical as soon as you have passed your theory test. We will work to this deadline but if there are unforeseen circumstances which mean you won't be ready, we have a number of slots we will be able to move it to.