Test Information

The UK driving test is made up of 2 separate parts. The first is a computer based theory test and the second is a car based practical test. The first thing you need to do when you learn to drive is pass your theory test as you won’t be able to sit your practical test until you have done so.

The Theory Test

The theory test is made up of two separate parts. The first part is a multiple choice test of knowledge and the second part is a video based hazard perception test.

The multiple choice test is made up of 50 questions. To pass the test you will need to obtain a minimum of 43 out of 50.

The hazard perception test is video based where you will see some driving scenarios. On the video clip there will be a hazard and you will get graded on how quickly you notice the hazard. The test is made up of 14 separate clips one of which will have 2 separate hazards. The scoring is rated from 1-5 depending on how quickly you react. To pass this test you will need to get 44 out of 75.

You sit both of these tests at the same time one after the other. If you fail either of the tests you will fail both and have to re-sit both tests. You will get the result of your test upon completion.

The current cost of the theory test is £25.00 – Oct 2014 then to £23 – Oct 2015

The Practical Test

The practical test is a test of your driving ability. To pass this test you will need to be able to prove to a driving examiner that you are a safe and competent driver.

The first part of your driving test will be an eyesight test. You have to be able to read a new style number plate from 20 metres or an old style number plate from 20.5 metres. If you can’t do this you won’t be able to do your test.

The driving test will last for roughly 40 minutes in which time you will be required to drive round a test route in a safe manner. You will also be required to perform one reverse manoeuvres picked at random and a 10 minute independent drive. The independent drive will consist of either following a list of directions given or following signs or a combination of both.You may also be asked to perform an emergency stop and you may also go onto a dual carriageway.

To pass this test the maximum amount of minor faults you can get is 15 however if you get any serious or dangerous fault you will fail your test. You will get the result of your test as soon as you get back to the driving centre.

The current cost of the practical test is £62 on week days and £75 for weekends.