Theory test changes
Wednesday 30 September 2009
If you’re planning to take your theory test, make sure you’re updated on the changes.
It’s a test
Before you can take that all important driving test, you’ll need to pass your theory test first.
The test is made up of two parts – the multiple choice and the hazard perception section. To get your licence you will need to pass both.
Check out this video from the Driving Standards Agency.
Step 1:- multiple choice test
Don’t panic about the test. It just takes a bit of revision, but not nearly as much as school or college exams!
On the day you’ll be given clear instructions on how the test works. If you really want to make sure you have the best possible chance of passing, you can opt for a practice session first.
The questions vary because they depend on the type of vehicle that you’re hoping to get a licence for. If your choice of wheels is a car then all your questions will be four-wheel related.
Questions will appear on the screen and you will be given a number of answers to choose from. This part of the test is touch screen so make sure you don’t use the mouse.
Pass rate
If your test is for a car or motorcycle licence, you’ll need to answer 43 out of 50 questions correctly. If your questions are based on lorries and buses, you’ll need to get 85 out of 100 correctly.
Recent changes
From September 2009, car and motorcyle multiple choice questions have been featuring a case study.
The case study is an example of a common scenario that you may have to deal with as a driver. Once the scene is set, the next five questions will focus around that.
Step 2:- hazard perception
For this part of the test you will be shown 14 different video clips. Each clip will show everyday road scenes but with a hazard that develops. It’s your job to press the mouse button every time you think a hazard appears.
If you’re thinking that you can just press the mouse button continuously so that you can’t miss the hazard – you’re wrong! Click the mouse too often and you will fail.
Pass rate
The pass rate for the cars and motorcyle hazard perception is 44 out of 45. The pass rate for lorries and buses is 50 out of 75.
It’s all over
You can leave the test room when you think you’ve got all your answers – or at least until your time runs out. You'll be gievn your results just a few minutes later. Eeek!
Good luck.
Ready to take the next step? Follow this guide on all things car-related.
