Why has the theory test changed?

Each year around 3,400 people are killed on Britain’s roads. New drivers take much longer to recognise hazardous situations than more experienced drivers, and many driving test candidates have poor scanning and anticipation skills.

These skills are vital for safe driving. By introducing the new hazard perception part to the test, we hope to encourage more drivers to develop hazard perception skills while they are still learning to drive.

What is the multiple choice part of the theory test?

This part consists of 50 multiple choice questions covering a wide range of driving topics. By touching the screen, you select an answer, or answers, from the selection shown. To pass you must answer 43 (out of 50) or more questions correctly in the allocated time.

You have the option of working through a practice session lasting up to 15 minutes to get used to the system before starting the actual test.

How does the hazard perception part work?

After a break of up to three minutes, the hazard perception part will start. You will be shown a tutorial video first. This uses sample footage with a sound track (headphones supplied), which will explain how to complete this part of the test. You may repeat the tutorial once more if you wish.

The test consists of 14 video clips, each lasting about one minute. The clips feature various types of hazards, such as vehicles, pedestrians and road conditions. You should respond by pressing a mouse button as soon as you see a hazard developing that may result in the driver having to take some action, such as changing speed or direction. The earlier the developing hazard is spotted, and a response made, the higher the score.

Candidates can score up to five marks on each hazard and the test contains 15 scoreable hazards.

The pass mark for this part of the test is 44 out of 75 for car drivers and motorcycle riders.