The theory test explained

How to study for the theory test

The theory test for car and motorcycle drivers is made up of two parts taken at the same time – multiple choice and hazard perception. You must pass both parts to be successful. 

What do I have to do to pass the Theory Test?

For the multiple-choice test, you will be required to answer 50 questions covering topics that include alertness, attitude, safety, road signs, and much more.

You will be allocated 57 minutes to complete the first part of your Theory Test and you must get at least 43 questions correct to pass.

Before the Theory Test begins you’ll be given full instructions on how the test works. It’s important to listen carefully so you know what to expect and can react accordingly.

You also have the option of going through a practice session of the multiple-choice questions to get used to the layout of the test.

If you choose to do this, your real Theory Test will begin at the end of your practice session.

The current pass rate is only 47.3%, meaning that over half of everyone who takes the Theory Test is failing it!

This is why it’s so important to thoroughly revise and practise!

What sort of questions will I be asked?

You’ll be asked questions taken from the 14 official question categories set by the DVSA.

These are; Accidents, Alertness, Attitude, Documents, Hazard Awareness, Motorway Rules, Other Types of Vehicle, Road and Traffic Signs, Rules of the Road, Safety and Your Vehicle, Safety Margins, Vehicle Handling and Vulnerable Road Users.

In total there are 730 Driving Theory Test questions for car drivers that you could be asked, so it’s wise to get in as much practise as you possibly can!

How can I pass my car Theory Test the first time?

The multiple choice questions in the theory test are based on 3 books

The highway code

Know your traffic signs

Driving – the essential skills

We recommend reading these books and using a good online theory site to practice and see how much you’ve learnt.

Top Tip: Avoid just testing yourself on the MOCK tests section, because the questions  are random and you are not getting questions from all categories.

With some of the online theory test practice sites you can test yourself in the main categories and find which you are good at, and those you are not.

Therefore working to strengthen your knowledge in the categories you are weakest in.

Good paid practice sites:

Theory test pro = https://www.theorytestpro.co.uk/student/

Driving test success = https://www.drivingtestsuccess.com

There are others but these are the two most common ones.

You can also use Free official gov.uk site to practice for your theory test and purchase the paid version here: https://www.gov.uk/take-practice-theory-test

Where do I go to do the theory test?

Find your nearest theory test centre: https://www.gov.uk/find-theory-test-centre

How do I book my theory test? 

Book your theory test at: https://www.gov.uk/book-theory-test