THEORY TEST

Unless you have a full driving licence from another group you will have to pass the Theory Test before you can apply for your practical driving test. You should have a reasonable knowledge of such things as road safety, car maintenance, road signs and signals, documents, first aid, accidents and road procedure.

To apply for the Theory Test, you should complete the application form, which is available from your driving instructor or the Driving Test Centre This is then posted to the Driving Standards Agency (address is on the form) or you can book a test by telephone on 0870 01 01 372, a debit/credit card is required to make the required payment. (This is most convenient as you can arrange a test to suit your free time). When booking by phone you should have your debit/credit card and provisional driving licence number ready. You can also book online at the DSA's website

The theory test costs £21.50 and is valid for 2 years from date of passing the test. You must pass your practical driving test within the two-year period; otherwise you will need to resit the theory test.

You are allowed 40 minutes to complete the test, which consists of 35 questions, of which you must answer 30 questions correctly to pass the test. This should not be a problem providing you have done a reasonable amount of studying. Most candidates find the time more than sufficient.

There is also a "Hazard Perception" test now where you have to recognise and react to a hazard as it appears on the screen. Your driving instructor will help you with the preperation for this part of the test, plus you can purchase a DVD (Roadsense) from the DSA or other CD's to practice with, which will help you as well.

Candidates are allowed approx. 15 minutes to get used to the system, and staff will be on hand to help. One question will appear on screen at a time, and you can go backwards and forwards through the questions. You can correct any question you answer if you wish. Once the test is over you will be informed of the result of your test before you leave the test centre.

A number of books are available from the HMSO Stationary Office and several High street stores. Your instructor will advise of which books are best for your particular purpose, and they can also be ordered from him if required.