TESTS

Theory Test
The theory test is in two parts. The first is a computerised touch screen test in which you have to select the correct answer from a number of choices. There are 50 questions and you need to get 43 of the questions correct to pass. The second part is called the hazard perception test. You will be shown a set of 14 video clips of driving hazards and asked to click the mouse button as soon as you spot a hazard. Out of a possible 75 you will need to score 44 to pass. You have to pass both parts of the theory test at the same sitting in order to pass.

You can apply for the test:-
  • in writing, by completing an application form available from theory test centres, driving instructors or the theory test booking line. The number of the booking line is 0870 010 1372 in England
  • by phone on 0870 010 1372 using a credit or debit card
  • by fax on 0870 010 4372 (not in Northern Ireland)
  • online at www.dsa.gov.uk

The fee at the moment for the theory test is £28.50


The practical test
You cannot take the practical test until you have passed the theory test unless you are exempt (see under heading The theory test). The practical test will test your ability to exercise adequate control of your vehicle and normally lasts 40 minutes.

The practical test also includes two questions on vehicle safety, designed to make sure that you know how to check the safety of your vehicle. Topics covered are, tyres, brakes, fluids, lights, reflectors, direction indicators, and horns.

If you fail, or do not take the practical test within two years of having passed the theory test, you will have to pass the theory test again before you can apply for a practical test.


Applying for a practical test
You will have to pay a fee for the test At the moment it costs £48.50/£58. It depends on the day that you take the test. Weekdays cost £48.50 with a Saturday costing £58. You can apply for the test by phone and pay by debit or credit card, or by post and pay by cheque or postal order.

You can choose to take the test at any test centre but often the choice is determined by the driving instructor and the availability of the instructor’s car for the test.

Normally, you have to give a minimum of three clear working days if you want to cancel your practical test without being charged a fee. If you are ill and have to cancel with less than three days notice, you should send the DSA a doctor’s certificate within ten days of the test day if you want to be given another date without having to pay the fee again. Otherwise, you must pay another fee. The only other acceptable reason for a cancellation without your having to pay another fee is family bereavement.

If the DSA cancels your test because of bad weather, you will be offered another date and will not have to pay a further fee.


Practical test result
At the end of the practical test, the examiner will tell you whether you have passed or not.

If you fail the practical test, you can only appeal on the grounds that the test was not conducted in accordance with regulations.

When you have passed the practical test, in England, Wales and Scotland, if you have a photocard provisional licence and your personal details have not changed, you can hand it over to the examiner, and a full licence will be issued to you automatically. Otherwise, you must apply to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) for your full licence within two years of the test date. If you don't do this, you will have to take the practical test (and the theory test) again.