|
Since 3rd of September 2007 you will be
asked to answer 50 multiple-choice questions, followed by
a test of your hazard perception skills. You will need to
pass both parts of the theory test at the same sitting to
obtain your theory test pass certificate.
Why has the 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 whilst they are still learning to
drive.
What is the multiple-choice
part of the 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 or more questions correctly in 57
minutes. 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.
How do candidates with
special needs sit the test?
Candidates who have special needs, which are not met by any
of the facilities listed below, may apply to have longer than
the standard time of 40 minutes to take the multiple-choice
part. Such requests should be made when booking the test.
Facilities for candidates
with special needs include:
- for car and motorcycle candidates, using a headset to listen
to the test being read in one of 20 other languages. This
will help candidates who do not understand or read English,
or who wish to take the test in their first language.
These languages include Welsh.- large goods
vehicle drivers and passenger carrying vehicle drivers can
use a headset to listen to the test being read in English
and Welsh. - for all candidates, using a headset to listen
to the test being read in English. This helps those with dyslexia
and other reading difficulties. - an on-screen video of the
test being signed in British Sign Language for car and motorcycle
candidates who are deaf or have other hearing difficulties.
In Preparation for the new theory test It is
strongly recommended that all candidates prepare thoroughly
for the test. Suggested reading matter includes 'The Highway
Code' and 'Know Your Traffic Signs'. In addition to this there
are official theory test books and CD-Roms containing the
multiple choice questions. The CD-Roms show screens similar
to those used in the multiple choice part of the test and
information about hazard perception. There is also a DVD or
video and booklet package called 'RoadSense', which is the
official guide to hazard perception for all drivers and riders.
Being a safe driver with good hazard perception skills means
being able to use speed correctly, keeping the correct distance
between yourself and other road users, scanning the road effectively,
anticipating and planning for potential hazards. All these
skills can be taught effectively. You should prepare with
a professional instructor as part of a structured programme
of on-road tuition, covering the recommended syllabus.
Booking your theory test
Master Card, Visa, Switch, Delta, Solo
and Electron are accepted.
Application forms are available from test centres, Approved
Driving Instructors or the link below.
Forms need to be sent with a cheque, postal order or credit
or debit card details
|
