Your theory test must be completed prior to booking your practical test, as you need to quote the unique serial number from your certificate. However, it is possible to begin learning to drive as soon as you are legally able to drive on your provisional licence, without first passing the theory test. If you passed a theory test for a different category of vehicle, you will still need to take another theory and hazard perception for each new category applied for.

The current test involves two parts in one sitting, with a brief pause.

 
The two parts are: 

• 50 theory questions on all aspects of driving. The minimum requirement is 86% correct.
  
• Hazard Perception test, where you watch 14 video clips and identify when a hazard is developing. One clip has two 'developing'  hazards, although the others are limited to one 'developing' hazard in each clip, (you will not know which has two), so your full attention is required at all times, exactly as it is whilst driving.
  

Your theory test can be booked online via the web link, or by ringing the booking line, both at the foot of this page. Be warned; the phone line is often engaged, and has many menus. This tends to frustrate callers (including me)! Adding to this, is the fact that calls are accepted weekdays only, from 8.30am - 6pm. So computer is best (never thought I'd hear myself say that)!

There are many resources available from shops, both high street and Internet, of varying quality and cost. There are a couple that I have found to be better designed for revision purposes, so I would always advise that you check with me before purchasing any revision tools. Please also be aware that if you are borrowing a book from a friend or relative, it may be outdated, as the DSA regularly change their questions.

 For booking the theory test:

Telephone 0300 200 1122  or   click here  (Opens new window)