Complete Guide to the UK Driving Theory Test
What is the Theory Test?
The theory test is an official exam you must pass before booking your practical driving test in the UK. It checks that you:
-
Understand road rules and safe driving practices
-
Know how to identify and respond to hazards on the road
-
Can spot hazards before they become dangerous
The test is administered by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and applies to all learner drivers before their practical test.
The structure
The theory test has two parts that you must pass on the same day:
1. Multiple choice questions
- 50 questions on topics such as road signs, rule, safety and driver behaviour.
- You’ll have 57 minutes to complete this section.
2. Hazard perception test
- You’ll watch 14 video clips on a computer.
- Each clip includes at least one developing hazard – something that would make you change speed or direction.
- One clip has two hazards, giving a total of 15 hazards to spot.
- You score points for clicking as a hazard develops.
Pass Marks & Pass Rate
Multiple Choice Questions
43/50 Correct
Hazard Perception
44/75 Points
Current UK theory test pass rate
45-46%
What you need to learn
To succeed, you'll need knowledge in these key areas:
Multiple Choice Topics
road signs
and
road markings
Rule of the road
Safety Margins
Alertness & Hazard Awareness
vehicle handling and safety checks
attitude and driver behaviour
Vulnerable road users
traffic laws and penalties
Hazard Perception Skills
Spot developing hazards early
Understand what makes something a hazard
Anticipate possible actions by other road users
Time you mouse click to score as the hazard develops, not just as it appears
Training resources
The Highway Code is the foundation of safe driving in the UK. It explains the rules, laws and advice that all road users must follow, including drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists. It covers road signs, markings, signals, speed limits, priority rules and safe driving behaviour. A strong understanding of the Highway Code is essential for both the theory test and real-world driving.
Know Your Traffic Signs focuses specifically on the meaning of road signs, road markings and traffic signals used across the UK. This book helps learners quickly recognise and understand warning signs, regulatory signs and information signs, ensuring they can respond correctly and safely while driving. Traffic signs are a key part of the theory test and everyday driving.
