How the car theory test works
The test has two parts, taken one after the other. You have to pass both.
| Multiple choice | 50 questions in 57 minutes. 47 are on their own and 3 are about one short video. Pass mark: 43 out of 50. |
|---|---|
| Hazard perception | 14 video clips, each scored up to 5 points. One clip has two hazards. Pass mark: 44 out of 75. |
| Cost | £23 |
| Bring | Your photocard driving licence |
| Pass lasts | 2 years, to pass your practical test |
10 tips to pass first time
- Understand the answer, don't memorise it. The real test can word a question differently. If you know why the answer is right, you'll still get it.
- Practise every topic. There are 14 topics, from safety margins to motorway rules. Don't skip the dull ones: they're questions too.
- Find your weak spots. Track which topics you get wrong and go back to them. That's where the marks are.
- Learn stopping distances. They come up a lot. On a wet road they at least double, and on ice they can be ten times longer. Try the stopping distance calculator
- Read every word of the question. Watch for words like not, most and first. They change the answer.
- Use the flag button. Unsure? Flag it, move on and come back at the end. You have plenty of time.
- Take timed mock tests. Practise 50 questions in 57 minutes until 43+ feels easy.
- Click when a hazard starts to develop. In hazard perception you score more the earlier you respond, once the hazard begins to develop. A parked car is just a potential hazard. A parked car with its reversing lights on is developing.
- Don't click wildly. Clicking in a constant pattern or too often scores zero for that clip.
- Book when you're scoring well. Wait until you're passing mock tests comfortably, not just scraping 43.
Try some questions now
Our free theory test practice has 14 questions, one from each topic, with an explanation for every answer. No sign-up needed.
Practise with DriveBox LearnLab
LearnLab is the theory test app that explains every answer. Practise every topic, focus on your weak spots and take timed mock tests until your test-readiness score says you're ready.
Questions
How many questions are in the car theory test?
50 multiple-choice questions in 57 minutes. You need 43 out of 50 to pass that part.
What's the pass mark for hazard perception?
44 out of 75. There are 14 video clips, each worth up to 5 points, and one clip has two hazards.
How much does the theory test cost?
The car theory test costs £23.
How long does a theory test pass last?
Your pass certificate lasts 2 years. If you don't pass your practical test in that time, you have to take the theory test again.
What do I need to bring?
Your photocard driving licence. Without it you won't be allowed to take the test.