Everything you need to know about the UK Driving Theory Test

Everything you need to know about the UK Driving Theory Test

We’ve been providing guidance and advice about the Driving Theory Test for 22 years, so we thought it would be helpful to answer some of the most popular questions we’ve been asked by our learner driver community.

The Driving Theory Test was introduced on the 1st of July 1997 and is the first step in becoming a full UK driving licence holder.

You must pass both parts of the Theory Test (the multiple-choice part AND the Hazard Perception Test) before you can book your Practical Driving Test.

Who sets the Driving Theory Test?

The Theory Test is set by the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA); a government body responsible for driver education.

You shouldn’t confuse this with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), which is responsible for the issuing of drivers’ licences and your Provisional Driving Licence.

How much does the Driving Theory Test cost?

The current Theory Test fee for car drivers in the UK is £23.

See our other blog for more information on test costs.

Where do I sit my Theory Test?

You will sit your test in a designated official DVSA Theory Test centre.

How is the Theory Test taken?

The Theory Test is taken on a computer at an official DVSA test centre and consists of two individual tests which must both be taken on the same day.

The first is a multiple-choice test based on the rules of the road, as set by the DVSA, and the second is a Hazard Perception Test.

What is the pass mark for the car Theory Test?

The current pass mark for learner car drivers in Great Britain and Northern Ireland is 43 or more out of 50.

For the Hazard Perception section of the test, you need to score 44 out of 75.

The current pass rate is only 47.3%, meaning that over half of everyone who takes the Theory Test WILL FAIL!

This is why it’s so important to thoroughly revise and practise!


How do I pass my car Theory Test the first time?

There is a simple answer to this question. Revise, revise, revise!

You can revise for the motorcycle and car Theory Test using the award-winning Driving Test Success 4 in 1 App where 9 out of 10 learners pass the first time!

Named Apple UK’s No.1 paid downloaded app for 2019, it is available for iOS and Android devices for only £4.99!!

What to do after you pass!
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