Theory Test: What will happen
Before you can book your practical driving test, you need to pass your theory test. This test is made up of two parts; the multiple choice part and the hazard perception part. To obtain a pass you must pass both parts at the same sitting.
What will happen at your test:
When you arrive at the test centre, you will be asked to show both parts of your driving licence (the photocard and paper counterpart). If you have the old style licence without a photo, you will be required to bring a valid passport. If you don't have the correct documents you won't be allowed to take the test and you will lose your fee.
You will then be asked to put all your personal belongings in one of the lockers provided. You will not be allowed to take anything into the test room with you.
When ready, you will be taken into the test room. This room will contain many computers with others also taking their test. Do not comunicate with or disturb any of these people. An assistant will show you to your computer and explain all you need to know to get started. If you are not sure about anything, don't be afraid to ask.
When you log on to the computer you will be given instructions on how the test works and, if you choose, you can have a practice session of the multiple choice questions. When the practice ends, the test will begin.
Multiple Choice:
For each question you are asked, several answer options are given. All you need to do is click the correct answer - sometimes more than one answer will be required. You will be asked 50 questions and you will need to get a minimum of 43 right in order to pass. You have 57 minutes, which is plenty of time, so relax. You can navigate between questions and you can flag questions you would like to go back to at the end if you wish - provided you have time left.
When you have finished the multiple choice, you can have a three minute break until the hazard perception part begins.
After the break you will be shown a short video clip explaining how the hazard perception part works.
Hazard Perception:
For this part you will be presented with 14 video clips which feature every day road scenes from the perspective of the driver - in other words, the camera is looking forward from the car. In each clip there is at least one developing hazard, but one of the clips will feature two developing hazards - you have no way of knowing which clip this will be, so even if you think you have found the hazard, keep concentrating in case there is another.
To understand what a developing hazard is, either click the lesson 'Defensive Driving' or ask your driving instructor.
When you see a developing hazard, click the mouse, then click again as the hazard developes. Do NOT just randomly click the button in the hope you will do it at the right time - the computer will detect this and invalidate that clip.
Finishing the test:
When the test has finished you will be invited to complete a customer survey. This is entirely voluntary and will have no impact on the result of your test. When you have finished you can leave the test room. You will then be given the result of your test by one of the assistants.
For more information on the theory test and to book a test online, click 'here'.
To try a mock theory test from those who set the real thing, click 'here'.
