You must pass your theory test before you can book your practical driving test. It has two parts, and you need to pass both at the same sitting.
Part 1: multiple-choice questions
You answer 50 multiple-choice questions on a computer, covering topics like road signs, rules of the road, vehicle safety and hazard awareness. The pass mark is 43 out of 50.
Part 2: hazard perception
You watch a series of video clips filmed from a driver's point of view and click when you see a developing hazard — something that would make you change speed or direction. The earlier you spot it, the more points you score. The pass mark is 44 out of 75.
How to prepare
- Study the Highway Code and the official DVSA revision materials
- Do regular mock tests until you are consistently scoring well above the pass mark
- Practise hazard perception clips — clicking too often or in a pattern can score zero for a clip
- Talk through what you are learning during your driving lessons
Book on GOV.UK: book your theory test.
After you pass
Your theory test pass certificate is valid for 2 years. You need to pass your practical test within that time, or you will have to take the theory test again. Find out what happens on the practical test.