Book Online

PASS YOUR DRIVING THEORY TEST

Everything you need to know about the Driving Theory Test. Start studying today and pass with confidence!

Download our app

What is the Driving Theory Test?

 

The Driving Theory Test is set by the DVSA and is a mandatory, computer-based assessment designed to evaluate a learner driver’s knowledge of essential driving concepts, road rules, traffic signs, and safe driving practices.

This test is an essential first step for learner drivers in the UK, as it provides the foundational knowledge required for safe and responsible driving. Passing the theory test is required before you’re allowed to book your practical driving test, which assesses your actual driving skills.

About the Driving Theory Test

The driving theory test consists of two sections: a multiple-choice test and a hazard perception section. You will need to pass both parts of the test to pass. 

The multiple choice section

The multiple-choice section includes 50 questions about the Highway Code. Before this part of the test, you will receive instructions on how the test works and be given the chance to do a practice question. 

The hazard perception section

The hazard perception section of the test features 14 video clips including a variety of different road scenes. In each clip, you will need to identify developing hazards as quickly as possible using the click of a mouse. A developing hazard is defined as something that would cause you to take action such as changing speed or direction e.g. a person stepping into the road. There are 15 hazards in total and you can score five points for each if you click the mouse as soon as the hazard starts to develop. Before this part of the test begins you will be shown a video with instructions on how it works. 

Download our app

Pass requirements

The pass requirements for the driving theory test are split into the two sections:

  • Multiple choice: Score at least 43 out of 50.
  • Hazard Perception: Score at least 44 out of 75 points.

If you fail one part, you must retake both sections, with a 3-day waiting period before retaking the test.

How long is the theory test

Allow at least 2 hours from start to finish, including registration, practice questions, and receiving your results. The multiple choice section takes up to 57 minutes and the Hazard Perception takes 20 minutes.

Booking and costs

You can book your theory test online at GOV.UK. The test costs £23 per attempt (plus a provisional licence fee if not yet obtained). If you require any special assistance, you can request extended time and other accommodations are available upon request when booking, with proof provided to the DVSA.

Theory Driving Test

Can I take the theory test before I start my lessons?

Yes! You can take your theory test anytime after you turn 17 and a lot of people actually choose to take it before taking practical lessons. This helps boost confidence and ensures a better understanding of the rules of the road. At RED we recommend taking your theory test as soon as possible. However, it’s worth noting that you must have your provisional licence to book the theory test. You can apply for your provisional licence up to 3 months before you turn 17 – you can find more information on applying for provisional licences here.

How to prepare for your theory test

A lot of people think the theory test is easy. However, pass rates have steadily fallen in recent years and the overall pass rate is probably lower than you might expect. That’s why it’s so important to get plenty of theory test practice to give yourself the best chance of passing the first time. 

Our friendly instructors will help you with your theory training during your lessons and ensure you have the knowledge to pass. Also, be sure to read The Highway Code, which can be found online, or study ‘The Official DVSA Guide to Driving – The Essential Skills’, which is available in most good bookshops.

Sign up for the RED’s Complete Driving Theory app where you can start your preparation for your theory test and take mock theory tests.

Download our app

HAVE YOU PASSED YOUR THEORY TEST YET?

OUR COMPLETE THEORY TRAINING APP HAS EVERYTHING YOU NEED

Tired of flipping through dull textbooks and struggling with complicated rules? Say hello to stress-free learning with our cutting-edge Driving Theory App! Designed to make learning fun, effective, and convenient. Get the knowledge you need to pass first-time!

  • Complete set of DVSA questions, hazard perception clips and video case studies
  • Personalised daily training plan
  • Timed mock tests
  • Road signs game
  • Exclusive videos

When should you start revising?

Preparation is everything. At RED we recommend studying for around 8 weeks before your theory test since there is lots of content to cover. Starting early allows you to break your learning up into manageable chunks and enables you to complete the training in just a few minutes each day.

The length of revision truly varies depending on individual learning styles and prior knowledge. However, here’s a general guideline for a balanced approach:

  • Start early: Aim to start your revision at least 8-10 weeks before your planned test date. This ensures you have sufficient time to delve into topics without feeling pressed for time.
  • Daily dedication: Commit a set amount of time each day, ideally 20-30 minutes. This consistent approach promotes retention and minimises last-minute stress. However, even 15 minutes per day is enough to make progress if you start early enough. 
  • Mock test assessments: After 4 weeks, undertake a mock test to assess your readiness. This will highlight areas needing more emphasis. Plan at least one mock test every week as the test date approaches. This will not only boost confidence but also improve your time management skills.
  • Avoid cramming: Whilst it might be tempting to cram as much information as possible in the last days before your test, it’s not advisable. Instead, give priority to rest to ensure you’re at your peak on test day.

The driving theory test is the first step towards obtaining your driving licence. Success requires a mix of timely revision, practice, and using the right strategies. 

Ready to get started?

How to Revise for Theory Test

 

Structured study

Understand the Syllabus: Familiarise yourself with the topics, such as road signs, safety measures, hazard perception, etc. Consistent Practice: Regularly take mock tests to become accustomed to the test format. This also helps pinpoint your strengths and areas that require more focus.

Diversify your learning materials

The Highway Code and ‘The Official DVSA Guide to Driving – The Essential Skills’ are the backbone of learning resources. However whilst these offer the exact content you’ll be asked, other apps and websites are especially designed to help you pass.  Importantly our RED app is science-based in its approach. It is specifically designed to tailor your learning to spend more time covering topics you’re less comfortable with along with mock tests to reinforce your knowledge.

Active engagement

Flashcards: These are great for memorising road signs and rules. Write the name/sign on one side and its explanation or meaning on the reverse. The RED Complete Driving Theory app contains a flashcard section if you’d prefer a digital version.  Discuss concepts with your friends, family and driving instructor to improve your understanding.

Hazard perception practice

Don’t forget the hazard perception section! Engage regularly with hazard perception clips. These hone your reflexes and judgement and prepare you for real-world experiences on the road. Practise the format of the hazard perception test so that you’re learning when to respond to hazards, and importantly, not over-clicking.

Little and often

Study little and often: Even 15 minutes per day is enough to make good progress over time.  Plan weekly reviews of what you’ve learnt. This consolidates information and enhances memory retention.

 

What to expect on the day of your driving theory test

 

You should aim to arrive at the test centre around 15 minutes before the start of your test. You will be asked to present your provisional driving licence to sign in and you will be provided with a designed locker to store your (switched off) mobile phone.

Please note: Please remember your provisional licence. If you can’t present this at the test centre, you won’t be allowed to sit the test and you’ll lose your fee.

Once you’ve signed in, you will be shown a document outlining the rules of the test. When you indicate you’re happy with how the test works you will take a seat at an assigned computer and be given the option to take part in a 15-minute practice session. We recommend taking this practice opportunity as it will give you the chance to get used to the computer and settle into the test centre environment comfortably. 

After completing the practice questions, the test will commence. Starting with the multiple-choice questions, you will be asked to select the right answer from several possible answers on the screen. If you aren’t sure of a question you will have the option to ‘flag’ the question and come back to it later. You can also go back to questions to review and change your answers if you wish.  

Once you’ve completed the multiple-choice section, you will move on to the hazard perception part of the test where you will be asked to indicate developing hazards using your mouse. You will only get one attempt at each video and unlike the previous section, you will not be able to go back and review or change your answers. 

And that’s it! When you’ve completed all of the questions you will find out whether you’ve passed at the test centre.   

If you’re sitting your theory test soon, we wish you the best of luck!

FAQs for theory test

What do I need to do after you pass your theory test?

When you pass your theory test you will be given a pass certificate number at the test centre. This is valid for 2 years from the date of your test. It’s important to note that you will need to pass your practical driving test within this time, otherwise, you will have to pass your theory test again.

Do you have to pass your theory test before your driving test?
When can you book your theory test?

What to do after you pass your theory test

When you pass your theory test you will be given a pass certificate number at the test centre. This is valid for  2 years from the date of your test. It’s important to note that you will need to pass your practical driving test within this time, otherwise you will have to pass your theory test again.

What to do after you pass your theory test

When you pass your theory test you will be given a pass certificate number at the test centre. This is valid for  2 years from the date of your test. It’s important to note that you will need to pass your practical driving test within this time, otherwise you will have to pass your theory test again.

Book online

Learner Insurance

The DVSA states that, on average, it takes 45 hours of professional instruction and 22 hours of private practice to learn to drive. RED’s Learner insurance is a great way to gain those extra recommended hours.

Find out more

You may also be interested in…

Learn to Drive with RED app

Learn to drive with the RED app

Download our app

Learning to drive is now in the palm of your hand. Download our app to book lessons, practise theory test questions and hazard perception.

Download our app
Driving Theory Test

How to book your driving theory test

Find out more

Booking a driving theory test in the UK is an essential step in obtaining your full driving licence. Find out how to book your driving theory test and progress in your driving journey.

Find out more

Theory test case studies

Learn more

The UK driving theory test case studies section is designed to assess your ability to apply your knowledge of road rules and safe driving practices in real-world scenarios. Here is how to practice with RED.

Learn more