HAZARD PERCEPTION TEST

How the hazard perception test works:

When you have finished the first section of your theory test (multiple choice questions), the test will move on to the hazard perception section. You’ll be presented with a series of 1-minute-long videos that will look as if you’re driving the car and looking out the front windscreen. Each video will show 1-2 developing hazards, and you’ll need to click on the screen when you identify them. You’re marked on identifying the hazard and responding quickly – you can’t continuously click on the video, otherwise you will score 0 on that video clip.

What is a developing hazard?

These can vary and do not have to involve another car. Common examples you may see during your test are:

• Pedestrians crossing the road unexpectedly
• Vehicles changing lanes without signalling
• Cyclists swerving into your lane
• Road conditions like potholes, debris, or unexpected obstacles

Practising using example videos can help you become familiar with what a hazard is and what it is not. Here is an example of a hazard perception clip:

What score do I need to pass the hazard perception test?

To pass the test, you must achieve a minimum of 44 out of 75 points. You can earn up to five points for each correctly identified danger. The faster you respond, the higher your score. Missing hazards, responding too late, or clicking excessively without reason can reduce your score.

This ensures that you can identify risks quickly and take appropriate action, as expected in real driving conditions.

How to prepare for the hazard perception test?

The test is worth 50% of the total theory test, which means preparation is important. Practicing will help familiarise you with what to expect on the day and improve your reaction times.

In the test, each of the 14 clips contains at least one developing hazard. To prepare, it’s important to:

• Watch practice clips and simulate the real test environment.
• Focus on the roads ahead and anticipate potential hazards (e.g. parked cars that might move, pedestrians approaching a crossing, etc.).
• Respond promptly but not excessively; rapid and repeated clicking will be detected by the system and could result in a failure.

The Learn To Drive With RED app has a collection of hazard perception clips for users to practice identifying an upcoming hazard and reacting quickly to gain points. The app tells you how much you scored and what you missed to help improve on your next mock test.

Tips for taking your hazard perception test

Preparing for your hazard perception test can be a bit nerve-wracking, especially if it’s your first time. The key to passing is not only in recognising these hazards but also in reacting quickly and effectively. 

Here are some essential tips that will guide you through the process, improve your hazard awareness, and boost your chances of passing on your first attempt:

• Stay calm and focused: Remaining composed during the test will allow you to focus on spotting hazards effectively without getting flustered. 
• Anticipate potential hazards: Try to think like a driver. Look out for parked cars, children playing near the road, cyclists, and road signs. Being proactive will help you identify hazards before they fully develop. 
• Practice regularly: The more familiar you are with the test format and types of hazards, the better you’ll perform. Use online resources and apps to practice hazard perception clips

RED can help you in becoming more confident and prepared for your driving test with our Learn To Drive With RED app, which offers mock tests for hazard perception videos, as well as multiple choice questions.