You need to pass both the Theory & Hazard Perception tests at the same sitting
The theory test
The theory test consists of 50 multiple choice questions. Each question is randomly selected from the DSA theory test question bank of 1000+ questions. New to the test is a Case study part which takes up 5 of your questions. To pass, you must answer 43 or more questions correctly within 57 minutes. After you have completed all the questions, you can go through them to check, this is advisable, as long as you have time. Then, you have the option to rest for up to 3 minutes, or go straight on to the Hazard Perception test.
Tips to pass: Study well in advance & use your driving instructor to help on areas you need. Don't just practice the questions, you need to get looking in the Highway Code to really get a good grounding in the knowledge needed. Ask friends who have done it for advice & they will also have study material to save you money!! Do your learning in small chunks & revise stuff you did last time, first.
The hazard perception test
The hazard perception test will show 14 one-minute video clips, each involving a hazard in a road condition, by pedestrians or road users.
There are 15 hazards to identify and you can score up to five points on each one. There are 14 clips, one of the clips has 2 hazards. You are scored on how quickly you identify them. The faster you identify a hazard, the higher you score. You can score up to 5 points for each hazard. You need to score at least 44 out of 75 to pass this test. Get some more information here. To prepare, why not buy the Hazard Perception DVD.
Tips to pass: Click when you see a hazard that might cause you to move or brake, but do this a few times as it develops, so you don't miss scoring. Don't click for no reason, or constantly, as you will lose your score for that clip.
The practical test
At your practical test, you will have 40 minutes to demonstrate everything you have learned in your driving lessons. You'll need to show you can drive competently and safely in all kinds of driving situations. You'll be asked to do two of the five reversing manoeuvres you've practiced with your instructor, possibly make an emergency stop and answer two vehicle safety check questions.
To pass, you will have to complete the test with no serious faults and less than 15 minor errors. The current national average practical pass rate is 43%, so it makes sense to be as prepared as possible, your instructor will help to advise you when you are ready for the test and also help you to understand the main reasons why people fail.
If you fail your practical test, but pass your theory, you need only sit the practical next time.
Tips to pass: Get plenty of practice in different situations. Not just the test routes. Remember it's a driving test not a maneuver test, you only do 2 manoeuvres. Mainly you will be driving & thats where most people tend to fail. Nerves can be a problem on the day. The examiner will help to put you at ease, but as long as you drive safely, you will pass.
Once you've passed
Drive safely & carefully. Studies show that 17-25 year olds are at a high risk of accidents. You will not become experienced until you have covered about 1000 hours of driving.
Become a more confident driver with Pass Plus and save money. Let Andy's Driver Training help to achieve this. Book your Pass Plus.
Consider taking further training to an advanced level, with us. Studies show that training to this level reduces the risk of an accident by up to 25%
Join an Advanced driving organization, like IAM or ROSPA. This could reduce your chance of an accident dramatically & give you life long skills to help deal with new & stressful situations in your stride.
