Theory test explained: everything you need to know
Everything you need to know about your driving theory test
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Your driving theory test is one the of the first hurdles you’ll need to get get over on your way to a full UK driving licence – and it can feel a bit daunting.
From the initial excitement of applying for your provisional licence, to taking your first driving lesson, and passing your tests – learning to drive can be a bit nerve-wracking.
Luckily, your car theory test can be a simple process as long as you’re prepared and know what to expect.
Our guide explains all you need to know about the UK driving theory test to help get you ready.
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Booking your theory test
Once you’ve got your provisional driving licence and started your revision, it’s time to book your car theory test.
How to book a theory test
You can book your driving theory test on the gov.uk website using the online booking system.
You’ll need your UK driving licence number, email address, and a credit or debit card for the online payment.
You must have lived in England, Wales or Scotland for at least 185 days in the last 12 months before you’re eligible to take the test.
The online booking system is simple and it’s easy to schedule your slot.
You’ll be given the option to flag if you need extra support for your theory test, such as a voiceover or British Sign Language support.
Once you’ve entered your details and notified of any extra support you might need, you’ll be able to book a date for your theory at a test centre that suits you.
What age can you take your theory test?
You can book a driving theory test from the age of 17 in the UK.
And don’t forget that you can apply for a provisional licence up to three months before your 17th birthday so you can get prepped early.
If you want to take your CBT motorcycle and moped training, you can be slightly younger at 16 years old.
You can also start learning to drive (including taking your theory test) from the age of 16 if you receive the higher mobility components of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
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When can you book your theory test?
You can book your theory test as soon as you have your provisional licence, but you can’t take the test until you turn 17.
This gives you time to get prepared, and you can even take your test on your 17th birthday if you fancy it!
How long does it take to book a theory test?
Booking your theory test is quick and shouldn’t take more than ten minutes if you have all your details ready.
You might need to wait to find a test at the time and test centre you prefer, so it can be a good idea to book a date further in advance and check back for cancellations of preferable slots.
Taking your theory test
So, you’ve booked the test and have your licence ready, but what exactly can you expect? It’s important to know what’s coming before you go into your theory test so you can prepare.
What’s included in the theory test?
The driving theory test is made up of two sections:
Multiple choice section
Part one is the multiple choice section where you’ll be asked questions about different areas of driving theory.
This can include road scenario case studies, identifying road signs, and other driving practises.
Three of the questions include a short video where you’ll be asked questions about the driving featured.
You’ll have 57 minutes to answer 50 questions, and you’ll need to get at least 43 out of 50 to pass.
Hazard perception section
The other section on the theory test is the hazard perception video test. You’ll watch 14 video clips that contain at least one hazard, and you’ll need to click on your mouse as soon as the hazard starts to develop.
You can score up to five points for each developing hazard. You won't lose points for clicking and getting it wrong, but you can’t fool the test by just clicking continuously throughout.
To pass the hazard perception section of your theory test, you need to score 43 points out of a possible 75.
How long does a theory test last?
The theory test is made up of different timed sections. The multiple choice section lasts 57 minutes and the hazard perception lasts 20 minutes.
There’s also the option of a 15-minute practise section and a three-minute break.
What do I need to bring to my theory test?
You’ll need to take your UK provisional photo licence to your theory test, or your paper licence plus a valid passport.
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How many questions in a theory test?
There are 50 multiple choice questions in the theory test, plus the 14 videos to watch in the hazard perception section.
What’s the pass mark for a theory test?
The pass mark for the UK theory test is 43 out of 50 for multiple choice, and 44 out of 75 for hazard perception. You’ll need to pass both sections to pass the full test.
How to revise for theory test
The driving theory test is based on three books – The Highway Code, ‘Know Your Traffic Signs’, and ‘Driving – The Essential Skills’. All of these books will be helpful for revision.
The gov.uk website also has a theory test kit that you can download or use via its app.
It also has downloadable traffic sign flashcards that are helpful, or you can make your own.
How long should you revise for theory test?
How long you should revise for your theory test will differ from person to person. Generally, about 10 hours of revision leading up the test will helpful.
There’s no harm in doing more than this, so just keep going until you feel confident.
What’s the pass rate for theory test?
The total driving theory pass rate for April 2023 to March 2024 was 45.2%.
How to reschedule theory test
You can reschedule your theory test by visiting the gov.uk website. You’ll need to give at least three full working days’ notice for changing or cancelling your test, otherwise you’ll need to pay for the test again.
After your theory test
Now you’ve finished your driving theory test, what’s next?
If you fail your theory test, when can you retake it?
Sorry to hear it! If you’ve failed your test, you’ll need to wait at least 10 days until you can take it again.
How long is my theory test valid for?
Your theory test is valid for two years from the date you passed, so you need to retake it if you don’t pass your practical test within this time.
When do you get your theory test results?
You’ll get your results straight after you finish the test at the centre. They’ll give you a printed letter with your score and confirmation on whether it was a pass or fail.
What to do after passing theory test
You should focus on passing your practical driving test once you’ve passed your theory, but still keep up on your theory knowledge.
Revisit the Highway Code and your revision notes while you’re prepping for your practical to make sure you’re safe on the roads.
And it never hurts to keep up to date on the rules of the road well after you’ve passed your practical driving test!
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