The Theory Test for Car Drivers and Motorcyclists was introduced in July 1996. It is designed to improve the safety of newly qualified riders and drivers by making them think carefully about the right attitudes needed to drive safely on today's busy roads.
The current cost of a theory test is £28.50 for car and motorcycle; and £32.00 for PCV & LGV.
Areas of assessment include:-
- alertness
- attitude
- safety and your vehicle
- safety margins
- hazard awareness
- vunerable road users
- other types of vehicles
- vehicle handling
- motorway rules
- rules of the road
- road & traffic signs
- documents
- accidents
- vehicle loading
The test is split into two parts. The first consists of a multiple choice question section. To pass this part you must answer 43 out of 50 questions correctly.The second part is the hazard perception test. The pass mark for this part of the test is 44 out of 75.Candidates must pass both parts of the test to obtain a test certificate.
To prepare properly for the Theory Test we strongly recommend that you study the books from which the questions are taken. These books, known as the source material, consist of The Highway Code, Know Your Traffic Signs and the appropriate Official DSA Theory Test Book for the vehicle category in which you are taking your test. Also available are the Official DSA Guide to Hazard Perception DVD, which will allow you to sit practice Hazard Perception tests and the Official DSA Theory Test CD-Rom for the vehicle category in which you are taking you test. Like the book the CD-Rom contains the full Theory Test question bank and also gives the opportunity to sit practice tests for the multiple choice part of the Theory Test.
The latest revision material is available from The Stationery Office, 16 Arthur Street Belfast BT1 4GD and all good bookshops.
When you take the theory test, you'll be asked some specific questions relating to the category of test being taken, as well as questions that apply to all road users.
You do not have to pass your theory test to learn how to drive. The DVA recommends that you have practical lessons before you take your theory test because you are likely to perform better if you have some driving experience. You can choose how to prepare yourself for your theory and practical driving tests. It is generally the case that learner drivers who have plenty of practice and who receive professional instruction perform well.
Theory Tests are available six days a week depending upon the demand. Weekday, evening and Saturday test sessions are available.
Candidates who have special needs may apply to have longer than the standard time to take their test.
Candidates who have dyslexia or other reading or learning difficulties may listen to the test through a head set. Voiceovers are also available in 20 languages other than English. A video of the test in British sign language is available for candidates who are deaf or hard of hearing. If you need any of these facilities please speak to the call centre when you ring to book your test.
[top]
The fee for the theory test for LGV & PCV drivers is £32.00. The Theory Test consists of two parts. The first part is the multiple choice question section and the second is the hazard perception test.
To pass the first part of the exam you must answer at least 51 out of 60 questions correctly. You answer the questions by touching the computer screen to select the answers from the selection shown.
For category C (LGV) and D (PCV) vocational drivers, in the future, just holding a vocational licence will not be sufficient. A new qualification for professional bus, coach and lorry drivers - the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver's CPC) - is being introduced across the European Union. For more general information visit:
http://www.dvtani.gov.uk/legislation/compulsorytraining.asp
To become a professional driver you must have a thorough knowledge of the regulations that apply to your work. The questions in the theory test will test you on this knowledge. Combined with a high level of driving skill, this will ensure that you carry out your work safely.
The topics covered by the test are:
- Vehicle weights and dimensions
- Drivers' hours and rest periods
- Braking systems
- The Driver
- Carrying passengers
- The Road
- Accident handling
- Vehicle condition
- Leaving the vehicle
- Vehicle loading
- Restricted view
- Documents
- Environmental issues
- Other road users
- Traffic signs
- Vehicle and transport documents required for the national and international carriage of goods and passengers
- The precautions to be taken during the removal and replacement of wheels
Loading and unloading goods and the use of loading equipment (lorries only)
- The principles of the construction and functioning of internal combustion engines and fuel, electrical, ignition and transmission systems
- Lubrication and antifreeze protection
- The principles of the construction, fitting, and correct use and care of tyres
- The principles of the types, operation, main parts, connection, use and day to day maintenance of brake fittings, speed governers and coupling systems and the use of anti-lock brakes
- Methods of locating causes of breakdowns
- Preventative maintenance of vehicles and necessary running repairs
- The drivers responsibility in respect of receipt, carriage and delivery of goods in accordance with the agreed conditions (lorries only)
The second part is the hazard perception test consisting of 14 video clips. You press the mouse button as soon as you see a hazard developing. To pass the second part of the exam you must score a minimum of 50 out of 75.
To help people prepare and study for the theory test we recommend the following publications:
- The Official Highway code
- The Official DSA Guide to Driving the Essential Skills
- Know Your Traffic Signs
- The Official DSA Guide to Driving Goods Vehicles
- The Official DSA Theory Test for Driving Buses and Coaches
- The Official DSA Theory Test for Drivers of Large Vehicles (Books and CD - ROM)
- The Official DSA Guide to Hazard Perception DVD
It is important that you study - not only to pass the test - but also to become a safe driver. More information on the study materials available can be found at
www.dsa.gov.uk (opens a new window). These should be available locally at The Stationery Office, 16 Arthur Street, Belfast. Tel: 028 90 238451 or any good bookshop.
When you take the theory test, you'll be asked some specific questions relating to the category of test being taken, as well as questions that apply to all road users.
You do not have to pass your theory test to learn how to drive. The DVA recommends that you have practical lessons before you take your theory test because you are likely to perform better if you have some driving experience. You can choose how to prepare yourself for your theory and practical driving tests. It is generally the case that learner drivers who have plenty of practice and who receive professional instruction perform well.
Theory Tests are available six days a week depending upon the demand. Weekday, evening and Saturday test sessions are available. Arrangements can be made for candidates with special needs. You must tell Booking Section Staff about your special needs when you book your test.
[top]
Theory Test Explained