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The Theory Test

Everything You Need to Know

Before booking your practical test, you must pass the car theory test. Here’s a clear, up‑to‑date guide covering the format, pass marks, costs, how to book, what to bring, special arrangements and smart ways to prepare.

What’s in the theory test?

The test has two parts taken on the same day. You must pass both to get your theory certificate.

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  • Multiple‑choice questions – 50 questions from Highway Code topics. You’ll have up to 57 minutes. You can flag and review answers.

  • Hazard perception – 14 video clips (one has two developing hazards). Click when you see a developing hazard to score up to 5 points per clip.


Multiple Choice
Pass Mark

43/50


Hazard Perception
Pass Mark

44/75

Key facts

  • Price: £23 (car theory test).

  • Certificate validity: 2 years – you must pass the practical test within this time or retake theory.

  • Result: given at the test centre straight after you finish.

  • Changes: you can change the date/location if you give at least 3 full working days’ notice.


What You Need On The Day:-
 
Your UK photocard licence
No Licence - No Test - No Refund

How to Book Your Theory Test

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  1. Make sure you have a UK provisional licence and have lived in England, Wales or Scotland for at least 185 days in the last 12 months.
     

  2. Book only via the official GOV.UK service (avoid third‑party mark‑ups).
     

  3. Tell DVSA at booking if you need support (e.g. extra time, BSL interpreter).

Preparation that actually works

Drill the Highway Code – not just answers.

Learn the "why" behind the rules.

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  1. Use timed mocks – recreate the 50‑question format; review mistakes the same day.

  2. Train hazard perception – practise scanning for developing hazards and clicking once you see change (speed/direction/intent).

  3. Space practice – shorter daily sessions beat last‑minute cramming.

  4. Night‑before check – locate the centre, prep photo ID, and stop revising 30–60 minutes before bed.

The DVSA has some very good online resources - Check them out here

On The Day

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  • Arrive 10–15 minutes early for security checks.

  • Lockers are usually provided; personal items (phones/smartwatches) must be stored.

  • You can take a short practice session before each part starts.

  • Review screen – use it to revisit flagged questions before submitting.

Special arrangements & accessibility

If you have a reading difficulty, disability or health condition, DVSA can provide support such as:

  • British Sign Language (BSL) on‑screen translation, or a BSL interpreter in person.

  • Extra time or a reader/recorder (evidence may be required).

  • Separate room or other reasonable adjustments when appropriate.

Request support during booking. There’s no extra DVSA fee for BSL support.

Results, retakes & refunds

  • You’ll get your score breakdown immediately at the centre.

  • If you pass, keep the pass certificate number safe – you’ll need it to book the practical test.

  • If you do not pass, you can rebook right away (subject to availability).

  • You can change or cancel your booking with 3 full working days’ notice to avoid losing the fee.

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