You must pass the theory test before you can book your practical. It has two parts — multiple choice questions and hazard perception clips — and you must pass both in the same sitting.
You have 57 minutes to answer 50 questions drawn from the DVSA question bank. The pass mark is 43 out of 50. Questions cover the Highway Code, road signs, vehicle safety, eco-driving, and road user responsibilities.
Alertness, attitude, safety margins, hazard awareness, vulnerable road users, motorway rules, rules of the road, vehicle handling, vehicle safety, and road and traffic signs.
Each question presents a scenario with either a single correct answer or multiple answers to select. A small number of questions include a photograph or diagram you must interpret.
Working through the full DVSA question bank repeatedly — not just until you recognise answers but until you understand the reasoning. Use the official DVSA revision app alongside your lessons.
Stopping distances (memorise these precisely), motorway rules, towing regulations, and vehicle-safety "show me / tell me" style questions that many candidates underestimate.
You watch 14 CGI video clips of everyday road scenes and must click when you see a developing hazard — something that will cause the driver to change speed or direction. The pass mark is 44 out of 75.
Each clip contains at least one scoreable hazard worth up to 5 points. One clip contains two hazards. Click earlier (as soon as you see it developing) for a higher score — maximum 5 points per hazard.
Clicking rapidly and repeatedly in a pattern will score zero for that clip — the system detects "cheating." Click once or twice as the hazard develops, not constantly throughout.
A developing hazard is one that is changing — a pedestrian stepping towards the kerb, a vehicle about to pull out. Static situations (parked cars, bends) are not scoreable hazards.
The official DVSA practice clips are the best preparation. Aim to score 5/5 on the majority of clips consistently before booking the real test.
You cannot sit the test without your UK photocard driving licence. Forget it and you lose your fee. If you've lost your licence, apply for a replacement before booking — allow plenty of time.
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment. Late arrival may mean you forfeit your slot. Bring water — the test room can be warm and concentration-intensive.
Each session begins with a brief tutorial on how the software works before the real questions begin. Use this time to settle in, not to rush ahead.
Your result is shown on screen immediately after finishing. If you pass, you receive a pass certificate — keep this safe as you'll need it when booking your practical test.
These are the only materials worth buying. Everything else is either outdated or a repackaged version of these official DVSA publications.
The mandatory foundation for all UK road users. Updated regularly — make sure you have the current edition.
Official revision questions and expert commentary from the examining body itself.
A comprehensive illustrated guide to every sign you'll encounter — essential for the multiple choice section.
150 cards for rapid, portable theory test preparation. Useful for testing yourself away from a screen.
As an Amazon Associate, Redcliffe Driving School earns a small commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
We'll time your practical test booking to match where you are in your lessons.