How to Pass The Theory Test

Why do you have to take a theory test?

In order to remain safe while driving, all learner drivers are required to learn the rules and regulations of the road. Whether you are driving on a dual carriageway, navigating a pedestrian crossing or tackling a junction, each road has a particular set of rules that you need to be aware of and these are contained in the Highway Code. To ensure you understand the rules of the road, you are required to take a driving theory test.

How to pass the theory test

These tips are tried and tested and we’ve helped thousands of learner drivers, pass their theory tests over the years. The tips in this guide and mock theory test quizzes are the perfect study combination and we’re certain they’ll dramatically improve your chances of passing.

Use the right study materials

Choosing the right study material can help you get to grips with the Highway Code in a shorter period of time. The official DVSA handbook and CD are still the most effective ways of preparing for the test. The handbook has over 1000 potential questions, while the CD teaches you how to spot hazards in good time and scan the road as you drive. You can also download the official DVSA theory test app as well as use the online theory resources on our website.

Revise as often as you can

It is important to spend a significant amount of time revising and studying for your theory test. To stand the best chance of passing, revise for between 1 – 2 hours a day for at least a month. In this time you should read the highway code handbook, answer practice theory questions and learn the routines for spotting hazards and potential dangers as you drive.

Practice mock theory test questions

Mock theory test questions are one of the most effective ways of preparing for your theory test. There are a number of different practice questions you can take and you need to consistently pass these tests before booking your actual test. We have several mock theory tests you can take including a road signs test and a braking distance test.

Put your knowledge into practice

Studying for your theory test while you learn to drive can also help you progress at a quicker rate. We recommend taking driving lessons as you study, as this will give you real-world experience of the rules you are learning. Looking out for signs, road markings and traffic information as you drive will help put the information into perspective while making you a better and more aware driver.

Revise the hazard perception

The hazard perception section of the test can be challenging and it’s an area many people struggle with. There are 14 clips in this part of the test, you can score up to 5 marks per clip and you need to score a minimum of 44 points to pass. To pass this section it is important you spend time learning how to spot hazards, what actions to take when you approach one and how to effectively scan the road as you drive. Our hazard perception category has a number of guides and tutorials to help you with this and we recommend going over the information in this section a number of times before booking your theory test.

Get a good night’s sleep

Sleeping well the night before increases the chances of you performing well on the day of your test. Your frame of mind can impact how well you do and it is important to be rested, well-fed and alert as possible come the day of your exam. Taking the test while tired, agitated or distracted can lead to you underperforming.

Don’t forget your photo ID

You need to present your photo ID before you are allowed into the examination room to take your test. If you fail to show your ID when asked, you will not be allowed to take the test and this is to prevent people from impersonating other individuals during the exam. Acceptable forms of ID include your GB or Northern Ireland provisional driving license, or an old-style paper GB or Northern Ireland driving license with a valid passport.

Don’t be late!

In the confirmation email you receive after booking your theory test, it states you need to arrive at your designated test centre at least 15 minutes before the start of your test. Turning up early gives you time to read the test instructions, put your belongings in the locker provided and prepare for the start of your test without rushing. If you arrive right on your scheduled test time, you risk rushing the signing in process, which may result in you feeling flustered at the start of your test. If you arrive late and the centre is busy, you may be turned away and your booking fee will not be refunded.

Take the practice questions at the start of your test

At the start of your test, right before the multiple-choice questions begin, you have the option of answering a few practice questions before the examination officially begins. You do not have to answer these questions but it is advisable you do, especially if it is your first time sitting the test. The practice questions will get you used to the style and format of the test, you can experiment with the flag and mark for later buttons and answering a few practice questions will ensure you begin the test confident and relaxed.

Pace yourself

You have 57 minutes to answer 50 multiple choice questions, meaning you have plenty of time to work through the test. It is important not to feel rushed or pressurised as you progress, give yourself enough time to answer each question. If you find yourself stuck on a particular question, flag it for later and return to it at the end of the test. Additional time can also be given to individuals with hearing and reading difficulties, or for those with other special needs.