The Theory and Hazard Perception test
Before you can apply for your practical on-road driving test you need to have passed your part 1, the Theory and Hazard Perception test. This will take place in a local centre on a computer and takes up to an hour and a half. The part 1. Car Theory / Hazard Perception test costs £31.00 (April 2012) The theory test consists of 50 multiple choice questions with a pass mark of 43.
The Hazard Perception part of the test consists of 14 video clips of potential and developing hazards, one clip contains two hazards, the earlier you notice a developing hazard and make a response, the higher you will score. The most you can score for each developing hazard is five points. The maximum possible score is 75 points and you need 44 to achieve a pass.
More detailed information, the chance to try examples of the tests and how to apply can be found on the Direct Gov website.
Good Luck!
The Practical Test
On the day of your practical test:
- The examiner will introduce themselves and ask to see both parts of your driving licence (paper and plastic card) You will also need to show your pass certificate for the Theory and Hazard Perception Test.
- You will be asked if you want your instructor to sit in the back during the test.
- The examiner will then ask you to read off a number plate from approximately 20 metres.
- You will then be asked two vehicle safety questions, the examiner will ask you one 'show me' question, where you'll have to show them how you'd carry out a vehicle safety check. You'll also be asked one 'tell me' question, where you'll have to explain to the examiner how you'd carry out the check.
- The practical part of the test will then begin and lasts about forty minutes, the test routes take in a variety of types of road that may include: Dual carriageways, in town, residential, industrial or country driving and the examiner will expect to you show an overall safe standard of driving at all times. You will be asked to carry out a reverse manoeuvre, you may be asked to do an emergency stop. There will be an ‘independent drive’ part of the test where you are asked to follow traffic signs, a series of directions or both which lasts about 10 minutes. The examiner will never spring any surprises on you, or try to catch you out but will always ask you to pull in prior to giving any instructions or information. When you get back to the centre you will be told the test is over and your result will be given straight away.
More detailed information, videos of the tests and how to apply can be found on the Direct Gov website.
Best of Luck!
—Ian