Driving Theory Test

The driving theory test is taken using a computer located at your local Driving Standards Agency Theory Test Centre. On arrival, you should register at the reception desk, at which point you'll be allocated a booth containing a computer loaded with your personal Theory Test. The DSA has compiled about 800 different questions for the multiple choice element - your test will be made up from 35 of them. Your test will be different to the test taken by anyone else in the room - so it's not worth trying to look at anyone else's answers!

The test is available in a variety of languages and there is also an option using British Sign Language for candidates who are deaf. Before the test starts you will be given instructions on how it works, and you may also choose to go through a 15 minute practice session of the multiple choice questions to get used to the layout of the test. If you have any problems using the system ask during your practice time and someone at the centre will give you assistance. At the end of the practice session the real test will begin.

You will have 40 minutes to answer 35 multiple-choice questions by touching the screen to choose an answer (or answers), from the options shown. The questions will vary between text, text with graphics of road signs, and text with photographs of driving and road scenarios. Although you are usually expected to make a selection form a choice of 4 answers, some questions may ask for 2, 3 or 4 correct options to be chosen from a range of up to 6 possibilities. Some of the areas that the multiple choice section covers include:

• Rules of the Road
• Road and Traffic Signs
• Safety and Your Vehicle
• Motorway Rules
• Safety Margins
• Vehicle Handling
• Accidents
• Vehicle Loading

If you're not sure of some of the answers, you have the option to flag them so that you can return to them later. Once you have got to the end of the questions you will be given the option to return to any flagged or incomplete questions, or to review the entire test. A clock on the system will advise you of how much time you have remaining. It is a good idea to use all the time available to you to go over all the questions again just in case you've made any obvious mistakes.

The pass mark for the multiple choice part of the theory test is 30 out of 35.

When you have finished the multiple choice section you can have a 3 minute break before the Hazard Perception section starts.

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