The Theory Test FAQS

The multi-choice part test consists of 50 questions taken from a bank of over 1000 questions, all based on the Highway Code, the environment, and road safety matters.

The questions include a case study – a scenario on which five questions are based.

The case study will involve a real-life situation that a driver could face while driving and aims to assess your understanding of road safety issues.

You can view a case study example here.

How To Book The Theory Test

You can book online or by phone – 0300 2001122. Have your credit/debit card and provisional driving license number with you.

You will recieve the date and time of your test immediately.

How You Take The Test

You take the test using a touch screen computer. You will have a fifteen-minute practice session before the test begins, which will give you all the information you need to take the test correctly and familiarize yourself with the touch screen controls. If you have any problems, a member of staff will assist you.

Only one question will appear on screen at a time, and you will be able to navigate backward/forward through the questions assessing answers and changing them if necessary. Unanswered questions will show at the end of the test on the Review Screen.

You will be able to return to any unanswered questions to provide an answer. To select or deselect an answer, press the box next to the answer.

So you know how much time remains to complete the test, a countdown counter will show in the top right-hand corner of the screen.

As some questions require more than one answer, the system will warn you if you try to move to the next question without giving the correct number of replies.

If you complete the test before the allotted time, you can end the test by pressing the Review Button followed by the End Button.

The images below show a screenshot of the Question and Review Screens. The Review screen appears after question fifty, or by pressing the Review Button on the Question Screen.

The Pass Mark

You will need to answer 43 of the 50 questions correctly. A pass mark of 86%.

Test Duration

You have 57 minutes to complete the test. The computer will indicate throughout how much time remains.

The Cost

It will cost £23. This price includes the hazard perception test. Make sure you book your test directly with the DVSA.

Documents You Must Bring to the Test Centre

Take your UK photocard driving licence. If you fail to present these documents, the test centre will cancel your test and offer no refund.

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland, bring the photocard and paper counterpart licence.

Security Checks & Procedure

You will be required to turn off all electronics you have with you: phones, smart watches, etc. If you refuse, or are unable to comply, yout test will be cancelled. Only pre-approved personal belongings can be carried into the test area. Any unapproved items, icluding coats, wallets, etc must be placed in a locker. Your face must be clearly visable so staff can match it to the photo on your driving licence. Any item of clothing that covers your face must be removed. If you choose, a private area can be used to do this, and if possible, you can request a female member of staff does the check. Staff will check to see if you have anything that you could use to cheat the test. You will have to
  • show your pockets are empty
  • roll up your sleeves
  • pat yourself down
  • show the top of your socks
  • stay still while they pass a handheld metal detector around you
  • show them your ears to make sure you do not have a hidden earpiece

If You Fail to Pass

You will have to wait a minimum of three working days before retaking the test. You can, however, apply to take it the day after your initial failure.

To Change Your Test Date and Time

You will have to wait a minimum of three working days before retaking the test. You can, however, apply to take it the day after your initial failure.

To Cancel A Theory Test

You can cancel your theory test appointment and receive a full refund if you give three working days’ notice. You can do this online or over the phone.