The Theory Test was introduced in July 1996.  Since January 2000, the Theory Test questions have been presented in a multiple choice format on a computer "touch screen" system.  Candidates are briefed on how to operate the system prior to commencing their Theory Test.

Each question appears individually on the screen and candidates select the correct answer or answers.  When each selection is complete, press NEXT to move on to the next question.  It is also possible to return to a previous question to check or change the answer.  Simply press PREVIOUS on the left of the screen.  Candidates will also be alerted if they have not completely answered a question as some require 2 or more answers.

Number of questions - 35
Time allowed to complete the Test - 40 minutes. 

The results will be presented shortly after the Test.  A minimum score of 30 correct answers (from a total of 35) is required to obtain a Pass.

Almost all Learner Drivers will have to take the Theory Test.  There are a few exceptions:

1  Candidates who hold a full motorcycle licence
2  Candidates who already hold an automatic licence
3  Candidates who hold a full moped licence obtained after 1 July 1996 by taking a Theory and a Practical Test will not be required to take another Theory Test.

The Theory Tests are available in several languages:- English, Albanian, Arabic, Bengali, Chinese, Farsi, Gujarati, Hindi, Kurdish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Spanish, Tamil, Turkish, Urdu and Welsh.  If candidates have special needs, provision is made for longer time to complete the Test.  Headsets can be used to hear the questions in any of the above languages.  A video of the Test in British sign language is available on screen for candidates who are deaf or have hearing difficulties.  Translators are also permitted but must be approved by the DSA.  Any additional services required must be requested when booking the test.

The questions are selected from a wide range  of driving topics.  These include the following:-

Alertness, Attitude, Safety and your Vehicle, Safety Margins, Hazard Awareness, Vulnerable Road Users, Other Types of Vehicles, Vehicle Handling, Motorway Rules, Rules of the Road, Road and Traffic Signs, Documents, Accidents and Vehicle Loading. 

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED:

1.  Signed driving licence/Photocard driving licence
2.  Appointment card or booking number
3. Photographic identification (green provisional licence), eg student  union card or signed certificate by your driving instructor

PLEASE NOTE   -   You must have a provisional licence before applying for a Theory Test.  The Pass Certificate is valid for 2 years.

UPDATE 2002  -  From October 2002 a new Hazard Perception Test will be added to the Theory Test.  There will be video clips to test the candidate's skills in dealing with Defining Hazards, Looking for Clues, Mirrors - Signal - Manoeuvre Routine, Scanning and Planning, Prioritising, Cutting Down the Risks and Responding to Hazards.