About the Theory test

 

General
The Theory test also includes a Hazard Perception test (click link in menu for more details) as well as a multi choice style of Theory exam. You can prepare for your Theory Test before you start to drive, and the knowledge that you will gain from the study should help you in your lessons in the car, and it make your progress faster when you are out on the road. You will find all the questions and answers in the DSA's book "The Official Theory Test for Car Drivers and Motorcyclists", or in the CD rom "Driving Test Theory Success", which is produced by the DSA who run the test. This CD contains all the questions that are currently used in the Theory Test, and also contains a hazard perception test similar to that which you can expect when taking the real exam. In addition to this you should have a copy of the "Highway Code" which should be read thoroughly. 

Timing
If you are considering an intensive course of driving lessons, then you will need to have passed the theory test before starting your course. (See the practical section for more details on intensive courses, including the pro's and con's). Failure to do this will mean that you may be ready to take your practical test, but won't be able to do so because you can not apply for the practical test without having first taken the theory. 

Whats Involved
The test is now done using a touch screen computer system, and is taken at a venue with other people who are taking the test. The advantage of the computer system is that you should get your results as you leave the test centre, where as in the past you had to wait for at least 10 days. The nearest test centres for pupils of Kingsdriving are either Luton, Watford or Stevenage. The multi choice question test itself lasts for 40 Minutes, in-which you need to answer 35 questions, of which at least 30 must be correct. The hazard perception test will then follow and will take about . 
How we can help
At Kingsdriving we have a number of mock test papers that you are welcome to make use of, as well as the tests that you will find on this site. You are welcome to make use of a DVD that will help prepare you for the Hazard Perception, and you are also welcome to borrow the official CD Rom which has selections of questions used in the test. This CD also has a video section which allows you to try out your reactions to some real life situations. 
Note
Your practical driving test can not be applied for until you have passed the theory test. With the theory test under your belt, you then have two years in which to pass your practical, or else the theory test will have to be taken again!.
More Information!

For more information on what to expect in the Theory Test, and the syllabus, click the link "The Test"

UK Residency Requirements
You can not take a test or obtain a full licence unless you are normally resident in this country. Normal residence means the place where you reside because of personal or occupational ties. However if you have moved to the UK having recently been permanently resident in another state of the EC/EEA (European Economic Area), you must have been normally resident in the UK for 185 days in the 12 months prior to your application for a driving licence.

Cancelling your theory test, and exemptions
If you wish to cancel your theory test appointment you must give at least 3 whole working days notice or you will forfeit the theory test fee. Not all drivers will need to take a theory test. For example, if you hold a full car licence and are applying for a motorcycle licence, or vice versa, a theory test is not required. This is also the case if you have a full licence to drive a vehicle with automatic transmission and you wish to upgrade your licence to drive vehicles in the same licence category but with manual transmission.

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