Home » Driving Lessons » Tests » Theory & Hazard Perception Test

Theory & Hazard Perception Test

The Theory Test consists of two parts – multiple choice questions, followed by the hazard perception test. Both parts must be passed during the same sitting, you cannot do either part of the test separately.

You should arrive 15 minutes before the test is due to begin. It is essential that you remember to bring the following items with you on the day or you will not be allowed to sit the test:

  • Signed provisional licence plus the counterpart (if you have an older, non photo licence, you will need this plus a valid passport)
  • Your theory test appointment letter (the booking reference number is required)

Multiple Choice Questions

This part of the test is completed using a touch screen computer. Before you begin you will have the opportunity to do a test run, to get used to the layout of the test. Once this ends, the real test will begin. Your knowledge of the Theory of Driving will be tested and you must correctly answer 43 of the 50 questions asked in order to pass. Five of the questions will be presented as a case study, which consists of an example of a real life scenario which you could come across while driving.

Hazard Perception

After a short break, the second part of the test will begin. You will be shown 14 video clips of road scenes in which there are 15 developing hazards. The earlier you spot the hazard and click the mouse, the more points you will get (5 being the maximum per hazard). There will be no opportunity to review your answers in order to make the test as true to real life as possible. To pass this part, you need to score a minimum of 44 out of 75 points.

After you have completed the test you will receive your result from the test centre staff.

Currently in west central Scotland there are Theory Test centres in Ayr, Glasgow, Stirling and Greenock. In Fife the test centre is in Dundee. If you have difficulty in travelling to your chosen test centre, please speak your DRM instructor about arranging a driving lesson around your test time.

Special provisions can be made for those with any special needs; for example, the test can be conducted in a variety of different languages. More information on this (and the Theory Test in general) can be on the Direct.gov. web site

DRM can book the theory test for you, if you are learning with a DRM instructor.

Alternatively you can book it online at www.direct.gov.uk or on the telephone – 0300 200 1122.