The Theory Test

All new drivers must pass a theory test before they can sit their driving test. SDT can help with advice tuition and learning materials to ensure you are fully prepared.

What is the Theory Test?

Designed to improve safety - The fact is, within the first two years of passing your driving test; you're more vulnerable on today's busy roads than more experienced drivers. As many as 1 in 5 newly qualified drivers has an accident in the first year, with the highest risk being faced by 17 to 25 year olds.

The Theory Test and the new hazard perception test are designed to boost your skills so that you're less likely to be involved in an accident. Research shows that just three hours of hazard perception training can significantly reduce the accident rate of an inexperienced driver.

When should you take it?

You don't need to pass your theory test before you can start driving lessons. In fact, it's a good idea to learn the theory while you are learning the practical side of driving as it can bring the subject alive, making it easier to understand and remember. However, you do have to pass your theory test before you can book the practical driving test.

If you want to get a head start, you can actually start learning your theory before you even have your provisional licence, and you can take your theory test as soon as you reach your 17th birthday.

Preparing for your theory test

People who learn with SDT enjoy a high Theory Test pass rate. Improve your chances of passing with our comprehensive range of books, CD-ROMs and Online training aids, all specially designed to help you pass your test first time.

When you think you've finished your revision, the best way to check whether you've covered everything is to have a trial run. Then, if you're ready, just ask us about booking the real thing.

If you're learning to drive with SDT, we can book your test for you and take care of all the details. There are theory test centres located all over the UK and we'll let you know which one is nearest to you.

When you book your theory test you'll need:

    * Your provisional driving licence

    * A debit or credit card for payment

    * Details of any special requirements.

The cost of the standard theory test is currently £31. Usually, your theory test appointment will be scheduled about two weeks after booking.

If you prefer, you can book your own theory test directly with the DSA at www.dsa.gov.uk.

What to expect at the Test Centre

Being well prepared and knowing what to expect when you get to the test centre will boost your confidence and improve your chances of passing.

Here's what to do.

You'll take your driving Theory Test at your local DSA Theory Test centre.

You may want to check out its location in advance of your test. When you go to the centre, remember to take your provisional driving licence with you and some other proof of identity that shows your name, photograph and signature. Your booking letter will give details of the correct forms of ID. When you arrive you'll need to register at the reception desk. You'll then be allocated a booth in which there will be a computer loaded with the test.

This is made up in two parts a set of multi choice questions. There are 50 questions and you have 57 minutes to complete them. Afterwards you will get a hazard perception test.

When you've finished both parts of the test, you'll return to the waiting room where you'll be given your results. For the multiple-choice test, the pass mark is 43 correct answers from 50 questions. For the hazard perception section, you can score up to a maximum of 5 marks on each hazard. The test contains 15 scoreable hazards and the pass mark is 44 out of a possible 75 for car drivers.