Chris Knight Driving School - The Driving Test

The Theory Test
The theory test is made up of two parts; the multiple choice part and the hazard perception part. You'll need to pass both parts to pass the theory test.

The multiple choice test is delivered using a touch screen computer. You'll be asked 50 questions in 57 minutes. A good knowledge of the Highway Code is needed to answer the questions correctly. The pass mark for the multiple choice part is 43 out of 50.

The hazard perception part is a computer based test to assess how well you can recognise and respond to hazards on the road. The test consists of 14 video clips, each lasting about one minute. The clips feature various types of hazards. The earlier the developing hazard is seen, and a response made, the higher the score. The pass mark for the hazard perception test for car drivers is 44 out of 75.

The theory test costs £31. Passing one part but failing the other will result in a fail for the whole test, and both parts will need to be taken again. You can book your test on the DSA website or phone 0300 - 200 1122. For free theory test practice.

Practical Driving Test
The driving part of your test will last about 40 minutes. Throughout the test your examiner will be looking for an overall safe standard of driving, including when you are carrying out the set exercises. You can make up to 15 minor driving faults and still pass the test (16 or more results in failure). However, if you commit one serious or dangerous fault you will fail the test.

The test will include an eyesight check (if you fail this, your test will not continue). The eyesight test requires you to read a number plate that is 21 metres away.

After the eyesight test you will be asked two vehicle safety check questions. You will then be examined on your general driving and on two reversing exercises. The reversing exercises will be chosen from: reversing around a corner, turning in the road, reverse parking. You may also be asked to carry out an emergency stop exercise.

The cost is £62.00 if taken on a weekday or £75.00, if taken during the weekend.