KMC school of motoring -Driving schools in Banstead, Ewell.

Theory test and hazard awareness

You can take your Theory Test once your provisional licence becomes valid.

The Theory Test consists of two parts and is designed to test your understanding of the theory behind driving.

The first part is multiple choice. There are of 50 randomly selected questions and you must achieve a pass mark of 43 correct answers out of 50 to pass. The questions cover topics from the highway code and much more. There are many books and CD ROMS that can help you prepare.

The second part is the Hazard Perception Test (HPT) and this is designed to test your awareness of potential hazards whilst driving.

There will be 14 different moving scenes on the Hazard Perception screen, you will have to identify the moving hazard by clicking a mouse. You will be given a window of time in which to spot the hazard. The score will depend on how soon you identify the Hazard.

You must achieve a pass mark of 44 out of 75 to pass this element.
You must pass both parts to obtain a theory pass.

Once you have passed the theory test the DSA will issue you with a pass certificate that will be valid for 2 years from the date of issue. You must take and pass your practical test before your theory certificate expires or you will have to re-take the theory test again.

REMEMBER - Always prepare if you want to pass.

Test of your driving ability - Practical test

You can book your practical test once you have passed your theory test.

On the day of your test you must produce the following items.

Your full provisional license (counterpart & photo card)
Your theory test certificate
Your appointment letter confirming your test date and time.
If you have an old paper licence you will have to bring a valid passport.

As from 1st October 2007 the DSA will cease to allow a declaration to be signed, so make sure you have the correct paperwork or you will lose your test fee and have to re-book.

Once you meet the examiner you will walk him or her to the car and they will check your eyesight (read a number plate at a distance of 67 feet) you will then be asked some safety questions (show n tell). Your test will last about 40 minutes (70 minutes for an extended test) covering general driving and will include manoeuvres selected by the examiner. You will be informed of test result once back at the driving test centre.