Driving Tests - The Theory Test
       
The first test you will have to take is the Theory Test. You will need to pass this test before you can book your Practical Test, you can start learning to drive before you pass this test.

The Theory Test is a computer based test taken at your local Theory Test Centre. It lasts 1 hour, the first 40 minutes is a multiple choice test of 50 questions; 5 of them set in the context of a case study scenario; you have to correctly answer 43 or more to pass.

The second part, the Hazard Perception Test, consists of 14 video clips viewed from a drivers perspective and you have to click the mouse when you see a  developing hazard. One of the clips contains two developing hazards, you are not told which one. Your score depends on when you recognise the developing hazards and click the mouse, reducing from 5 (clicking at the optimum time) through 4,3,2 and 1 to 0 if you click too late or too soon. You have to pass both tests together to gain your pass certificate.   

You will need to revise for your Theory Test, your Instructor will be able to assist you with advice, you can use one of the many DVD's available to help. You can revise, do sample tests and monitor your score. Also, you can practice the Hazard Perception element of the test.

When you are confident enough to take your test you can book on line by visiting the DSA web site and selecting online booking.




Driving Tests - The Practical Test
         
When your Driving Instructor says you are ready you can book your Practical Test online at the DSA web site by selecting online booking.

The Practical Driving Test

On your test the first thing you will be asked to do is read a standard number plate from 20.5 metres, about 5 or 6 car lengths. If you are in any doubt about your eyesight visit an Optician before you start to learn.

Next you will have to answer two of the show me/tell me questions to demonstrate your knowledge of basic car safety.

The driving section of your test will last about 40 minutes during which time you will have to demonstrate that you can drive safely and perform some reverse manoeuvres, and maybe an emergency stop. During this time your Examiner will observe your driving, recording any faults you make.

There are changes starting on the 4th October 2010, the number of manouevres will reduce to 1, one in three tests will also perform a Controlled Stop; a section of the drive will be an independant drive, instructions for this section will be given at the roadside, you then drive making decisions and actions on your own until prompted to do otherwise. A video showing an example can be seen on YouTube (follow this link to the clip on DSA on YouTube).

If you drive well you will pass your test and be issued with a pass certificate which allows you to drive unsupervised and apply for your full licence. This is when you should consider a Pass Plus course.