Preparing for the theory test

The LDC system will be able to assist you with preparation for the theory test
There are various learning resources available to you that most driving schools simply cannot provide.
The driving theory test has two parts, part one is a multiple choice test of 35 questions and part two is a hazard perception test of 14 video clips in which you will have to identify 15 developing hazards.

To prepare for both parts of the theory test we recommend that all candidates, regardless of driving experience, use the resource material available. Study your copy of the highway code and/or our publication 'The LDC Theory Test Highway Code Workbook' (available from me or can be ordered from the LDC website). You can also make good use of our PC based cd-rom course material 'The Driving Test 3-in1'. This includes over 100 hazard perception video clips and 10 actual DSA test examples.
I find it is helpful to prepare for your theory test whilst having practical lessons this way you are able to apply the theory you are learning to real driving situations.
With your First theory test booking confirmation letter, the DSA should send you a CD ROM which you should watch. This explains the process of taking the theory test.

Multiple choice

To prepare for the multiple choice part of the theory test, there are three books you should have. The Highway Code, Know Your Traffic Signs, and the LDC Theory Test Highway Code Workbook. Click this link to see and use our FREE online highway code manual.
The complete set of theory test questions and answers is also available in book and CD format from LDC.

Hazard perception

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) has developed a modular, multi-media training resource for the hazard perception test. The resource is available in DVD and VHS video format and is called 'The official guide to hazard perception'; this was formerly known as 'Roadsense'.

This training resource adopts a structured approach to defining hazards, looking for clues, the 'mirror- signal- manoeuvre' routine, scanning and planning, prioritising, cutting down the risks and responding to hazards. The DVD also has a number of interactive, example hazard perception video clips.

The hazard perception training material has been developed, not as a 'teach yourself' product, but as one where guidance from a professional trainer is essential.
Click here to see the brand new training aid designed to help you pass first time.
Integrating theoretical hazard perception training into the practical training sessions will ensure that as competence is achieved in each of the necessary skills, they can be strengthened and applied while you are on the road to increase the road safety benefits.

Taking your theory test

When you arrive at the test centre you will be expected to show both parts of your valid driving licence (the photocard and the paper counterpart). You should also bring your appointment letter or booking number. If you don't bring the correct documents with you on the day, you won't be able to take your test and you will lose your fee.

Old-style driving licences
If you have an old-style paper licence you must take both your paper driving licence and a valid passport. No other form of photographic identification will be accepted.

Please Remember:
no licence and/or no photo WILL MEAN no test, and you will lose your fee and have to re-book your theory test!

At the test centre

You should arrive at the test centre in plenty of time so that you aren't rushed. Once you have been registered at reception you will go through to the test room. You may not take anything into the room with you; all personal items must be stored in the lockers provided. 

Once you are in the test room you may not talk to or distract other candidates. The computer screen will display your name and the category of test you are taking.

If you have any problems during the theory test, you should raise your hand to attract the attention of the test invigilator.

Part one - multiple choice

Before the test starts you will be given instructions on how the test works.

You can also choose to go through a practice session of the multiple choice questions to get used to the layout of the test. At the end of the practice session the real test will begin.

A question and several answer options will appear onscreen and you have to select the correct answer to the question by touching the screen or using the mouse.
Remember, some questions may require more than one answer. 

You will be asked 50 questions in a maximum of 57 minutes. You can navigate between questions and 'flag' questions that you want to come back to later in the test. 

The pass mark for the multiple choice part of the theory test is 43 out of 50.

After the multiple choice part you can choose to have a break of up to three minutes before the hazard perception part starts.

Part two – hazard perception

After the break you will then be shown a short tutorial video clip about how the hazard perception part works.

The hazard perception part is also delivered on a computer but you respond by clicking a button on the mouse. You will be presented with a series of 14 video clips which feature every day road scenes. In each clip there will be at least one developing hazard, but one of the clips will feature two developing hazards. 

To achieve a high score you will need to respond to the developing hazard during the early part of its development.  The maximum you can score on each hazard is five. 

You will not be able to review your answers to the hazard perception test; as on the road, you will only have one chance to respond to the developing hazard.

The pass mark for the car and motorcycle hazard perception part of the theory test is 44 out of 75.