Driving Tests
The Driving Tests and Pass Plus
The Tests
The test comprises of four sections. Theory, Hazard Perception, Show Me,Tell Me and The Practical.
The Tests in Detail
Theory Test
The Theory Test was first introduced in 1996 to improve a new driver's understanding of the skills and responsibilities associated with driving; eg.
- Driver Attitude
- Traffic Signs & Regulations
- Effects of Alcohol, Drugs and Fatigue on Driver Behaviour
- Safety and Environmental Aspects of Vehicles
- Hazard Awareness
The first part of the test consists of 50 multiple choice questions. To be successful you will need to correctly answer 43 out of 50.
The second element of the test is hazard perception...
You must be successful in the theory and the hazard perception elements to gain an overall pass. Your certificate will be valid for 2 years.
Take care when you book your theory test. Use only the official web site www.dsa.gov.uk to avoid being over charged. It should cost no more than £31. (correct at 11/10/09)
Some sites are charging unnecessarily to book your test.
Hazard Perception Test
In November 2002 the hazard perception element was introduced to the Theory Test. It follows the theory test questions and consists of fourteen one-minute video clips of every day road scenes, filmed from the perspective of a car driver.
The candidate acknowledges, by clicking the mouse button, when they observe a developing hazard. They will be marked according to how quickly they respond to the developing hazards.
The pass mark for the hazard perception part of the theory test is 44 out of 75.
Candidates must be successful in the theory and the hazard perception elements to gain an overall pass. The certificate will be valid for 2 years.
The fee is included with the theory test.
Show Me, Tell Me Test
At the start of your driving test you will be asked two questions, one will be "Show Me" - where you will have to physically check something - and one will be "Tell Me" - where you will have to explain how you would check something.
Example question:
- Open the bonnet, show me where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.
Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.
Don't worry! I can help with this too. When you are close to test standard I will give you a sheet listing all possible questions and the answers you are required to give
Practical Driving Test
The Practical Driving Test will last for up to 45 minutes and will include a range of typical road and traffic conditions. The examiner will be looking for a good, safe driver. He will allow the candidate up to 15 minor faults before failing. A minor fault is explained as not involving dangerous or potentially dangerous situations.
However, if one serious or dangerous fault is made - a failure will be the result. A serious fault is involving a potential danger, ie: a situation in which the candidate's actions involve an unacceptable risk to either themselves or others.
The fee for the Practical Test is currently £62.00
Pass Plus
Pass Plus is a training course specifically aimed at new drivers, designed by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) with the help of insurers and the driving instruction industry. Pass Plus will build upon your existing skills and knowledge, it will teach you how to anticipate, plan for and deal with all kinds of hazards, and can help you to become more confident on the roads Pass
Plus is made up of six practical modules which include:
- driving in town
- driving in all weathers
- driving on rural roads
- driving at night
- driving on dual carriageways
- driving on motorways
Anyone who holds a full UK licence is eligible to take part in the scheme. You will not have to take a test at the end of the course but you will be continually assessed. You must successfully complete all the modules in the course to an achieved or exceeded standard.
