Automatic 1st Choice - Driving Test Information

The Driving Theory Test
The first part of the theory test is a 57 minute, 50 question multi-choice test based around the Highway code and road safety issues. In order to pass the test you will need to score at least 43 questions correctly.

The fee is £23. This won't be refunded if you fail.

Try our mock theory test

Hazard Perception Test
This is the second part of the theory test which is taken after the multi-choice part has been completed. It consists of fourteen video clips and is designed to measure your ability to recognize road hazards. Thirteen of the clips contain a single hazard and one contains two.

The pass rate is 44 out of 75. You will need to pass both the multi-choice questions and the hazard awareness test in order to successfully pass the theory test.

You cannot apply for the practical driving test until you have passed the theory test.

Driving-test-success.com is a free to use website that will help you pass your theory test.

Practical Driving Test
The duration of this test is 35-40 minutes. In order to pass you must demonstrate that you have a good understanding of the Highway code and have the ability to drive safely on various types of roads and traffic conditions.

You will also have to successfully perform one of the following manoeuvres

• parallel park at the side of the road
  
  
• park in a parking bay - either by driving in and reversing out, or reversing in and driving out (the examiner will tell you which you have to do)
  
  
• pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse for around 2 car lengths, and rejoin the traffic.
  
  
• You may also be asked to carry out an emergency stop.

Independent Driving
For about 20 minutes, half of the test, you will be asked to follow directions from a sat nav. This will be set up by the examiner, one in five driving tests won't use a sat nav you will follow road signs instead.

The examiner may show you a diagram to help you understand where you'll be going. It doesn't matter if you don't remember every direction, or if you go the wrong way.

The purpose is rather to assess your ability to drive safely whilst at the same time having to make your own decisions in order to reach your target destination. This includes for example deciding when it's safe to pull over and ask for directions. Your result will not be affected unless you commit a driving fault, even if you go off the independent driving route.

To pass the test, you must not commit more than 15 minor driving faults or any dangerous or serious driving faults.

On the day of the test you must present the following documentation:

Your provisional licence. If you have the old type paper licence you will also have to bring a valid passport. No other form of photo identification will be accepted.

Booking form or reference number.

Your theory test pass certificate (for the practical test).

The test costs £62 on a week day or £75 over the weekend.