Find out about the DSA driving theory test, the practical driving test and the hazard perception test.

Tanveer passed his practical driving test first time.

Samantha passed her practical driving test with no problems.

DSA Driving Theory Test

The DSA driving theory test consists of 35 questions on road knowledge and safety, randomly picked from a data bank of 1000 questions.

The theory test is based upon 'The Highway Code' and will include a number of questions on: attitudes, vehicle handing and road traffic laws. The driving theory test also includes a hazard perception test.

Test details: the test is compiled from a bank of over 1,000 questions arranged in a computerised test of 35 multiple choice questions.

Scoring: the system will provide you with an immediate result, informing you straight away if you have passed or not (a pass requires a score of 30 or over).

Time allowed: 40 mins.

You will need to pass this DSA driving theory test before you can attempt the practical driving test.

Hazard Perception

This test is taken alongside the driving theory test (explained above).

The hazard perception test consists of watching 14 short video clips in which you must identify approaching hazards as quickly as possible.

Time allowed: 15 mins.

If you pass both tests you get a certificate - you now have up to 2 years to pass your practical driving test. Learning about the Hazard Perception test is something that all driving instructors should help you with. During your practical lessons a good instructor will constantly remind you to scan the scene in front and around you, and will point out potential hazards that you should observe as you drive. It is worth knowing that some driving schools have equipped their cars with state-of-the-art video training systems. These have a small camera in the front of the car which takes a video of your entire driving lesson. This enables the instructor to later play back and review any part of your lesson and to point out any mistakes or hazardous situations that you encountered.

You cannot obtain your Driving Theory Certificate unless you pass both the theory and the hazard perception tests at the same test session!

Practical Driving Test

The practical driving test is taken with a DSA examiner and usually lasts about 45 mins. This test will require you to:

• go through an eyesight test which consists of reading a number plate registration from a DSA pre-set distance,
   
• attend your vehicle where you will  be asked 2 questions by the examiner. These 2 questions could be about the car engine (under the bonnet) or general driving safety questions. If you get both these questions wrong, you would then start your practical driving test with 2 minor faults.
   
• The examiner will then take you on a route designed to test your driving skills and you will have to perform 2 or 3  slow manoeuvres. During this part of the test, you are allowed some minor driving faults which the examiner will record on your test sheet - but any serious or dangerous driving faults will lead to an instant failure! You might like to know that about 90% of test failures occur at junctions or roundabouts - so take special care at these hazards!

If you feel that you are ready to book your theory test and/or your practical driving test, then you can do so online at this government web site www.dsa.gov.uk.

Practical Driving Test Tips

We would like to offer you the following tips to help you pass your practical driving test:

• Get a good nights sleep the night before your driving test.
  
  
• Dress comfortably.
   
• Prior to the test drive, relax by taking in 3 deep breaths.
   
• Have confidence in your ability.
   
• Give the examiner a smooth controlled drive that you can both enjoy.
   
• Don't drive to impress the examiner.