Should I Take My Theory Test First?
Once you’ve got your provisional licence, your journey towards becoming a fully qualified driver will begin. You’ll have several decisions to make: choosing your instructor, picking a transmission, and deciding how intensively you’d like to learn. One of the first steps, however, is to take the theory test. This test plays a vital role in ensuring you’re safe enough to drive on the roads in the UK. It’s so important, in fact, that until you’ve passed it, you’re not allowed to book your practical driving test.
We’re going to look at why the theory test is so important, what it involves, and why learner drivers need to pass their theory test before attempting the practical test.
The Theory Test: What It Is and Why It’s So Important
While the driving test was first introduced back in 1934, the theory test didn’t become part of the learning-to-drive process until 1996. Originally a written exam, it was updated to a computerised format in 2000. Further changes followed, such as the inclusion of the hazard perception section in 2002 and CGI clips in 2015. You can read more about this in our guide to the history of the theory test.
Most of the theory test is based on the Highway Code. This book contains all the rules and information that learners need to know to keep themselves and other road users safe—from road signs to legal requirements to general road safety. As you can imagine, this makes the theory test extremely important.
Many of the rules in the Highway Code are legal requirements, so it’s vital you know them. Additionally, learners need to understand the fundamentals of driving. Newly qualified drivers are at the highest risk of being involved in an accident due to their lack of experience and, in some cases, the difficulty of adjusting to driving unsupervised. While the DVSA can’t ensure new drivers are as experienced as other road users, they can make sure their theoretical knowledge is up to standard.
How It’s Structured
The theory test consists of two sections: multiple choice and hazard perception. You need to pass both sections to pass the overall test. If you fail one section, you won’t receive your theory test pass certificate and won’t be able to book your practical test.
Multiple Choice
- This section contains 50 questions, and you’re given 57 minutes to answer them.
- You need to score 43 out of 50 to pass.
- You’ll have a few practice questions at the beginning to get comfortable with the format. You can flag questions and return to them at the end.
- The questions include case studies and cover a range of topics, such as alertness, hazard awareness, and road documents.
With just under 1,000 questions available in the DVSA’s question bank, it’s essential to thoroughly prepare before your test.
Hazard Perception
- You’ll watch 14 clips that each contain developing hazards.
- You must click the mouse each time you spot a developing hazard.
- Each hazard is worth 5 points, and you need a score of 44 out of 75 to pass.
If you’ve heard that you can just click frequently to pass, you’ll want to rethink this approach. Clicking in a consistent pattern or continuously can trigger the system to think you’re cheating, resulting in zero marks for the clip.
Why Do I Need to Pass the Theory Test Before My Practical Test?
You cannot physically book your practical driving test until you’ve passed your theory test. Once you pass, you’ll receive a pass certificate with a theory test pass number—information required to book the practical test.
The DVSA has put this requirement in place because the theory test provides the foundation for your driving knowledge. Practical skills are important, but knowing the rules and laws of the road is critical. Imagine the chaos on the roads if drivers didn’t know certain road signs or how to approach a junction!
Can I Take It on the Same Day as My Practical Test?
Unfortunately, this is a common theory test myth. To book your practical test, you need a valid theory test pass number, which you can only get by passing the theory test. Given the DVSA’s long waiting times for practical tests, it’s not possible to take both tests on the same day. Besides, most learners would agree that one test at a time is stressful enough!
Should I Pass My Theory Test Before Starting Driving Lessons?
There’s no rule that says you must pass your theory test before starting driving lessons. It’s a matter of personal preference. Some instructors recommend taking a few driving lessons first to gain some real-life road experience. Understanding hazards, road signs, and stopping distances can often be easier when you’ve experienced them in practice.
That said, Leo Driving School advises learners to get the theory test out of the way early. Otherwise, you could finish your driving lessons and feel ready for the practical test, only to be delayed by having to pass your theory test first.
How Do I Book My Theory Test?
To book your theory test, you need to:
- Be 17 or over (or 16 if you qualify for Personal Independence Payment).
- Have a provisional driving licence.
What You Need to Book:
- Your provisional licence number.
- An identity document (if you don’t have a UK biometric passport).
- Your address history for the last 3 years.
- Your National Insurance number.
A provisional licence costs £34 if you apply online, and it should arrive within a week. Once you have it, you can book your theory test for a fee of £23. You’ll receive a confirmation email or letter after booking. Be sure to double-check the date, time, and test centre details—you don’t want to miss your test due to a mix-up!
Tips for Passing the Theory Test
It’s simple: revise thoroughly. The theory test isn’t just common sense; you need to spend time preparing. The Highway Code, practice tests, and hazard perception mock clips are all essential revision tools.
What to Do Once You’ve Passed
Congratulations! Once you’ve passed, you can use your theory test pass number to book your practical driving test. Remember, your theory test certificate is valid for 2 years. If you don’t pass your practical test within this timeframe, you’ll have to retake the theory test.
At Leo Driving School, we recommend booking lessons and planning your practical test as soon as possible to avoid delays.
FAQs
1. Do I need a provisional licence to book the theory test?
Yes. You’ll need your provisional licence number to book the theory test.
2. What if I lose my provisional licence?
You’ll need to apply for a replacement before booking or attending your theory test.
3. Can I pass one section but fail the other?
No. You must pass both the multiple-choice and hazard perception sections.
4. How long is the theory test certificate valid for?
Your certificate is valid for 2 years.
5. Can I resit the theory test if I fail?
Yes, but you must wait at least 3 working days before retaking it.
6. What do I need to bring to my theory test?
You must bring your provisional licence.
7. Do I get my results on the same day?
Yes. You’ll receive your results immediately after completing the test.
If you’re ready to start your driving journey, Leo Driving School is here to help. Book your Course with us today and get one step closer to passing your test!