DVLA Theory Test

Your DVLA theory test, are you ready to take it? Then there are some things you need to know:

You can take your DVLA test when you current provisional license is valid. Your license will be valid the day you turn 17-years-old if you are not already. However, you can apply for it up the three months before you become 17. You still will need to wait until the day you turn 17 to take your theory test. This is the case even if you have a provisional license already.

There is an exception for those who are receiving a disability allowance at the highest rate possible. Then those individuals' provisional licenses go into effect the day they turn 16.

For those of you just learning to drive you need to obtain a valid provisional license for either Northern Ireland or Great Britain. You must also make sure that any vehicle you will be driving on the day of your test is properly licensed, taxed, and insured. This vehicle also needs to be road worthy.

You will need to practice your driving skills while in the company of an adult who is at least 21 years of age and who has also had their license for at least three years.

Your license plates must also reflect that you are learning how to drive. These must be visible and placed on both the front and rear bumpers of your car.

For those of you who do not have your license yet, you will need to obtain a provisional license as well. You must obtain a provisional license before you apply for your driving license and take your theory test.

Please be aware that when you are preparing for your theory driving tests that you absolutely must take the theory test before you are allowed to take the practical driving test. The DVLA theory test is computer based. There are various locations around the country which are available to you to take the theory test. To find a convenient location and book a test you can simply go to the DSA website for more information.

Part One: Multiple Choice Test

The first part of your driving theory test will consist of 50 randomly selected multiple choice questions. Of these 50, you will need to correctly answer at least 43 of them in order to pass. If you need to, a 15-minute pre-test practice session can be worked through before the actual test begins.

Part Two: Hazard Perception

The second part of your driving theory test will consist of a hazards perception test. This test is comprised of 14 videos. Each of these is only about one-minute long. These are designed to test your awareness of potentially hazardous conditions and instances that may occur when you drive. You can expect to view videos that contain hazards such as potential vehicle or pedestrian hazards, road construction, road conditions, severe weather, and any other main hazardous conditions you may encounter. Your score will be higher depending on how fast you can spot these hazards that require you to take some actions to avoid.

The complete test will include 15 road hazards. There are a possible 5 points each which total up to 75 points for the whole second section of the test. You need to obtain at least 44 points to pass this second portion of the test.

The DVLA Theory Test: What You Need to Know

You will need to know the following things to pass the theory test:

The Highway Code - Is essential reading for all drivers, motorcyclists, pedestrian, and even equestrians. Those who use the road absolutely must know the rules and safety laws. The code contains the most recent and up-to-date advice and information on road safety laws.

Traffic Signs - The ability to read and follow all traffic signs.

Theory Test Questions - Read the latest copy of the theory test questions published by the DSA. Since these questions change occasionally you should be sure to pick up the most recently published version of this handbook. The most recent theory test questions will be in this book and it serves as a mock theory test practice handbook. As with all tests, being familiar with a test before taking it can help.

Hazard Perception Test Preparation - Those who have access to a computer can pre-study for this portion of the test. Simply find a website or two which provide theory test information or CD's available. Then, simply practice your hazards perception skills in advance of taking your DVLA test.

The practical test is available in many different centers around the country. When you are ready to take the test simply go to the DSA website to find a nearby location and testing time the works for you. Tests are available throughout the day on most days at most centers.

Generally speaking the test can be taken at any permanent testing center. There are premium rates, however, for those time periods available on Saturdays or during weekday evenings. Non-premium testing time occurs during the weekdays from 7:30 a.m. until 3:27 p.m.

You can expect the practical driving test to last about 40 minutes. During the test your testing examiner will check for safety standards displayed during your driving session and this will include any instructions you are asked to perform. Up to 15 minor mistakes can be made and still pass this test. On another note, make one particularly dangerous mistake, and you will fail.

You will know when the test is over if you have passed or failed. If you like, your examiner can provide feedback about your performance during the test.

Passing & Failing
Upon passing your test you will have two choices. The first choice is to receive your full driving license and have it issued to you immediately. If you already own a driving license that has been issued after March 1st of 2004, then the examiner will need to have your old license. They will scan the information off this license into a computer and send it into the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. Then you will be handed a certificate that you have passed your test. Your new license should arrive by postal mail after three weeks if you have successfully passed and requested the license.

If you old license was issued before March 1st of 2004 or you want to wait on obtaining your license you may do so. Your examiner will still provide you with a certificate proving that you have passed your theory and practical tests. This pass certificate contains instruction on the back that will explain to you how to proceed. This means your license will need to be sent to the DVLA. They will check your application and send you a full license.