The theory test
The car theory test checks that you know the rules of the road and can spot developing hazards. It has two parts, taken in the same appointment, and you must pass both.
Part 1: multiple-choice questions
You answer 50 questions in 57 minutes, and the pass mark is 43. Questions cover topics such as road signs, rules at junctions, vulnerable road users, vehicle safety and what to do after an incident. Some questions are based on a short video case study: you watch a clip and answer questions about it.
Part 2: hazard perception
You watch 14 video clips of everyday road scenes and click when you see a developing hazard. There are 15 scoreable hazards in total, because one clip contains two. Each hazard is worth up to 5 points, and the pass mark is 44 out of 75. Read the hazard perception guide.
Booking and what to bring
Book at GOV.UK: book your theory test using your provisional licence number. Bring your photocard provisional licence on the day; without it you won't be allowed to sit the test. If you pass, your theory certificate is valid for two years. You need to pass the practical test within that time or take the theory test again.
How to prepare
- Use official material. The DVSA publishes the official theory test materials and the Highway Code. Questions are written from these sources.
- Understand, don't memorise. Revising the reasons behind rules helps with questions you haven't seen before.
- Practise hazard perception separately. It's a different skill from answering questions and is where many people drop marks.
- Revise little and often, ideally alongside your lessons so the rules connect to real roads.
Next step: hazard perception in detail
Last reviewed: November 2026