About the theory test

The theory test is made up of two parts; the multiple choice part and the hazard perception part. You need to pass both parts to pass the theory test. Once you have passed the theory test you can then apply to take your practical driving test.

The multiple choice part consists of 50 multiple choice questions. From 28 September 2009 some of the multiple choice questions will be presented to when driving in the form of a case study. A case study shows a scenario on which five questions will be based. The subject of the scenario will focus on real life examples and experiences that you might encounter when driving (it is only the multiple choice part that you can practice on this site). In the actual test you select your answers by simply touching the screen. You need to touch the box alongside the answer, or answers, you think are correct. If you change your mind and don’t want that answer to be selected, touch it again. You can then choose another answer.

This on-line version does not use a touch screen. A question and several answer options will appear on screen. You have to select the correct answer, or answers, by using the mouse. Some questions may require more than one answer.

There are 50 questions and you have 57 minutes to complete the test. You can navigate between questions and ‘flag’ ones you may want to come back to later.

The pass mark for the multiple choice part of the theory test is 43 out of 50.

The hazard perception part of the test is delivered on a computer. You respond by clicking a button on the mouse. You will be presented with a series of 14 video clips which feature every day road scenes. Each clip will have at least one developing harzard, but one clip will feature two.

To achieve a high score you will need to respond to the developing hazard during the early part of its development. The maximum you can score on each hazard is five marks.

You will not be able to review your answers to the hazard perception test; as on the road you will only have one chance to respond to a developing hazard.

The pass mark for the car and motorcycle hazard perception part of the theory test is 44 out of 75.