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Learner theory test practice

Preparing for your driving theory test? Try 10 randomly-selected questions from the DVSA question bank. Get instant feedback with explanations for every answer.

10Questions
8/10Pass mark
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726Question bank

About the real theory test

  • 50 questions - multiple choice from a bank of over 700
  • 57 minutes - plenty of time for most candidates
  • Pass mark: 43/50 (86%) - you also need to pass the hazard perception section
  • £23 fee - book online at gov.uk

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FAQ

Questions & answers

How many questions are on the real driving theory test?
The real DVSA driving theory test has 50 multiple-choice questions. You have 57 minutes to complete them. This is followed by a hazard perception test with 14 video clips.
What is the pass mark for the theory test?
You need to score at least 43 out of 50 (86%) on the multiple-choice section to pass. You also need to pass the hazard perception section separately — the pass mark for that is 44 out of 75.
How much does the theory test cost?
The DVSA theory test costs £23. You can book it online at gov.uk. Tests are held at theory test centres across the UK.
How long is a theory test pass valid for?
Your theory test pass certificate is valid for 2 years from the date you passed. You must take and pass your practical driving test within this period, or you will need to retake the theory test.
What topics are covered in the theory test?
The theory test covers 14 topics: alertness, attitude, safety and your vehicle, safety margins, hazard awareness, vulnerable road users, other types of vehicle, vehicle handling, motorway rules, rules of the road, road and traffic signs, documents, accidents, and vehicle loading.
Is this taster the same as the real test?
This taster uses 10 randomly-selected questions from the same categories covered in the real DVSA theory test. The real test has 50 questions and is timed (57 minutes). Create a free DrivePro account to practise with all 727 questions, track your progress, and take full mock exams.
How many times can you fail the theory test?
There is no limit on the number of times you can take the theory test. If you fail, you must wait at least 3 working days before rebooking. Each attempt costs £23. Many learners pass on their second or third attempt after additional revision.
Can you use your phone in the theory test?
No. Mobile phones and all electronic devices must be switched off and stored in a locker before you enter the test room. If you are found with a phone during the test, your result will be voided and you will lose your fee. Smart watches are also not permitted.
What happens if my theory test expires?
Your theory test certificate is valid for 2 years. If it expires before you pass your practical driving test, you must retake and pass the theory test again before you can book another practical test. There is no extension or grace period.
How to book a theory test
You can book your theory test online at gov.uk/book-theory-test or by calling the DVSA on 0300 200 1122. You will need your provisional driving licence number. Tests are available at theory test centres across the UK, and you can choose a date, time, and location that suits you.
Can I take the theory test online?
No. The DVSA theory test must be taken in person at an official theory test centre. There is no option to take it remotely or online. Be wary of any website claiming to offer an official online theory test — these are not recognised by the DVSA.
What is the theory test pass rate?
The average pass rate for the car theory test is approximately 49%. This means roughly half of all candidates fail on their first attempt. Thorough revision using practice questions and mock tests significantly improves your chances of passing first time.

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DVSA Syllabus

What's on the theory test

The DVSA driving theory test covers 14 topics. Questions are drawn from all categories, so you need a solid understanding of each one. Here is what to expect:

1

Alertness

Observation, anticipation, and concentration while driving. Using mirrors effectively and being aware of blind spots.

2

Attitude

Consideration for other road users, road rage, and responsible driving behaviour.

3

Safety and your vehicle

Vehicle maintenance, fault detection, vehicle security, and environmental impact.

4

Safety margins

Stopping distances, braking in different conditions, and maintaining safe following distances.

5

Hazard awareness

Identifying hazards, anticipating danger, and responding appropriately to reduce risk.

6

Vulnerable road users

Sharing the road with pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, horse riders, and elderly or disabled users.

7

Other types of vehicle

Dealing with large vehicles, motorcycles, powered wheelchairs, and other road users with different characteristics.

8

Vehicle handling

Driving in different weather conditions, on different road surfaces, and at night.

9

Motorway rules

Lane discipline, joining and leaving motorways, speed limits, breakdowns, and smart motorways.

10

Rules of the road

Speed limits, lane markings, road junctions, roundabouts, pedestrian crossings, and parking rules.

11

Road and traffic signs

Warning signs, regulatory signs, informational signs, road markings, and traffic signals.

12

Documents

Driving licences, insurance, MOT certificates, and vehicle registration documents.

13

Accidents

First aid basics, what to do at the scene of an accident, reporting requirements, and dealing with breakdowns.

14

Vehicle loading

Safe loading of passengers and cargo, roof racks, trailers, and towing regulations.

Key Facts

Theory test at a glance

Multiple choice

50 questions

Randomly selected from a bank of over 700 questions

Time allowed

57 minutes

Most candidates finish with time to spare for reviewing

Pass mark

43 out of 50

That is 86% — a high bar that requires thorough revision

Hazard perception

14 video clips

Separate section with its own pass mark of 44 out of 75

Test fee

£23

Book online at gov.uk — available at test centres across the UK

Certificate validity

2 years

You must pass your practical test within 2 years or retake

Average pass rate

~49%

Roughly half of all candidates fail the theory test. Thorough revision using practice questions and mock tests is the best way to improve your chances of passing first time.

Study Advice

Tips for passing the theory test

With the right preparation, the theory test is very achievable. Here are the study strategies that work best:

1

Start early and study consistently

Give yourself at least 2–3 weeks of daily revision. Short, focused sessions are more effective than last-minute cramming. Aim for 20–30 minutes per day.

2

Use the Highway Code

The Highway Code is the foundation of the theory test. Read it thoroughly at least once, and refer back to sections you find challenging. Many questions test direct Highway Code knowledge.

3

Take practice tests under timed conditions

Once you are scoring consistently well in practice, try completing 50 questions within 57 minutes. This builds familiarity with the pace of the real test.

4

Focus on your weak topics

After each practice session, note which topics you get wrong most often. Spend extra time revising those areas rather than repeating topics you already know.

5

Learn stopping distances by heart

Stopping distances are one of the most commonly tested topics. Memorise the thinking distance, braking distance, and overall stopping distance for 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, and 70 mph.

6

Do not neglect hazard perception

Many learners focus only on the multiple-choice section. The hazard perception test is a separate part of the theory test and has its own pass mark (44 out of 75). Practise with official DVSA clips.

Your Journey

From learner to full licence

The theory test is one step on the road to your full driving licence. Here is how the whole process works:

Step 1

Get your provisional licence

Apply online at gov.uk from age 15 years and 9 months. You can start learning to drive when you turn 17.

Step 2 — You are here

Pass the theory test

Study the Highway Code and revise with practice questions. You need 43 out of 50 on multiple choice, plus 44 out of 75 on hazard perception.

Step 3

Take driving lessons

Most learners need 40–50 hours of professional instruction plus 20–30 hours of private practice. The DVSA recommends a mix of both.

Step 4

Pass the practical test

A 40-minute on-road test including independent driving, manoeuvres, and an eyesight check. You must pass within 2 years of your theory test.

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the real driving theory test?
The real DVSA driving theory test has 50 multiple-choice questions. You have 57 minutes to complete them. This is followed by a hazard perception test with 14 video clips.
What is the pass mark for the theory test?
You need to score at least 43 out of 50 (86%) on the multiple-choice section to pass. You also need to pass the hazard perception section separately — the pass mark for that is 44 out of 75.
How much does the theory test cost?
The DVSA theory test costs £23. You can book it online at gov.uk. Tests are held at theory test centres across the UK.
How long is a theory test pass valid for?
Your theory test pass certificate is valid for 2 years from the date you passed. You must take and pass your practical driving test within this period, or you will need to retake the theory test.
What topics are covered in the theory test?
The theory test covers 14 topics: alertness, attitude, safety and your vehicle, safety margins, hazard awareness, vulnerable road users, other types of vehicle, vehicle handling, motorway rules, rules of the road, road and traffic signs, documents, accidents, and vehicle loading.
Is this taster the same as the real test?
This taster uses 10 randomly-selected questions from the same categories covered in the real DVSA theory test. The real test has 50 questions and is timed (57 minutes). Create a free DrivePro account to practise with all 727 questions, track your progress, and take full mock exams.
How many times can you fail the theory test?
There is no limit on the number of times you can take the theory test. If you fail, you must wait at least 3 working days before rebooking. Each attempt costs £23. Many learners pass on their second or third attempt after additional revision.
Can you use your phone in the theory test?
No. Mobile phones and all electronic devices must be switched off and stored in a locker before you enter the test room. If you are found with a phone during the test, your result will be voided and you will lose your fee. Smart watches are also not permitted.
What happens if my theory test expires?
Your theory test certificate is valid for 2 years. If it expires before you pass your practical driving test, you must retake and pass the theory test again before you can book another practical test. There is no extension or grace period.
How to book a theory test
You can book your theory test online at gov.uk/book-theory-test or by calling the DVSA on 0300 200 1122. You will need your provisional driving licence number. Tests are available at theory test centres across the UK, and you can choose a date, time, and location that suits you.
Can I take the theory test online?
No. The DVSA theory test must be taken in person at an official theory test centre. There is no option to take it remotely or online. Be wary of any website claiming to offer an official online theory test — these are not recognised by the DVSA.
What is the theory test pass rate?
The average pass rate for the car theory test is approximately 49%. This means roughly half of all candidates fail on their first attempt. Thorough revision using practice questions and mock tests significantly improves your chances of passing first time.