You must pass the Theory Test before you can book the Practical Test (the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) will ask for your Theory Test certificate number). You cannot take the Theory Test until you are 17 years of age.

The Theory Test can be booked by phone on 0300 200 1122, or online at www.direct.gov.uk/motoring. You will need a debit or credit card to use these methods, which also enable you to choose your test time. Alternatively to pay by cheque, application forms are available at Post Offices.

want2PASS does not normally book the theory test for clients because it is easier for you to check availability direct and make your own appointment

The Theory Test is not difficult given the demanding situation of Britain’s roads. It is divided into two parts - the Multiple Choice element and then the Hazard Perception element. The whole thing takes around an hour and is performed on a computer, but you do not need experience of computers. Both parts of the test are taken on the same day at the same test centre, and you must pass both together. The Hazard Perception Test (HPT) checks your ability to identify and react to ‘developing hazards’ in everyday driving situations. It comprises a series of film clips shown on the computer, and to which you have to react by clicking the mouse.

If you have access to a PC want2PASS strongly recommend you use one of the CD-rom or DVD packages. These are available from want2PASS or from PC World and most bookshops priced around £9.99. They will enable you to learn the syllabus and carry out mock tests on yourself to ensure you are ready for the real thing.

The Multiple Choice Test

The multiple choice test is taken first - you select answers by simply touching a computer screen. This touch-screen system has been carefully designed to make sure it is easy to use. A faulty mouse may affect your score in the hazard perception test, so, if the system allows you to use the mouse instead – want2PASS recommend you use the mouse; make sure it works well as you need it for the HPT.

You have an opportunity to work through a practice session lasting up to 15 minutes to get used to the system before starting the actual test. Do this! Staff at the test centres are on hand to help you. If you have any difficulties in using the system, tell them as soon as you realise – don’t wait till the end.

Only one question appears on the screen at a time. You can move backwards and forwards through the questions. Answer the questions you find easy first then go back to review the harder ones. You can change your mind and alter answers before you ‘close’ the test.

You have to answer 50 questions and you currently need to answer 43 questions correctly to pass this element of the theory test.

The multiple choice test covers the following:

• Alertness
• Safety and Your Vehicle
• Safety Margins
• Hazard Awareness
• Vulnerable Road Users
• Other Types of Vehicle
• Motorway Rules
• Rules of the Road
• Road and Traffic Signs
• Documents
• Accidents
• Attitude
• Vehicle Loading and Handling
• Environmental Issues

The Hazard Perception Test

The Hazard Perception Test is taken after the Multiple Choice Test and takes approximately 15 minutes to complete.

What does hazard perception mean? Hazard perception means the ability and skill to identify potentially dangerous situations as they arise. As a motorist, you do this by scanning the area ahead and anticipating developing situations. The test is designed to identify if you spot these ‘Developing Hazards’.

A Developing Hazard is something which causes you to change speed or direction.

The Hazard Perception Test consists of 14 one minute video clips, filmed from a car. Each clip contains one or two developing hazards which the candidate has to identify. Candidates are asked to imagine they are driving the car and indicate (by clicking the mouse) as soon as they see a hazard which may require them to take action. Marks are based on the candidate's responses (mouse clicks) to the hazards.

Some things to note:

• You do not have to point the mouse at the hazard. Just click it when you see the hazard developing.
• The sooner a hazard is detected the higher the score.
• Only developing hazards are scored – but responses made to other hazards will not lose points.
• If you randomly click in the hope of hitting the right moments the system will disqualify you for that clip, so avoid clicking too rhythmically.
• It is important to click once when you think the hazard is developing and again once or twice afterwards so that if the first click was too soon, the second one will register.
• If you think there is a second hazard soon after, then click at that one too (the first may have been a non-developing one, or there may be two scoring hazards in the clip).

You will be given your results for both the Multiple Choice Test and the Hazard Perception Test before you leave the test centre. If you fail the Theory Test then you have to wait three clear working days before you can take it again.

Arrive in good time at least 15 minutes before the test starts. If you are late you may miss your slot and have to re-book. There is usually a WC at the test centre. You will be asked to leave personal possessions in a locker, so try not to arrive with a load of shopping!

What to take with you when attending a theory test

• The confirmation letter (or at least the reference number you were given over the phone, if it was a short notice test).
• Both parts of your signed driving licence.