To prepare for the theory test the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) recommend that
all candidates study the Highway Code, Know Your Traffic Signs and the relevant
book from DSA's Driving Skills series. Regardless of driving experience, candidates
should make full use of the available study material to prepare for the multiple
choice and hazard perception elements of the theory test.
Preparing for the theory test
The driving theory test has two parts, part one is a multiple choice test of 35
questions and part two is a hazard perception test of 14 video clips in which you
will have to identify 15 developing hazards.
To prepare for both parts of the theory test we recommend that all candidates, regardless
of driving experience, use the resource material available. The resource material
is available from most high street book shops and from the DSA official online bookstore
- the link below will take you to the DSA bookstore website.
With your first theory test booking confirmation letter, DSA send you a DVD called
"Are you ready?"
which you should watch as this explains the process of taking
the theory test.
Practise multiple choice questions online
DSA also provide an online service that allows you to test your knowledge and understanding
of the Highway Code, Know Your Traffic Signs and the Essential Skills series of
books. The practise theory tests only contain multiple choice questions and do not
allow you to practise the hazard perception test online. Scoring more than 30 out
of 35 on this test does not guarantee a pass when you take the real theory test
under proper exam conditions.
If you want to practise a multiple choice test online, please click on the link
below.
Multiple choice
To prepare for the multiple choice part of the theory test, there are three books
known as the source material, these include The Highway Code, Know Your Traffic
Signs, and the relevant vehicle Driving Skills series.
The complete set of theory test questions and answers is also available in book
and CD-ROM format.
Hazard perception
The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) has developed a modular, multi-media training
resource for the hazard perception test. The resource is available in DVD and VHS
video format and is called 'The official guide to hazard perception'; this was formerly
known as 'Roadsense'.
This training resource adopts a structured approach to defining hazards, looking
for clues, the 'mirror- signal- manoeuvre' routine, scanning and planning, prioritising,
cutting down the risks and responding to hazards. The DVD also has a number of interactive,
example hazard perception video clips.
The hazard perception training material has been developed, not as a 'teach yourself'
product, but as one where guidance from a professional trainer is essential.
Integrating theoretical hazard perception training into the practical training sessions
will ensure that as competence is achieved in each of the necessary skills, they
can be strengthened and applied while you are on the road to increase the road safety
benefits.
All of these products are available to buy from most high street book shops, they
are also available to order over the phone and online through The Stationery Office.