The Theory Test for Car Drivers and
Motorcyclists was introduced in July 1996. It was designed to improve road
safety.
Included in the test is driver's attitude, traffic signs and regulations,
effects of alcohol, drugs and fatigue on driver's behaviour, the safety
and environmental aspects of vehicles. As from 14th November 2002 the
Hazard Perception Test was added to the Theory Test.
The first part of the Theory Test consists of 35 randomly picked
multiple-choice questions from the DSA question bank, in which you must
get at least 30 questions correct to pass, you have 40 minutes to complete
this section. No two theory test have the same questions, and can be
about any of the above subjects.
Once you have completed this part of the test you will have around a 3
minute break, at which time you will then start your Hazard Perception
Test. This will include 14 short film clips where you will have to
identify 15 hazards. One film clip may only contain 2 hazards so you must
concentrate on each clip. Each hazard will require you to take some form
of action such as change speed or direction; this is done by clicking the
left or right mouse button, you will only be able to see the film clip
once there is no going back.
You will be marked on the number of hazards that you correctly identify,
each hazard is marked from one to five, the sooner you see the hazard the
higher your score. If you randomly click the mouse button then you will
receive a zero score, to pass the Hazard Test you must score 38 marks out
of a possible 75, this will increase to 44 out of 75 in September 2003.
You must pass both the Hazard Perception and the multiple-choice questions
to pass the Theory Test. Once you have passed your Theory Test you must
pass your Practical Test within 2 years, if this is not achieved you will
have to retake the Theory Test.
Contrary to popular belief the Theory Test is not easy and does not just
consist of identifying road signs. The only way to pass first time is to
thoroughly study the material available.
