Drive Dynamics - How to pass your driving theory test

Getting behind the wheel of a car for the first time after passing your driving test is an exciting thing. The prospect of endless freedom to go where you want is great, but to get there in the first place, you need to pass your driving theory test.

The theory test must be taken and passed in order for you to be able to book and take your practical driving test, so it’s essential to pass with flying colours first time around if you want that freedom of not relying on mum and dad for lifts everywhere.

In short, the driving theory test is made up of two components - a multiple-choice section and the hazard perception test. We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you pass your driving theory test first time - explaining what it is, what you need to do to pass and what happens next once you've aced it. There’s also a separate guide on the hazard perception test, too.

• How to get your driving licence

What is the driving theory test?
The UK driving theory test is the first part of gaining your full driving licence. It must be taken before the practical test and aims to test your knowledge of the Highway Code and driving in the UK. Questions are based on official DVSA guides: The Official Highway Code, Know Your Traffic Signs and The Official DVSA Guide To Driving.

There are plenty of mock theory tests available online, the majority of which are free, so it’s a good idea to take a practice theory test to get used to the structure of the test and know what to expect.

• Practical driving test: top tips for passing

To take a theory test, you must book in advance at an approved driving theory test centre. At the end of the test, you will receive your results and, if you pass, a certificate, which is valid for two years. If you do not pass your practical driving test within two years of passing your theory, you will have to retake the theory test again.

Driving theory test fees stand at £25 for a standard car theory test but as of October 2015, it will be reduced to £23.

At the test centre, you will need your photocard driving licence with you. If you have a paper licence, you need to have your signed driving licence and a valid passport in order to take the test. If, for some reason, you don't have these, either update your licence to a photocard licence or get a passport. If not, you won't be able to take your test!

In terms of pass rates, the driving theory test currently sits at 50.7 per cent, a figure that’s decreased consistently in recent years.
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