DSA Theory Test (DVLA Theory Test) and the Driving Theory Test. Practice and Booking Information.

DSA Theory Tests

HGV / LGV / PSV Theory Test

Car Theory Test

A driving theory test (DSA Theory Test, also referred to as the DVLA Theory Test) needs to be passed before a practical test can be booked or taken. These driving theory tests should be relatively easy provided adequate study is made. There are plenty of books available but to be fully prepared for the Hazard Perception Test, practice by way of CD Rom's will give a more realistic feel of how the actual theory test will be. The range of 'Practice Theory Test' products by Driving Test Success are excellent for this.

Below are details about the Theory Test.  Some driving schools / instructors will also provide assistance and training for the Theory Test.

The DSA Theory Test for Car Drivers and Motorcyclists (DVLA Theory Test)was introduced in July 1996.  It is designed to improve the safety of newly qualified riders and drivers by making them think carefully about the right attitudes needed to drive safely on today's busy roads.

The fee for the theory test for car drivers is £30.00

Areas of assessment include:-

* driver attitude
* traffic signs and regulations
* effects of alcohol, drugs and fatigue on driver behaviour
* safety and environmental aspects of vehicles.
* recognition of hazardous situations 

The test is split into two parts. The first consists of a multiple choice question section. To pass this part you must answer 43 out of 50 questions correctly. The second part is the hazard perception test.  The pass mark for this part of the test is 44 out of 75.  Candidates must pass both parts of the test to obtain a test certificate.

To prepare properly for the theory test we strongly recommend that you study the books from which the questions are taken.  These books, known as the source material, consist of The Highway Code, Know Your Traffic Signs and the appropriate Official Driving Manual for the vehicle category in which you are taking your test.

To help you practice for your theory test the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) also publish a series of books and CD-ROMs.  These contain the official question bank and uses screen layouts which look similar to those used in the actual test.

These will help you to familiarise yourself with the format and content of the test and enable you to practice mock tests.

It is important that you study - not only to pass the test - but also to become a safe driver.  More information on the study materials available can be found at www.dsa.gov.uk.  These should be available locally at The Stationery Office, 16 Arthur Street, Belfast. Tel :028 90 238451 or any good bookshop.

When you take the theory test, you’ll be asked some specific questions regarding the category of vehicle being tested, as well as questions that apply to all road users.

You do not have to pass your theory test to learn how to drive. The DVTA recommends that you have practical lessons before you take your theory test because you are likely to perform better if you have some driving experience. You can choose how to prepare yourself for your theory and practical driving tests.  It is generally the case that learner drivers who have plenty of practice and who receive professional instruction perform well.

The Driving Theory Test is available six days a week depending upon the demand. Weekday, evening and Saturday test sessions are available.

Candidates who have special needs may apply to have longer than the standard time to take their test.

Candidates who have dyslexia or other reading or learning difficulties may listen to the test through a head set.  Voiceovers are also available in 20 languages other than English.  A video of the test in British sign language is available for candidates who are deaf or hard of hearing.  If you need any of these facilities please speak to the call centre when you ring to book your test.

See also Driving Theory Test - Theory Test Help

Theory Test for LGV & PCV Drivers

The fee for the theory test for LGV & PCV drivers is £32.00.  The Theory Test consists of two parts.  The first part is the multiple choice question section.  To pass the exam you must answer at least 44 out of 50 questions correctly.  You answer the questions by touching the computer screen to select the answers from the selection shown.

To become a professional driver you must have a thorough knowledge of the regulations that apply to your work.  The questions in the theory test will test you on this knowledge. Combined with a high level of driving skill, this will ensure that you carry out your work safely.

The topics covered by the test are:

* Vehicle weights and dimensions
* Drivers’ hours and rest periods
* Braking systems and speed limiters
* Attitude and alertness
* Carrying passengers
* Safety and hazard awareness
* Accident handling
* Vehicle condition
* Leaving the vehicle
* Vehicle loading
* Restricted view
* Overtaking
* Environmental issues
* Windy weather
* Heavy rain
* Traffic signs 

From 1 April 2003, the topics will be expanded to include the following :

* Vehicle and transport documents required for the national and international carriage of goods and passengers
* The precautions to be taken during the removal and replacement of wheels
* Loading and unloading goods and the use of loading equipment (lorries only)
* The principles of the construction and functioning of internal combustion engines and fuel, electrical, ignition and transmission systems
* Lubrication and antifreeze protection
* The principles of the construction, fitting, and correct use and care of tyres
* The principles of the types, operation, main parts, connection, use and day to day maintenance of brake fittings, speed governers and coupling systems and the use of anti-lock brakes
* Methods of locating causes of breakdowns
* Preventative maintenance of vehicles and necessary running repairs
* The drivers responsibility in respect of receipt, carriage and delivery of goods in accordance with the agreed conditions (lorries only) 

The second part is the hazard perception test consisting of 14 video clips.  You press the mouse button as soon as you see a hazard developing.  The pass mark for the hazard perception component of the category C and D theory test is 50 out of 75.

To help people prepare and study for the theory test we recommend the following publications:

The Highway code
Books from the Essential Skills series
Know Your Traffic Signs
The Goods Vehicle Driving Manual
The Bus and Coach Driving Manual
The Official Theory Test Books and CD - ROMS
The Official guide to hazard perception formerly roadsense CD-ROM

It is important that you study - not only to pass the test - but also to become a safe driver.  More information on the study materials available can be found at www.dsa.gov.uk.  These should be available locally at The Stationery Office, 16 Arthur Street, Belfast. Tel: 028 90 238451 or any good bookshop.

When you take the theory test, you’ll be asked some specific questions regarding the category of vehicle being tested, as well as questions that apply to all road users.

You do not have to pass your theory test to learn how to drive.  The DVTA recommends that you have practical lessons before you take your theory test because you are likely to perform better if you have some driving experience.  You can choose how to prepare yourself for your theory and practical driving tests. It is generally the case that learner drivers who have plenty of practice and who receive professional instruction perform well.

Theory Tests are available six days a week depending upon the demand.  Weekday, evening and Saturday test sessions are available. Arrangements can be made for candidates with special needs.  You must tell Booking Section Staff about your special needs when you book your test.

Take heed of this advice and your driver theory test should not cause a problem. There are links below for Theory Test Booking and for practice theory test.

Source www.dvtani.gov.uk

Theory Test Booking - Here
Practice Theory Test - Here & Here