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Theory
& Hazard Perception Test.... |
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The
Theory
& Hazard Perception Test....
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Since 3rd
of September 2007 you
will be asked to answer 50 multiple-choice questions,
followed by a test of your hazard perception skills.
You will need to pass both parts of the theory test
at the same sitting to obtain your theory test pass
certificate.
Why has the test changed?
Each year around 3,400 people are killed on Britain's
roads. New drivers take much longer to recognise
hazardous situations than more experienced drivers,
and many driving test candidates have poor scanning
and anticipation skills. These skills are vital
for safe driving. By introducing the new hazard
perception part to the test, we hope to encourage
more drivers to develop hazard perception skills
while they are still learning to drive.
What is the multiple-choice part of the
test?
This part consists of 50 multiple-choice questions
covering a wide range of driving topics. By touching
the screen, you select an answer, or answers, from
the selection shown. To pass you must answer 43
or more questions correctly in 57 minutes. You have
the option of working through a practice session
lasting up to 15 minutes to get used to the system
before starting the actual test.
How does the hazard perception part work?
After a break of up to three minutes, the hazard
perception part will start. You will be shown a
tutorial video first. This uses sample footage with
a sound track (headphones supplied), which will
explain how to complete this part of the test. You
may repeat the tutorial once more if you wish. The
test consists of 14 video clips, each lasting about
one minute. The clips feature various types of hazards,
such as vehicles, pedestrians and road conditions.
You should respond by pressing a mouse button as
soon as you see a hazard developing that may result
in the driver having to take some action, such as
changing speed or direction. The earlier the developing
hazard is spotted, and a response made, the higher
the score. Candidates can score up to five marks
on each hazard and the test contains 15 scoreable
hazards. The pass mark for this part of the test
is 44 out of 75 for car drivers and motorcycle riders.
How do candidates
with special needs sit the test?
Candidates who have special needs, which are not
met by any of the facilities listed below, may apply
to have longer than the standard time of 40 minutes
to take the multiple-choice part. Such requests
should be made when booking the test.
Facilities for candidates with special needs include:
- for car and motorcycle candidates, using a headset
to listen to the test being read in one of 20 other
languages. This will help candidates who do not
understand or read English, or who wish to take
the test in their first language. These languages
include Welsh.
- large goods vehicle drivers and passenger carrying
vehicle drivers can use a headset to listen to the
test being read in English and Welsh.
- for all candidates, using a headset to listen
to the test being read in English. This helps those
with dyslexia and other reading difficulties.
- an on-screen video of the test being signed in
British Sign Language for car and motorcycle candidates
who are deaf or have other hearing difficulties.
Preparing for the new theory test It is strongly
recommended that all candidates prepare thoroughly
for the test. Suggested reading matter includes
'The Highway Code' and 'Know Your Traffic Signs'.
In addition to this there are official theory test
books and CD-Roms containing the multiple choice
questions. The CD-Roms show screens similar to those
used in the multiple choice part of the test and
information about hazard perception. There is also
a DVD or video and booklet package called 'RoadSense',
which is the official guide to hazard perception
for all drivers and riders. Being a safe driver
with good hazard perception skills means being able
to use speed correctly, keeping the correct distance
between yourself and other road users, scanning
the road effectively, anticipating and planning
for potential hazards. All these skills can be taught
effectively. You should prepare with a professional
instructor as part of a structured programme of
on-road tuition, covering the recommended syllabus.
Booking your theory
test
Master Card, Visa, Switch, Delta, Solo and Electron
are accepted.
Application forms are available from test centres,
Approved Driving Instructors or the booking number
opposite. Forms need to be sent with a cheque, postal
order or credit or debit card details.
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Book
Your Theory Test Online |
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www.dsa.gov.uk
www.motoring.gov.uk
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Tel: 0870 01 01 372
Ordering Learning Materials
For videos including RoadSense, Inside View 2 and
What if? for cars or motorcycles:
Tel: 0870 241 4523
Fax: 01709 881 673
For theory test CD-Roms
for cars and motorcycles or large goods vehicles
and passenger carrying vehicles:
Tel: 0870 241 4523
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