How the car theory test works

The two parts of the test, how long each takes, the pass marks, and what happens if you pass one part but not the other.

The car theory test has two parts, taken in one sitting. You must pass both. If you pass one and fail the other, you have to take the whole test again.

Part one: multiple choice

• 50 questions
• 57 minutes
• Pass mark: 43 out of 50

You can flag questions you are unsure about and come back to them, and you can change any answer until you finish the section. There is a short practice session first so you can get used to the screen — it does not count.

Most questions give you four options and one correct answer. Some ask for more than one answer, and the screen tells you how many to select. A few are based on a photograph or a case study.

Our standard mock test mirrors this structure exactly, including flagging and the review screen.

The break

You can take a break of up to three minutes between the two parts. Take it. The hazard perception section needs your full attention and there is no advantage in going straight into it.

Part two: hazard perception

• A set of video clips filmed from a driver’s point of view
• Each clip contains at least one developing hazard
• Up to 5 points for each developing hazard, depending on how early you spot it
• Pass mark: 44 out of 75

You click when you see a hazard beginning to develop. Clicking earlier scores more — but only within the scoring window, and only if the hazard really is developing. Clicking continuously or in a repeating pattern scores zero for that clip, because the system treats it as an attempt to game the scoring.

There is one clip containing two developing hazards. You cannot review or repeat a clip once it has played.

Our hazard perception section teaches the judgement using original illustrated scenarios. We do not host the official clips.

Your result

You get your result at the test centre shortly after you finish. If you pass, you are given a theory test pass certificate, and its number is what you need when you book your practical test.

The certificate is valid for two years. If you have not passed your practical test in that time, the theory certificate expires and you have to take it again.

What if you fail?

You can book another test, but there is a minimum waiting period of three clear working days before you can take it. Your result sheet shows which topic areas you lost marks in — that is the most useful piece of paper you will get all day.

See what to do if you fail.

Before you rely on any of this

Test format, fees and rules do change. We check this page monthly and show the date at the top, but the authority is always GOV.UK. This site is not affiliated with DVSA.