How to Pass Your Theory Test First Time

Theory vs practical test

Many new drivers worry about how they’ll perform in the practical driving test. With challenges like lane changing, parallel parking and motorway driving on the cards, passing your practical driving test is definitely a challenge. But what many learner drivers don’t realise is the importance of the theory test. It’s designed to get you up to speed on all the basic road rules before you get behind the wheel. This includes demonstrating a good understanding of the Highway Code.

Figuring out how to pass your theory test is important, as you can’t book your practical driving test until you’ve passed. Your theory test is the second step you’ll take when working towards gaining your full UK driving licence. You must be at least 17 years old before taking the theory test, unless you qualify for the Personal Independence Payment. In this case, you can sit the test after you turn 16.

The first step is applying for your provisional licence, which allows you to drive on UK roads while supervised. You’ll need to be at least 15 years and 9 months old before you can apply for your provisional licence. Your supervisor must be aged 21 years or older and have held a full driving licence for at least three years.

What to expect from the theory test

Wondering how to pass your theory test the first time? Knowing what to expect is key. Questions in the UK driving theory test are based on guides published by the Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). This includes the Highway Code, as well as publications like Know Your Traffic Signs and The Official DVSA Guide to Driving.

The test is split into two sections – a multiple choice questionnaire and a practical hazard perception test. You’ll need to sit both on the same day, though you can take a short break between the two tests if you like. Understanding the format of the driving theory test is one of the best ways to pass the first time. Instead of being surprised by the questions or structure, you’ll be armed with an in-depth understanding of the test and its different elements.

Let’s take a closer look at each section:

Multiple choice questionnaire

This section features around 50 multiple choice questions, all relating to driving rules and safety. The focus is on real-life situations you might encounter while driving on British roads. If you’re wondering how to pass your theory test the first time, familiarising yourself with the Highway Code is one of the best ways to prepare.

Questions are selected randomly from a pool of around 1000 questions. This means you can expect to see all kinds of topics and scenarios covered in your multiple-choice questionnaire.

You’ll have just under one hour to complete all 50 questions. Don’t worry, you can get a few wrong. But you’ll need to get at least 43 right to score a pass. We recommend allocating around one minute to each question. This gives you time to go back at the end and review your answers or allocate extra time to difficult questions. Don’t stress if you get stuck on a question. You can always come back to it at the end.

Hazard perception

This section features a series of video clips from the perspective of a motorist. As you watch the clips, you’ll be asked to identify potential hazards, such as pedestrians preparing to cross the road and cars pulling out from intersections. Passengers opening doors onto the road are another common danger featured in the hazard perception section.

The hazard perception test lasts for around 20 minutes, and you’ll need to score 44 out of 75 to pass. It seems like a long time to be looking out for potential hazards. But in reality, it simply mimics the level of alertness you’ll need to replicate when driving in real life. Paying close attention throughout the hazard perception assessment is one of our top tips when it comes to how to pass your theory test.  

Practice makes perfect

As the old saying goes, practice makes perfect. If you’re wondering how to pass your theory test the first time, practice is essential. Just like studying for an exam, it’s important to put in the effort before sitting your theory test.

Mock theory tests are the best way to practise for your exam. You can easily source mock theory tests online for free, so no excuses!

The next step: practical test

Once you’ve passed your theory test, the next step is sitting your practical driving exam. Once again, practice is key. Get in as much practice as possible with your driving instructor or a qualified friend or family member before sitting the practical test. This is the best way to boost your confidence in the driver’s seat.

After passing your theory test, you have two years to pass your practical driving test. If you don’t pass within the two-year timeframe, you’ll need to sit your theory test again.

Funding your first car

Now you know how to pass your theory test, the next step is securing the keys to your own set of wheels. This is where we come in. At My Car Credit, we specialise in getting Brits behind the wheel of their dream cars.

Can you get car finance at 18? Absolutely. We help motorists of all ages secure the best deals on car finance, even if you’re still in your teens. Give us a call today to chat to a friendly team member and find out more.