What To Expect On The Day Of Your Theory Test

So you have spent hours upon hours revising and you are finally ready to take what will be the first major step towards taking your practical driving test and finally getting out on the road without the supervision of a driving instructor.

The driving theory test is the first major hurdle you will need to overcome as a learner, so it is important that you understand what you are letting yourself in for. We have already offered advice on what you need to do to prepare, so here we will talk about what you can expect to happen on the day of the test itself.

Get There Early

You should be fully aware of the time, date and location of your theory test. Consider traveling to the location ahead of time so you know where you are meant to be going. On the day of the test itself, try to arrive a little early. This will give you the chance to settle in relax and perhaps even do a little last minute revision.

The Test Room

In most cases the test room will be fairly simple. There will be somebody at the front desk who will take your paperwork and set you up with a computer. Make sure you bring your licence and any other relevant documentation you have been asked for.

You will be asked to empty your pockets of all valuables and anything that could be used to help with the test. These items will be placed in a secure locker and can be retrieved once the test has been completed.

The test room itself will essentially be a bank of computers, some of which will be occupied by current test takers. Keep quiet and go to the computer that has been assigned to you.

Getting Started

Take a moment to familiarise yourself with the computer’s layout. You won’t be given any choice in terms of what the computer can do, so starting the test shouldn’t be a problem. The multiple choice questions portion will generally be answered with a touch sensitive screen, whereas the hazard perception test will make use of a mouse.

Before you start the assessed part of the test you will be offered the opportunity to take a fifteen minute practice session. We recommend doing this as it will allow you to get comfortable with the machine and how you will need to answer questions.

You will also be given a practice question before starting each of the two tests. Pay attention with the hazard perception one so you can detect any slight delays in your mouse click registering on the screen.

Upon Completion

If you pass the test you have two years from the date of passing to book your practical test. You should receive a letter confirming that you have passed, which needs to be kept safe as you will need it for the practical test.

If you fail, don’t fret. The theory test has a pass rate that is below 50%. Just pick yourself up and wait for the three required days before booking in again. On the second time round you will have a better idea of what to expect.