The driving theory test is the first exam you take towards getting a driving license in the UK. It presented a 47% pass rate in 2020 which means you have a fat chance to fail if you aren’t prepared. But preparation is easy and you only have to study the relevant material and practice the mock exams to increase your chances to pass. Here are 10 tips to pass the theory test on the first attempt.
Know the Stats
The multiple-choice section has 50 questions and you need to get at least 43 of them correct to pass. This section will assess your knowledge of Highway Code. The second section of the test is hazard perception. In 45 minutes of the hazard perception test, you see 14 videos and try to score more than 44 points on a 75-point test.
Allow Enough Time to Prepare
If you have been driving with a provisional license, you can allow one month to learn the theory. But if you haven’t practiced driving under supervision, allow enough time – two to three months – to get behind the wheel as well as brush your Highway code. Note that practical experience increases your understanding of the road and driving safely, thus, increasing your chances of success.
Study and Practice with Official Sources
DVSA uses three books as references while creating multiple-choice questions for the theory test. These include The Highway Code, Know your traffic signs, and The official DVSA guide to driving.
To prepare for the hazard perception test, you can subscribe to the DVSA guide for the hazard perception test. This resource includes 130 hazard video clips for your practice. Or you may combine the preparation of the two sections by subscribing to the combined theory test and hazard perception test kit from DVSA.
Practice and Repeat
Driving theory test is like any other exam. You will absorb the study material more with time and practice. Take notes and revise the theory until you have memorized it. keep testing your knowledge using the tests you have created or using online resources and tests.
Drive under Supervision
Although you cannot drive on the road without supervision before getting a license, a provisional driving license allows you to drive under supervision. Start practising driving to understand the possible hazards and how you can deal with them. You can also prepare for the hazard perception test when you are only riding as a passenger. Be a proactive passenger and consider every traffic sign or developing hazard on the road.
Practice Timed Test
One of the key reasons for the failure of the UK theory test is its time limitation. People fail to understand the question correctly because of concerns about time. One way to counter this concern is by practicing timed mock tests to train your brain to think quickly.
Also, take the mock test offered by DVSA. It will give you a feel of the types of questions that may arise in the exam.
Prepare for the Exam
Make sure to be well-rested for the exam. It is a timed exam that depends heavily on your senses and reflexes. Get a good night’s sleep the night before the exam to remain alert and agile during the exam. It is recommended to revise the study material and notes in the evening. But don’t study till late at night. Also, don’t sleep in on exam day.
Know the route and destination for the exam and plan your commute accordingly. Reach the exam center in time to grab coffee after reaching there.
Understand the Question Well
Don’t rush to answer the question. You will have roughly 1 minute to study a question and answer it. Take your time to understand it. If you cannot answer right away, flag it so you can return to it after attempting other questions.
Take the Break
You will get a 3-minute break between the 57-minute test and the 45-minute hazard perception test. Use this break to relax. Don’t jump into the hazard perception test just because you want to get over the exam. This break will allow your brain to prepare for the next phase that is heavily reliant on your senses.
Take Your Time for Hazard Perception
Let the hazard develop before spotting. You don’t want to miss the chance as you have only shot at hazard perception answers.
Take Away
The pass rate for the UK theory test isn’t too bright. You can only rely on your preparation and exam-attempting strategy to get through it. This article discusses 10 tips to pass it on the first attempt.
