From 14 April 2020, the car theory test in England, Scotland and Wales will be changing. You’re probably wondering what is different about the new driving theory test. Below is a quick update on what to expect of the new car theory test.
How is the new theory test going to be different?
You will no longer be required to read a case study and then answer 5 questions about it. Instead you’ll watch a short, silent video clip and answer 3 multiple-choice questions about it.
You’ll be able to watch the video clip as many times as you like during the multiple choice part of the test.
What will the new video clip will look like?
The video clip will be similar to the clips shown in the hazard perception test. The video clip will show a real-life situation such as driving through a town centre, or driving on a country road. Below is an example of what the video clip will look like in the new test.
Below are 3 example questions the DVSA has provided for the video clip above:
1 – Why are motorcyclists considered vulnerable road users?
2 – Why should the driver, on the side road, look out for motorcyclists at junctions?
3 – In this clip, who can cross the chevrons to overtake other vehicles, when it’s safe to do so?
Who will be affected by this change?
Presently, car theory tests have been suspended up to and including 20th April 2020 due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Anyone who has a test booked that falls within this time, will get an email to say that their theory test has been cancelled and will get a full refund.
You’ll then have to book a test for a date and time after 20th April 2020. This will mean that you will have to carry out the new car theory test.
There has only been a change to the car theory test, so if you are taking one of the following types of theory test, it will remain the same:
- Motorcycle
- Lorry
- Bus or Coach
- Approved Driver Instructor (ADI) Training – Part 1
Will anything else change?
Everything else in the car theory test will remain the same. You will still need to answer 50 multiple choice questions and get 43 correct in order to pass. The hazard perception part of the test remains the same and you will need to get a score of 44 out of 75 to pass.
The good news is that if you have previously taken the test and failed or your theory test certificate has expired, you will still be able to use the same books and software to prepare for your theory test.
Support for those with a disability, health condition or reading difficulties
Although the car theory test is changing, you are still able to have reasonable adjustments made to your theory test if you have any of the above. This includes having extra time to take the test, having someone read the questions to you or having someone to reword the questions for you.
A Word of Advice
Here are a few tips to help you with your car theory test:
- Take as many mock tests as you can before going for your test. You are ready for your theory if you are passing every single mock test that you take.
- Read all the materials the theory test is based on so you are equipped with all the knowledge that you could be tested on. The multiple choice questions are chosen at random and there are over 1000 questions that can potentially be asked.
- Ensure that you are able to pass a mock test within 57 minutes so you can get through all the questions on the day without any worries.
- Consider taking driving lessons whilst revising for your theory test. This will allow you to identify real life hazards whilst driving.
Good Luck!
