About the Driving Tests
To learn to drive you must be 17 years of age and hold a provisional driving licence. To obtain a full driving licence you must undertake the following:
Theory test
The DSA theory test is a computer based test which you must pass before you can book and sit a practical driving test. The test is split into 2 sections, multiple choice questions and a hazard perception test. There are 50 questions in the first section and you must score 43 out of 50 to pass. In the hazard perception test there are 14 clips, each clip is worth a possible 5 marks with one clip scoring a possible 10 marks ( two scoring hazards). The pass mark in this section is 44 out of 75. You must pass both sections to pass your theory test, if you fail on one section you will be required to resit the complete test again. Your theory test certificate is then valid for two years from date of passing.
Practical driving test
Before starting your drive the driving examiner will test your eyesight by asking you to read a registration number at 20 metres, they will then ask you one 'tell me' question and the 'show me' question will now be asked whilst driving.
The driving test itself will last approx 40 minutes and will go over a predetermined test route, which may include the use of a Sat Nav. During the test the examiner will be assessing your general driving. They will be assessing your car control, safety and legality, if you can do this then you should pass your driving test. During the driving test you will be asked to carry out one reversing manoeuvre out of a possible 4, you may also be asked to carry out a controlled stop.
At the end of the test the examiner will go through the drive with you and give you your result. If you have passed he/she will issue you with a pass certificate, if unfortunately you have failed they will explain where you went wrong. A fail can result in a serious or dangerous fault or an accumulation of driving errors(minor faults), you are allowed 15 driver faults. You cannot resit your driving test for 10 days after a fail.
