Unfortunately for learner drivers these days, the multiple-choice questions answered in a theory test are only half the battle.
That’s because it is quickly followed by the hazard perception exam -- a series of 14 questions which carry a total of 75 marks. Doing well here is crucial if you’re going to walk out of the test centre with a theory certificate. You need 44 marks to pass.
Need to practise instead of reading about it? Take a free practice test here: Hazard Perception Test.
Here, we’ve brought together key facts about the format of the test, the dos and don’ts of using the video-based system, and some useful examples of the “developing hazards” you’ll be tasked with detecting.
Once you have answered the 50 questions in the multiple-choice section, you are entitled to a three-minute break before embarking on the hazard perception test. It’s worth seizing this opportunity, as you’re going to be watching a series of videos filmed from the vantage point of a driving seat. The objective is simple: click as soon as you see a potential danger emerging. The short video clips you will see in the hazard perception test will contain both developing and potential hazards. A potential hazard is something you need to be aware of but does not require you to take any action. A developing hazard is a thing that would make you take some kind of action, for example slowing down, stopping or changing direction.
There’s an explanatory video (below) with helpful commentary over example footage before the questions begin. If you’re not fully clear on everything, it is possible to watch this clip twice.
Here’s a summary of the format:
The DVSA has created dozens of clips for its theory tests. This means it is rare two people will receive the same set of videos in their exam, and you won’t be shown identical clips in the unfortunate event you need to take a re-sit.
If a police car, ambulance, fire engine or another type of emergency vehicle is approaching with flashing lights or sirens, you will likely need to take urgent action by indicating and pulling over to the side of the road safely so they have sufficient room to get past.
Although you might be on a road with little traffic, the brake lights of a vehicle may suddenly come on, requiring you to reduce your speed with urgency to avoid a collision.
In a video clip, you may turn a corner to see several stationary cars along one side of the road. One urgent developing hazard which would require you to take action (and click immediately during your perception test) is a pedestrian suddenly emerging from in between two vehicles on the pavement and attempting to cross the road.
Youngsters are among the most vulnerable road users, and there is a chance they may step out into the road unexpectedly. In a real-world environment, you would need to adjust your speed accordingly and remain vigilant.
Bike users are a hazard because you need to give them plenty of extra room, and they can often emerge in unexpected places. This will likely be reflected in a hazard perception clip you are played. Remember: if a cyclist isn’t clearly indicating their intentions, it’s important to hold back instead of making an assumption.
A change in speed limit, an upcoming speed bump or traffic lights may crop up in your questions.
This is a hazard because of how your vehicle could end up damaged if you don’t adjust your speed accordingly. Surfaces may be uneven, and there may be workers on the road ahead. Temporarily speed limits may also be enforced.
Driving conditions such as wet and icy surfaces may make an appearance during your hazard perception questions, as well as fog which can considerably reduce the distance you can see on the road ahead.
There are plenty of videos on YouTube which simulate the clips used in hazard perception tests. It’s also possible to purchase approved footage from the DVSA itself, which has released handy apps for smartphones which allow you to practise on the move at a time convenient for you.
Don’t forget that you’ll also find several mock multiple-choice tests on our website, allowing you to give an all-round solid performance.