The Driving Test
The Theory Test
The first part of the Theory Test consists of 50 multiple choice questions which must be completed within 57 minutes. A question and several answer options will appear onscreen and you have to select the correct answer to the question by touching the screen. Some questions may require more than one answer.
Some questions will be given as a case study. The case study will show a scenario that five questions will be based on. The subject of the scenario focuses on real life examples and experiences that drivers could come across when driving.
The pass mark is 43 correct answers out of 50.
After the multiple choice part you can choose to have a break of up to three minutes before the hazard perception part starts. The Hazard Perception test consists of a series of video clips of typical road scenes. You must click the computer mouse as soon as a hazard appears. Marks are scored by correctly identifying hazards as early as possible. The pass mark for this part is 44 out of a possible 75.
Both parts of the Theory Test must be passed at the same sitting. The test is marked by the computer and the result is given to the candidate within a few minutes of completion.
Official DSA car theory test - Are you ready?
Booking your Theory Test
Telephone bookings can be made directly to the Driving Standards Agency on 0870 0101 372 or book your driving and theory test online.
The theory test centre in the Alertdrive area is:
Birkenhead Theory Test Centre
2 Europa Boulevard (2nd flr)
Conway Park
Birkenhead
Cheshire
CH41 4PE
The Practical Driving Test
After reading a number plate to check your eyesight is OK the examiner will ask you two Show Me Tell Me questions.
The main part of the driving test will then begin. This will last about 40 minutes. It’s not enough just to drive the car. You must demonstrate that you are in control of the car and that you are aware of other road users, the rules of the road and can perform manoeuvres under control. You will be marked as you go around on things such as observations, use of mirrors, obeying road signs, interacting with other road users, etc.
You will be asked to do 2 out of 4 possible reversing manoeuvres (turning in the road, reversing around a corner, reverse parking and bay park). You might be also be asked to perform an emergency stop.
At the end of the test the examiner will tell you whether you have passed or failed. In either case they will make sure to explain to you what you have done right and wrong throughout the test and it is important to pay attention to this. Your driving instructor may come to the car and listen to what they have to say.
In order to pass, you must not make any serious or dangerous faults, although you are allowed to have up to 15 minor mistakes. Don’t worry! It is not that difficult, and examiners are very friendly. They know what it is like having to drive under pressure, and they really are on your side.
Official DSA car practical test BEFORE 4 October 2010
Official DSA car practical test FROM 4 October 2010
Independent driving: change to the practical test
From 4 October 2010 your practical driving test will include a section of 'independent driving'. This will replace one of the compulsory manoeuvres.
During your test you'll have to drive by either following a series of directions, following traffic signs, or a combination of both, for about ten minutes.
To help you understand where you're going, the examiner may show you a diagram.
It doesn't matter if you don't remember every direction, or if you go the wrong way - that can happen to the most experienced drivers.
Independent driving is not a test of your orientation and navigation skills. Driving independently means making your own decisions - this includes deciding when it's safe and appropriate to ask for confirmation about where you're going.
Independent driving in the driving test. What is it?
Booking your Practical Test
Telephone bookings can be made directly to the Driving Standards Agency on 0870 0101 372 or book your driving and theory test online.
At Alertdrive we use practical test centres at Wallasey and Upton. You can choose which centre you wish to be tested at.
Follow these links for Appointment Availability and Pass Rates …
Wallasey Test Centre and Upton Test Centre
If you would like to book a driving lesson, or have any questions please contact us.
