what you need to know about the hazard of your theory test

Experts from driving schools in Croydon all agree that the ability to identify hazards on the road is one of the most important aspects of driving. A safe driver is a competent driver, and to ensure that all drivers understand how to look for potential or emerging hazards, the DVSA devised the Driving Theory Test. All learner drivers must complete this (with a pass mark of at least 44 out of 75).

Although the theory test can seem daunting, in actual fact it’s largely comprised of common sense hazard perception questions. Most learner drivers are likely to pick up most of the knowledge required to reach the pass mark by simply paying attention during driving lessons in Croydon, and a competent instructor should be able to identify examples of potential hazards during a standard lesson.

What to Expect in Your Driving Theory Test

The test is split into two distinct parts: the first consists of multiple choice questions, and the second consists of a hazard perception test.

During the multiple-choice section, you will be expected to demonstrate your knowledge of the highway code, with questions pertaining to speed limits, road signs, markings and more.

When you get to the hazard perception part of the test you’ll be shown 14 video clips from a first-person perspective whereby you’ll be expected to identify numerous different types of hazard. These can encompass a number of scenarios, such as:

• A parent with a pram attempting to cross the road, in between parked cars
• Approaching a T-junction where vehicles on either side could potentially pull out
• Approaching water or other potentially hazardous materials on the road
• Poor road or visibility conditions

The objective here is quite simple: click the mouse as soon as you see any of these potential hazards on the screen. There is a maximum of five points to be gained for identifying each developing hazard. You won’t lose points for getting a question wrong, but continuously clicking will result in scoring nothing.

How Your Driving Instructor Can Help

A good instructor should be able to have a dialogue with you during your driving lesson, whereby they allow you to identify hazards you notice (like whether you’re too close to the car in front of you) and explain any hazards that you may have missed. This way, you will be completely prepared when sitting the test. For expert help with your theory test, contact us at Apex Driving School today.