Driving Tests, Theory and Practical, Kingsleys School of Motoring, Devon, UK

Hazard Perception Test …

What is it?

Hazard perception is your ability to identify any situation, as soon as possible, that requires you to take appropriate action, i.e. slowing down or changing direction.

How does it work? - You will be shown a number of moving video clips, which are actually filmed from a moving car in real situations. You will be asked to respond as soon as you see a potential/developing hazard. The sooner you see the hazard the higher your score; it is as simple as that.

The Theory …

The theory test is a way of showing your understanding of the Highway Code and other driving related matters.

DON'T BE AFRAID OF IT.

As you know you have to take the theory/hazard test before you can take your practical test (this does not stop you driving).

What is the theory? - The theory test is a way of showing that you have an understanding of the theory side of driving and are capable of understanding road markings and road signs, and understanding the needs and difficulties of other road uses including pedestrians. You also need to have a basic knowledge of vehicle maintenance, safety, security, first aid, and the very basics of road traffic and vehicle related law.

How does it work? - All theory tests are now computerized. Don't worry if you don't know your icon from your mouse (!), it can be touch-screen, if necessary.

You are given 35 questions, each question has a multiple-choice answer, and you have to score a minimum of 30 in order to pass the test. Your results are given to you approximately 10 minutes after you finish.

What should I read? - Firstly, you must have an up-to-date copy of the Highway Code and a good theory test book, preferably one recommended by the D.S.A as they set the tests. (Prices for these books start at approximately Ł5.00). Once you have started reading, your Kingsley's Instructor will then test you as you continue your driving lessons.

What should I take?

A provisional driving licence and photo for proof of identity.
If you have the new photocard licence you will need to take both parts, the photocard and the counterpart (the paper bit!). If you have the old paper style licence, then you will have to take a passport or student card or something with your photo on.

The Theory Test is taken at the same time as the Hazard Perception Test and you have to pass both sections.

Take a DSA official online mock Theory Test Questions cover a variety of topics relating to road safety. As in the real test, these tests use a mix of 35 questions drawn from all sections of the question bank to test your knowledge.	TEST 1
	TEST 2

The Practical …

The practical driving test is quite simply your chance to prove that you can drive a car.

Don't be afraid of the test. Do not be afraid of the Examiner.

Nerves play a big part when it comes to the test and that is understandable. However, do not let it be your downfall. The test is a test of your competence and, yes, the Examiner knows you are nervous - that is why they allow for minor mistakes. They are not looking for a perfect driver - what they are looking for is a safe competent drive.

How long is the test? - The test is approximately 40-45 mins long and will include 2 manoeuvres and possibly the emergency stop.

What will I have to do? - You should drive the way you do when you are on your own; that is what the Examiner is looking for. He will take you through different traffic situations: town, country, dual carriageway, housing estates and, at some stage, ask you to complete 2 of the manoeuvers; i.e. reverse park, or turn in the road (three point turn).

You will be doing what you have been taught and what you have learnt. With Kingsley's, you would not be taking your test if you were not or did not feel ready.

Remember, at Kingsley's you will have done plenty of mock tests to make sure you're 100% ready.

FAQ - (Frequently Asked Questions)

Do more people fail at the end of the week than at the beginning? - No. Contrary to popular belief, there is no quota. Each person is tested on their own ability to drive, not on how many people have already passed that week.

Do Examiners talk to you? - Examiners are very experienced in their job, they will decide whether they can chat to you depending on your level of nervousness. They will always do their best to make you relax, if this means chatting during the test then, yes, they will chat - but keep your eyes on the road and remember what you are doing.

Will the Examiner ask questions at the end of the test? - No! He will have seen your understanding of the theory during the test. This is a practical test of your driving ability. He may ask questions relating to your driving during the test. However, this will not have any influence on the result.

Can I ask a question for advice during the practical test? - Not really no. This is a test of your ability to drive and show that, if given a full licence, you could make safe sensible decisions on your own.

If you are not sure of something, though, like directions, or misheard what was said, then don't be afraid to ask again: this is perfectly acceptable.

Test Fees

Hazard Perception

This test is incorporated with the theory test.

Theory Test (car)

The current cost of a theory test is Ł21.50

Practical Test (car)

The current cost of this test is Ł48.50 for a weekday.
Ł58.00 for an evening or Saturday (not all centres offer evening or weekends).

Extended Test following Disqualifications (car)

The current cost of this test is Ł97.00 for a weekday
Ł116.00 for an evening or Saturday, (not all centres offer evening or weekends).

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE PRACTICAL TEST

Pass Plus

After you have passed your test you can take Pass Plus, a short course which was launched by the D.S.A. to help accelerate your experience, and which can give you large reductions on your car insurance. There is no test at the end of the course, but you will have to complete the syllabus to a satisfactory level.

The syllabus covers:

Town driving
All weather driving
Out of town driving and rural road
Night driving
Dual carriageway driving
Motorway driving.

After the syllabus you will be eligible for a Certificate. BUT, you have to take Pass Plus within one year of passing your practical driving test.

For any other information you can contact Pass Plus directly on 0115 901 2633 or visit www.passplus.org.uk

Advanced Motoring

The Advanced Driving Test is an opportunity for experienced drivers to show to other drivers that they have been tested by an Institute of Advanced Motorists Examiner (I.A.M.) and have proved to be capable of driving a car safely to a very high standard.

The number of hours required to prepare for the test will depend on your level of experience. However, it is not unknown for a relatively new driver with little or no experience to take the I.A.M. test, so don't think you're too young to be an Advanced Motorist.

To visit the IAM website click here

CALL EMMA or JULIE on 01626 335755

*The DVLA website is www.open.gov.uk/dvla/welcome.htm

Taking the test (The scary bit .....)

Home Our Personality Meet the Team The Tests The Cars Contact Us Instructor Training Gallery	Ok, just what CAN you expect ?	Taking your tests (either one) can be a daunting experience. We at Kingsleys are here to help keep your cool. We'll make sure that you are ready for all the tests and guide you every step of the way...
	For more information on the tests or anything else on this page: CALL EMMA or Julie on 01626 335755