The theory test is in 2 parts.  The first part consists of 35 multiple choice questions.  The pass mark is 30.  The questions will cover all areas of driving, from road signs to basic maintenance.   You will need more than the Highway Code to help you pass and there are many materials available from motor and book shops.

After a short break, you will do the hazard perception part of the test.  There are 14 video clips in which there are a total of 15 hazards to identify by clicking the mouse or touching the screen.  The best way of preparing for this is to buy an interactive CD-ROM or DVD which contains practice clips.

The Practical Test

The practical test lasts for about 40 minutes and covers various types of roads and a couple of manoeuvres.  After reading a vehicle number plate, the examiner will ask you 2 questions based on basic car safety and maintenance checks.  During the drive, the examiner will want to see you deal with other road users and situations safely and considerately.  Apart from the person next to you having a pen and piece of paper, think of the test as a normal driving lesson because you won’t need to do anything you won’t already have done many times in your lessons.