Changes to the theory test

The theory test has changed. It is now made up of multiple choice questions which are no longer published in learning materials. The reason for this move is to encourage learners to develop their knowledge and understanding of safe driving theory.

Explaining the changes

Previously, questions asked in the live test were also used, word for word, in the revision papers so candidates were able to learn the answers off by heart. From 23 January 2012 this is no longer the case. The questions in the revision papers will give candidates the best opportunity to learn and the closest experience to taking the real test without using the actual questions.

Format of the Test

No changes are being made to the format of the theory test. It will still be made up of a multiple choice part and a hazard perception part.

The time allowed and the pass marks will stay the same.

Revision Materials

New official driving and riding theory books were published by Driving Standards Agency (DSA) in September 2011 to help candidates prepare for the test and for life on the road.

The new books contain:

new sections of text for motorcyclists, a free e-book for car drivers and full references throughout to help candidates learn and revise
questions and answers for revision, including practice for case studies
the official DSA explanations for every revision question, helping candidates fully understand the answer

New editions of the official software revision materials have been published to help learner drivers fully prepare for their theory test.

The latest official software has more information for learners then ever before, giving them all the information they need for the case study and multiple-choice questions. These key resources also include vast amounts of information to promote safe driving for life, and support for on-road learning.

Candidates can:

study background information on every topic, presented in an easy-to-remember way
customise their practice by topic to see how much they've learnt
sit unlimited mock tests which offer the closest experience to the real test
monitor their progress at each step to find out exactly where they can further improve so they can tailor their revision

This approach to learning will help candidates to gain a better knowledge and understanding of driving theory which will help them respond correctly to the new, reworded live questions used in the actual test.