Taxi driver theory test
Anyone applying to become a taxi driver must pass a two-part theory test before they can apply for the practical test.
What happens during the test
There are two parts to the taxi driver theory test:
- multiple choice questions
- hazard perception video clips
Multiple choice questions
The multiple choice questions will test your knowledge of road safety and operating as a taxi driver and are based on the following broad topic areas:
- road procedures and responsibilities, eco-safe driving and the environment
- traffic signs and signals, vulnerable road users, mechanical knowledge
- health and safety, legal responsibilities, safe loading of the vehicle
- customer care, carriage of vulnerable passengers, passenger safety and comfort
The pass mark for the multiple choice questions is 80 out of 100. However, you must also show that you have a broad knowledge in all topic areas by achieving a score of at least 18 in each of the four topic areas listed above.
To support you in preparation for the multiple choice part of the theory test a taxi driver theory test revision aid with key learning points is available at:
You should also refer to the following link:
The hazard perception test
This will test your ability to:
- scan the road
- recognise from the clues that a potentially dangerous situation might arise
- adopt a driving plan to reduce the risk
During the test you will be shown 14 video clips which feature every day road scenes. In each clip there will be at least one developing hazard, but one of the clips will feature two developing hazards.
To achieve a high score you will need to respond to the developing hazard during the early stages. The maximum you can score on each hazard is five.
Drivers need to recognise available clues and perceive danger no matter what vehicle they use. For this reason, the same version of the hazard perception test is used for all categories of test.
The pass mark for the hazard perception test is 50 or more out of a possible 75.
Find out more about hazard perception on the preparing for the theory test page.
A taxi driver licence will only be issued once all requirements have been met. Where a licence is not issued, a refund will not be available for any taxi driver theory and taxi driver practical tests that have been conducted.
Practice tests
You can practice the taxi theory test online free of charge. The link below will take you to the practice test:
The Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) provides two free online tests for the car theory test. These will also help you prepare for your taxi driver theory test. The links below take you to the practice screens.