More than half fail their UK driving theory test - see if you can pass
We've made a mini version of the UK theory test for you to try at home
Learner drivers in the UK have to revise and prepare for this important test
(Image: sturti via Getty Images)
Even experienced drivers might have forgotten some of the essential knowledge every motorist should know. Over time, you develop a general understanding of how the roads operate and what keeps everyone safe.
However, at some point, most people with a driving licence would have had to take a pre-test before showing their skills behind the wheel. The first official UK Driving Theory Test was launched in July 1997 and has been a compulsory step for those wanting to get their full licence in the UK.
A full driving theory test consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, followed by the hazard perception assessment. To pass, candidates must correctly answer at least 43 questions within the 57-minute time limit.
Questions typically concentrate on aspects of driving, such as road signs, the Highway Code, certain safety practices, and driving scenarios. Car drivers also need to understand how to safely interact with pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists sharing the road.
It was recently revealed that all drivers will soon need to learn how to operate a crucial piece of equipment to pass as well. The Government announced that from autumn 2025, theory tests will include enhanced first aid questions - including CPR and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
Millions take the theory test each year in the UK, but less than half manage to pass
(Image: mrdoomits via Getty Images)
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The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is the governmental organisation responsible for overseeing the theory test. Approximately 2.4 million theory exams are carried out each year, with a success rate of 45.7% recorded between July and September 2024, as reported by GOV.UK.
There is no limit on how many times people may sit the UK driving theory exam. If slots are immediately available, people must allow a minimum of three working days between re-attempts.
Each test will cost a £23 fee. Candidates can prepare for the theory examination through textbooks and digital platforms, practising both the multiple-choice and hazard perception components.
People in the UK need to pass the theory test before taking the practical driving exam
(Image: monkeybusinessimages via Getty Images)
We have put together a short test below to see if you would succeed in a theory test taken today. To simplify our version, we have reduced the question count by more than half and eliminated the ticking timer - no pressure.
Our quiz has just 20 questions, so to achieve a similar pass rate to the actual exam, you will need 17 correct answers. Every question we have included comes from an official DVSA practice examination for car drivers.
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The online platform confirms that these practice questions are "not used in the real test, but they're based on the same topics as the test". Best of luck! Let us know how you get on in the comments.
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