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Your Questions about Driving Lessons in Bournemouth Answered.

Please click a link below to take you to questions and answers in the subject most enquired upon by people undertaking, or about to undertake a driving course. If your question remains unanswered please do not hesitate to e-mail us with your query.

Theory and Hazard Perception Test
Special Needs
Booking and Taking a Test
Study Information
The Driving Test

The Theory and Hazard Perception Tests

What happens when I take the theory test?

The first part of the Theory Test is sat in individual booths using a touch screen computer. Questions appear one at a time on a screen and candidates choose their answers by touching the screen.
The theory test now has a hazard perception test. The hazard perception test consists of 14 video clips, which feature real road scenes and developing hazards. The test has a maximum of 15 scoreable hazards and each clip has at least one scoreable hazard. The Candidate clicks a mouse button to identify a hazard that's developing.

How is the theory test formatted?

It is made up of two parts. The first part is multiple choice. You will choose answers to questions by touching the screen. Candidates are allowed 15 minutes to practice before the actual test commences.
The second part of the test is the hazard perception. This consists of 14 video clips, which feature hazards of various types, ie vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and the like. There are 15 scoreable hazards in the hazard test Thirteen out of the fourteen video clips will have just one scoreable hazard and one clip will have two scoreable hazards.
The earlier a developing hazard is responded to the higher the candidates score.
Candidates will view a short video showing how the hazard perception test works prior to the start of the actual test.

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How are the theory questions answered?

Only one question is shown at a time on the screen. The candidate touches a button on the screen to choose the answer. The choice selection buttons will be located below the position of the question and the possible answers.

Can I change an answer I have given?

Yes. Just select a different answer option button on the screen.

Can I return to a question I was unsure about?

Yes. Candidates can mark questions to help identify it should they wish to go back. Also, If any questions aren't fully answered the computer will prompt the candidate to complete the question.

How do I select and identify the hazards in the hazard perception test?

Candidates click the computer mouse as soon as a hazard has been identified. The sooner the respond, the higher the score.

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Can I change my answers in the hazard test?

In short....No.

How long do I wait to get the results?

Candidates will receive all test results within 30 minutes of completing the test.

Is there any feedback regarding incorrect answers?

Yes. Feedback is given for both the multiple choice and hazard perception parts of the test.

Do I need any computer skills?

Not at all. The computer system has been specially designed for ease of use.

How long is the theory test?

For the multiple-choice part of the test you have 40 minutes to answer a total of 35 questions . If a candidate has any special needs he/she can request more time when the test is booked (up to 80 minutes).
The hazard perception element of the test lasts for about 15 minutes.

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How many questions are there?
There are 50 questions in the multiple-choice test and 14 clips (15 scoreable hazards) in the hazard perception test.

What is the pass mark for the theory test?
You have to answer 43 questions correctly out of 50 to pass the multiple-choice test.
To pass the hazard perception test, candidates must score at least 44 out of 75.
Both parts must be passed to pass the theory test as a whole.

What happens if I only pass one part of the test?
If you fail either the multiple-choice part or the hazard perception part, you will fail the whole test. Both parts will have to be taken again.

How long is the theory pass certificate valid for?
The Theory Test Pass certificate is valid for two years. In the event the practical test is not passed when the certificate expires, the theory test will need to be retaken.

Does everyone have to take the theory test?
People learning to drive or ride will have to take a theory test for the category of vehicle they intend to be practically tested on. However, if upgrading within the same category, or if you hold a full motorcycle licence issued before 1 February 2001 you are exempt from the car (B) theory test.Also, if you passed a theory, and a practical moped test, you won't have to take the theory test again prior to upgrading your licence to a motorcycle licence.

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I have a foreign driving licence. Am I required to take the British theory and practical tests?
If you have a full foreign driving licence valid outside the EEC, you may be able to exchange it for the equivalent Brirish licence. Information can be found in a booklet (the D100) obtainable from most post offices, or from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (Tel: 0870 240 0009) where information can be obtained regarding whether you can exchange your driving licence.

Can I take the practical test first?
No. Candidates must take and pass the theory test before booking the practical test

Special Needs

What other languages can I take the test in?
Both the multiple choice and hazard perception part of the test can be taken in one of 20 languages. These languages are: Welsh, Albanian, Arabic, Bengali, Cantonese, Dari, Farsi, Gujerati, Hindi, Kashmiri, Kurdish, Mirpuri, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Pushto, Spanish, Tamil, Turkish and Urdu.

Can I bring a translator with me?
Yes. If the language you require is not catered for, a DSA approved translator may assist you. You must arrange and be responsible for paying the translator yourself. These arrangements must be made when booking a test. Visit the Driving Standards Agency web site for information on which testing centres take part.

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How can candidates with special needs undertake the theory test?
Candidates requiring a language other than English can listen, in their chosen language, to the multiple choice questions and the perception test tutorial though a headset. Deaf candidates will be able to watch the test being signed in British Sign Language.

I am dyslexic. Can I use the system?
Dyslexic candidates can listen to the multiple choice questions read in English through a headset. Candidates with dyslexia can also apply for 40 minutes extra time.

Booking a Test
How do I apply for a theory or practical test?
You can book the test online or you can also ring DSA's national booking number on 0870 010 1372. Application forms are also accepted by post and payable by cheque or postal order.Send forms to:

DSA
PO Box 148
Salford
M5 3SY

The DSA accept these credit / debit cards: Visa, Mastercard, Switch, Delta, Solo and Electron.

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Where can I get a test application form from?
Application forms can be obtained from any theory and practical test centre, from an Approved Driving Instructor or by contacting the DSA's national number 0870 010 1372.

Where should I send an application form?
Application forms for the theory test should be sent to the address shown on the form

DSA
PO Box 148
Salford
M5 3SY

How much does the theory test cost?
At present the cost of the theory test is £31.00 and the ordinary practical test is £62.00 on a week day and £75.00 at weekends.

How can I pay for the test?
For all types of bookings you can pay by credit or debit card, or by cheque or postal order for postal applications. Visa, Mastercard, Switch, Delta, Solo and Electron cards are all accepted by the DSA


Study Information
What study materials are available for the theory test?
Candidates should use these publications:

A longer list of material is available available on The DSA Publications web page. Also
The data bank of questions / video clips for the theory and hazard perception test are found on CD ROM which is obtainable at any good bookshop. Alernatively you can view and Order Online at Amazon online bookstore. The CD-ROM is also available from the DSA by mail order telephone 0870 241 4523.

Where can I get more information?
General Information is available by phoning the DSA's national number of 0870 010 1372 .
If you would like more information about the new theory test you may phone the DSA Information Service on 0115 901 2500 or e-mail: theory.test@dsa.gsi.gov.uk

The Driving Test

What is the procedure once I arrive at the test centre?
Upon arrival the candidate will waite for the examiner. The examiner will call the candidates name, check the candidates licence and ask for the candidates signature to declare the vehicle used for test is insured.Once outside the candidate will be asked to complete an eye sight test by reading a number plate at a distance of 67 feet. At the car the examiner will ask the candidate a couple of questions related to general car maintenance (this may require opening the bonnet) after which you will get in the car ready for the driving part. The examiner will give his/her instructions clearly and in good time during the test.

Are the rumours about quotas true?
The Driving Standards Agency do not have a quota for test passes or fails. If you have reached the required standard you will pass your test.

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Can anyone sit in with me on a test?
An instructor or a friend may accompany a candidate on test provided they do not interfere during the test. An interpreter may come with you as long as they are not under 16 years of age. Driving instructors must not be used as an interpreter.

Can I use an automatic car for the test?
Yes. However, upon passing the test, you will only be licenced to drive an automatic car. A full automatic licence will act as a provisional licence should you then with to pursue a full manual licence.

What is the examiners expectations of a candidates driving?
Your examiner will want you to drive safely and competently in various road and traffic conditions. You will be given directions clearly and in good time. You will also be asked to carry out two out of three of the required reversing exercises.

How long does the driving test take?
About 40 minutes.
Note: The extended test now lasts for approximately 70 minutes.

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Well Done! Jenny just passed 1st Time.