Learning to Drive in Steps

Before you can start learning to drive, you must apply for a provisional licence.

You can apply for your provisional licence either online or in-person at your local post office.

To apply online for your provisional driving licence go to GOV.UK. Alternatively, you can apply for your provisional licence by completing the D1 application form, available at your local Post Office.

• Turn 17 within 3 months (but you need to wait until your birthday before you can drive on the road)
• Have a valid proof of identity
• Live in the UK
• Give all addresses where you’ve lived over the last three years
• Be able to read a new-style number plate from 20 metres or an old-style number plate form 20.5 metres
• Not be prevented from driving for any reason
• Be able to pay £34 by debit or credit card

The DVLA will try to send you your provisional within 3 weeks of receiving your application although it can take longer if your health or personal details have to be checked.  In the meantime, brush up on your  Highway Code.

Remember – you will need your new licence to arrive prior to driving and will have to give your Instructor a DVSA code which proves your entitlement to drive. For more details click here.

The DVSA theory test consists of two sections: a multiple-choice section and a hazard perception test. You’ll need to be successful in both if you want to pass overall. At Newham School of Motoring we can help you practice in two ways. Firstly, our friendly instructors will help you with your theory training during your lessons and ensure you have the knowledge to pass. 

Also, be sure to get reading ‘The Official DVSA Guide to Driving – The Essential Skills’, which is available in most good bookshops.

How do you book your driving theory test?

It takes about 5 minutes to book a driving theory test online

 Make sure that you’ve got the following information to hand:

• Your provisional driving licence number
• Debit or credit card details to pay for the test
• If you have any special needs, the DVSA can arrange more time for the multiple-choice questions or other reasonable adjustments. You’ll have to mention what your needs are during the driving theory test online booking and you’ll need to give the DVSA proof.

How much does the driving theory test cost?

The UK car and motorcycle tests in the UK costs £23. You’ll also need to own a provisional licence to book the theory test, which costs £34 to apply online. You can also apply by post by filling in a D1 form in your local post office, which will cost £43.

Where can you take your driving theory test?

There are driving theory test centres all across the UK. Find your nearest test centre here.

Preparation is everything. The earlier you start preparing for your test, the better. However, an important part of getting ready for a driving theory test actually happens on the day of your test as well:

• Make sure you bring your provisional photocard driving licence
• Don’t worry about bringing a pen as your test will be completed on a computer

If you can’t present your provisional licence at the test centre, you won’t be allowed to sit the test and you’ll lose your fee!

What’s the pass mark for the theory test?

The theory test consists of 50 questions in total, for which you’ll have 57 minutes. You’ll need to answer at least 43 out of 50 multiple choice questions correctly to pass.

Before beginning the test, you can get comfortable by completing a 15 minute practice session.

What’s the pass mark for the hazard perception test?

After the theory section, you’ll complete the hazard perception test using the mouse of a computer. You’ll be required to identify hazards as they appear on the screen, and click the mouse. There are 15 hazards in total and you can score five points for each if you click the mouse as soon as the hazard starts to develop. You’ve got to score at least 44 out of 75 points to pass the hazard perception part of the test.

If you fail one part of the test, then unfortunately you’ll have to retake both parts. You’ll also need to wait 3 working days before you can take another test.

How long do you have to pass your driving test after completing your theory test?

Your driving theory test certificate will be valid for 2 years from the date you passed. If you don’t pass your practical driving test within this time frame then you’ll need to resit the test.

If you’re sitting your theory test soon, then we wish you the best of luck!

It's sometimes Quality over Quantity meaning a reliable curriculum must be set for Learners aiding them in their best understanding ensuring they have the confidence to carry out manoeuvres and or drive independently with confidence. Here at Newham School of Motoring we can guarantee you that. Your Comfortability is important to us and Lessons will be built around your ease.