The car theory test has two parts, and you need to pass both in the same test. This plan breaks your revision into steps so you know what to do each week, and when you’re ready to book.
What’s in the test
- Multiple-choice questions: 50 questions in 57 minutes. You need 43 out of 50 to pass.
- Hazard perception: a set of video clips where you click when you spot a developing hazard. You need 44 out of 75 to pass.
If you fail either part, you have to take the whole test again, and you must wait at least 3 working days. When you pass, your pass certificate lasts 2 years, so you need to pass your practical driving test within that time.
To book, you need a provisional driving licence. The test costs £23, and you book it on GOV.UK. On the day, take your photocard driving licence (or a paper licence plus a valid passport): if you forget it, your test will be cancelled and you won’t get your money back.
Step 1: Get the right books
The multiple-choice questions are based on three official books: The Highway Code, Know your traffic signs and Driving – the essential skills. Start with The Highway Code, which is free to read online.
Step 2: Learn one topic at a time
Don’t try to read everything at once. Pick one topic a session, such as road signs, stopping distances or motorway rules, and learn it properly before moving on. Short, regular sessions work better than long, occasional ones.
Step 3: Test yourself as you go
After each topic, answer practice questions on it. When you get one wrong, go back to the book and find out why. Understanding the reason matters more than remembering the answer. GOV.UK also has a free practice theory test that covers the same topics as the real one.
Step 4: Practise hazard perception separately
Hazard perception is a different skill from the questions, so give it its own practice time. Our hazard perception guide explains how the scoring works.
Step 5: Take full timed mock tests
When you’ve covered every topic, take full mock tests: 50 questions in 57 minutes. They show you which topics still need work and help you get used to the time limit.
Step 6: Book when you’re consistently ready
Book your test when you’re passing mock tests comfortably and regularly, not just once. Leave yourself time to keep practising before the date.
Practise with Tutwoo
Tutwoo’s driving theory courses cover the topics one at a time, with original practice questions in the same format as the real test and timed mock tests. The first lesson of every course is free.
Sources
- GOV.UK theory test
- Pass mark and result
- Multiple-choice questions
- Hazard perception test
- Revision and practice
- What to take
Tutwoo is independent and not affiliated with DVSA. Test details from GOV.UK, checked 31 October 2026. Always check GOV.UK before you book.
© 2026 Tutwoo UK Limited. This guide was created in-house by Tutwoo and is our original work. It is for your own learning only: please do not copy, share, record or resell it.