The hazard perception test: how it works and how to practise

The hazard perception test: how it works – Tutwoo study guide

Hazard perception is the second part of the car theory test. You watch everyday road scenes and click when you see a hazard developing. You need 44 out of 75 to pass, and you must pass it at the same test as the multiple-choice questions.

How it works

  • You watch 14 video clips of everyday road scenes.
  • Every clip has at least one developing hazard, and one clip has two.
  • You can score up to 5 points for each developing hazard. The sooner you click once it starts to develop, the higher your score.
  • You get one attempt at each clip, and you can’t go back and change your responses.
  • Before the test starts, you’re shown a short video explaining how it works.

What counts as a developing hazard

A developing hazard is something that would make you take action, such as slowing down or changing direction. A car parked at the side of the road isn’t one. That same car pulling out in front of you is.

Think of it like real driving: you’re looking for the moment a situation starts to need a response from you.

Don’t click too much

If you click continuously or in a pattern, you won’t score anything for that clip. Click when you see a hazard starting to develop, and don’t click non-stop.

How to practise

  1. Watch the whole scene. Look far ahead, not just at the car in front. Check side roads, pavements, parked cars and mirrors in the scene.
  2. Spot the clues early. A ball rolling into the road, a pedestrian near a crossing, brake lights ahead, a cyclist glancing over their shoulder: these often come just before a hazard develops.
  3. Practise with video clips. The official DVSA hazard perception guide and app are listed on GOV.UK.
  4. Review your timing. After a practice clip, check whether you clicked too early, too late or at the right moment.
  5. Practise on real roads. When you’re out with your instructor or supervising driver, say out loud the hazards you can see developing.

Practise with Tutwoo

Tutwoo’s driving theory courses explain hazard awareness topic by topic, and your AI tutor can talk you through why something is a hazard. The first lesson of every course is free.

Start a free lesson

Sources

Tutwoo is independent and not affiliated with DVSA. Test details from GOV.UK, checked 31 October 2026.

© 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.