If you want to drive a car or ride a motorcycle you’ll need to pass the driving theory test before booking either the car practical driving test or themotorcycle practical test.

You need to have a provisional driving licence to take your driving theory test.

There are 2 parts to the theory test:

• the multiple choice part

• the hazard perception part

Both parts of the test are taken on the same day. You must book your driving theory test in advance. The questions in the multiple-choice part and format of the hazard perception part depend on what kind of vehicle you want to drive.

You need to pass both to pass the theory test.

You can take the shorter ‘abridged’ car theory test if you’ve got the Safe Road User Award.

The theory test pass certificate

You’ll then get a theory test pass certificate. You’ll need the certificate number when you book your practical test.

Preparing for the test

There are official publications and tools to help you prepare for the test, and if you’ve got special needs then there are a number of facilities to help.