Learner Drivers UK - Theory and Practical Tests

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THEORY & PRACTICAL TESTS > The hazard perception element


The hazard perception test was incorporated into the driving theory examination in November 2002. The hazard perception test now forms part of the screen based theory test and is taken immediately after, and in the same session as, the multiple choice test described in the previous section.
This section provides details of the hazard perception element of the theory test ....

What is hazard perception?

Hazard Perception is the driving ability and skill to detect situations as early as possible and take appropriate avoiding action if necessary, e.g. changing speed or direction. This involves techniques such as ...

	Constantly scanning the whole area around you
	Selecting a safe distance between yourself and other vehicles
	Using an appropriate speed for your current situation
	Planning well ahead
	Anticipating developing situations

Why hazard perception is important

Every year over 3,500 people are killed on our roads. Young drivers make up only a small percentage of the driving population but are involved in up to one in seven accidents causing injury. The government believes that introducing the Hazard Perception test could dramatically reduce these figures.

A more experienced driver is much more likely to anticipate hazards than a newly qualified one, in fact it often takes up to two seconds longer for a new driver to recognise a hazardous situation. Currently, many driving test candidates demonstate poor scanning and anticipation skills, which are vitally important requirements for safe driving.

Introducing a test which monitors these specific areas more closely should ensure that driver training is even more effective in producing safe drivers.

How the test will be taken

The hazard perception element forms part of the screen based theory test and takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. Failure to pass either the multiple-choice section or the hazard perception test will result in failure of the whole test.
It is hoped that by taking the hazard perception element at the same time as the multiple choice element, candidates will be able to relate the skills they develop whilst preparing for the test to the practical experience gained during their driving lessons and practice.

How the test will work

At the beginning of the hazard perception part of the test candidates are shown a brief instruction video. The video shows how the hazard perception test works. There is an option to watch the video twice if needed. Headphones are worn for the instruction video but can be removed for the actual test as there is no sound on the video clips.

In the test itself, candidates are shown a number of 1 minute video clips filmed from a car. Each clip contains one or more developing hazards. Each candidate is tested on 14 film clips chosen at random from a series of two hundred.

Candidates are asked to indicate (by clicking the mouse) as soon as they see a hazard developing which may need the driver to take appropriate action e.g. changing speed or changing direction.
Candidates are marked on their responses -
the sooner a response is made, the higher the score.

The only hazards candidates will be scored on are the developing ones. Candidates will not lose points for responding to other hazards.

Training available

Driving instructors are able to teach their pupils all of the skills and techniques required to pass the hazard perception test. They may also have various training aids which pupils may use or borrow. Talk to your driving instructor about the options available before taking the test.

When will I get the results?

You will be given your results to the hazard perception test and the multiple choice test before you leave the test centre. REMEMBER - You need to have passed BOTH TESTS on the same day to receive your theory pass certificate.
Your results will include feedback about any topic areas in which you answered questions and hazards incorrectly.

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