Car theory test: how many questions, and what is the pass mark?
Updated •4 min read
The UK car theory test has 50 multiple-choice questions, and you need 43 of them right to pass that part. You also have to pass a separate hazard perception part, where the pass mark is 44 out of 75. You must pass both parts to pass the theory test.
What is in the test
The theory test is booked and taken as a single test, in two parts (gov.uk: theory test):
- Multiple-choice questions. 50 questions in 57 minutes.
- Hazard perception. 14 video clips, each with at least one developing hazard to spot.
You sit the multiple-choice part first. You can take a break of up to 3 minutes before the hazard perception part starts (gov.uk: multiple-choice questions).
The multiple-choice part
You have 57 minutes to answer 50 questions, and you do not have to use all of it. During the test you can flag questions to come back to later, and you can go back to any question to review and change your answer (gov.uk: multiple-choice questions).
The pass mark is 43 out of 50. Put another way, you can get 7 questions wrong and still pass this part.
The hazard perception part
You watch 14 video clips. Each clip contains at least one developing hazard, and one clip has two. You can score up to 5 points for each developing hazard, which is how the part adds up to 75 points (gov.uk: hazard perception test).
The pass mark is 44 out of 75. Our hazard perception guide explains how the scoring works and how to prepare.
Pass marks at a glance
| Part | Format | Pass mark |
|---|---|---|
| Multiple choice | 50 questions, 57 minutes | 43 out of 50 |
| Hazard perception | 14 clips, up to 5 points per hazard | 44 out of 75 |
Source: gov.uk: pass mark and result.
Do you need to pass both parts?
Yes. You must pass both parts to pass the test. If you pass one and fail the other, you still have to book and sit the whole test again, and you must wait at least 3 working days before retaking it. You get your result at the test centre after the test, and if you fail, a letter shows which sections you scored too low on.
How long does a pass last?
Your pass certificate number lasts for 2 years. You must pass your driving test within that time, or you will need to take the theory test again.
How to prepare
The multiple-choice questions come from the theory test question bank and test your knowledge of the Highway Code, road signs and safe driving. A sensible plan is to find out where you are weak first, then spend your time there:
- Take the free diagnostic to see which topics you already know.
- Practise on a practice test until the 43 out of 50 mark feels comfortable, not borderline.
- Read the Highway Code rules behind any question you miss.
theorytest.ai is independent and is not affiliated with the DVSA. The official figures above come from gov.uk, so check there before you book in case they change.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are in the car theory test?
There are 50 multiple-choice questions, which you have 57 minutes to answer. There is also a hazard perception part with 14 video clips.
What is the pass mark for the car theory test?
The pass mark is 43 out of 50 for the multiple-choice part and 44 out of 75 for the hazard perception part. You must pass both.
What happens if I pass only one part?
You still have to retake the whole test. You must wait at least 3 working days before you can sit it again.
How long is a theory test pass valid?
Your pass certificate number lasts for 2 years. You must pass your driving test within that time.