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If you're worried about your Theory Test, just remember the anticipation is always far worse than the event itself. To calm your fears, we've answered the most frequently asked questions:
Q: Can I take the Theory Test before I have my provisional licence?
A: No. You can apply for your provisional licence from up to two months before your 17th birthday, and applications can be found at the post office.
Q: How do I book an appointment to take the test?
A: You can apply on form TT26 which is available from Theory Test centres, driving test centres, some driving instructors and through the national test booking line on 0870 010 1372.
Q: How do I cancel my appointment?
A: If you wish to cancel your appointment, you must give at least three working days' notice, or your fee will not be refunded. To cancel, call 0870 01 01 372.
Q: I have trouble reading. What should I do?
A: The Theory Test is now done on a computer where all you have to do is press the correct answer. If you have trouble reading, there are aural versions of the test where extra time is given. Ask about this when you apply to take the test.
Q: English is not my first language. Is this test available in other languages?
A: Yes, it's available in Albanian, Arabic, Bengali, Cantonese, Farsi, Gujerati, Hindi, Kurdish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Spanish, Tamil, Turkish, Urdu, and Welsh.
Q: I am deaf. Can I still take the test?
A: Yes. A video of the test in British Sign Language is available on the computer screen.
Q: Can I take the Practical Test before the Theory Test?
A: No, because you must pass the Theory Test before you can take the Practical Test.
Q: Will Theory questions be asked on the Practical Test?
A: No.
Q: How much does it cost to take the Theory Test?
A: The Theory Test fee is £15.50, no matter how many times you take the test and regardless of day and time.
Q: Where can I take the test?
A: There are over 158 test centres nationwide. Ask your driving instructor or call the information line on 0870 0101 372.
Q: What day and time can I take the test?
A: Most test centres are open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and from 6pm to 9pm. Some are open on Saturdays too.
Q: Do I need to bring anything to the test?
A: You must present your provisional driving licence upon arrival. It's also recommended that you take a work or school ID card which has your picture on it.
Q: Is the test written or on a computer screen?
A:On January 4, 2000, all Theory Tests switched to a computer screen format. To select answers, you simply touch the screen. There is a 15 minute practise session first and staff will be available to help you if you have trouble with the system.
One question will appear on the screen at a time, and you can move backwards and forwards through the test to change answers or re-read questions.
Q: What is the format of the questions?
A: There are 35 multiple choice questions based on the Highway Code, and you have 40 minutes to answer them all. Most questions require one answer to be selected from four possible answers, although there may be up to six possible answers listed.
The selected answer is indicated by touching the appropriate box on the screen.
Q: Why has the pass mark been increased?
A: The pass mark used to be 26 out of 35, but that was considered too easy. The pass mark is now 30 out of 35.
Q: How do I know how long I've got left to complete the test?
A: There is a clock in the right hand corner of the computer screen that flashes when you have five minutes remaining.
Q: Do I take the test with others?
A: Yes, there may be up to 30 other candidates in the room with you. To prevent cheating, each computer may ask different questions.
Q: Can I still take the test if I'm late?
A: No, because this would be distracting to the other candidates. You must be there on time. If you're late, your test fee cannot be refunded.
Q: Can I get my results straight after taking the test?
A: Yes, you no longer have to pay extra for a same day result service. You will receive the results before you leave the test centre.
Where to next in learning to drive
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