Driving Test & Theory Test
The Theory Test:
Learner drivers must pass the driving theory test in the UK in order to obtain a full driving licence. The theory test which was introduced in 1996 takes two forms- one for car drivers and one for motorcyclists. The test lasts 57 minutes and comprises of 50 multiple choice questions ranging in topics such as the Highway Code, driving law and bike and car mechanics. The test is immediately followed by a hazard perception test. Once the two exams have been passed, the learner driver receives a certificate which is used to book the practical driving test. You must pass all three tests in order to receive a full driving licence.
The Driving Test:
The driving test is quite simply an assessment of somebody’s ability to drive a motor vehicle safely and with good, effective observations. To pass the driving test you do not need to be the worlds best driver; the examiner simply wants to see that you can drive safely on your own, be proficient and with good control of the vehicle.
Try to refrain from taking your test to early- Many learner drivers rush into the driving test and as a result fail. If you look at test pass rates for test centres across the UK it is rather low. Learner drivers taking the test before they are ready is the main reason for this. Saying this; thousands of people pass their driving test every week in the UK. Despite what some people believe there are no “quotas”, if you fail your test the driving instructor simply felt that you are not ready to drive alone.
The Highway Code:
The Highway Code is the official road safety manual for the United Kingdom. It contains 278 numbered rules and 7 annexes covering pedestrians, animals, cyclists, motorcyclists and drivers. As well as the rules and annexes, there is information on road signs, road markings and vehicle markings. The annexes contain information on vehicle maintenance, licence requirements, documentation, penalties and vehicle security.
Certain rules in the Highway Code represent various road traffic laws and must be obeyed. Others are not compulsory, but advisable.
Approved Driving Instructors (ADI)
Approved Driving Instructor (or ADI) is a UK term for a trainer of car driving who has been tested and licensed by the Driving Standards Agency. It is a legal requirement that instructors of car driving in the UK must be thus qualified in order to charge for their services.
Free tuition or supervision may however be given by any individual over the age of 21 who has held and continues to hold a full licence in the same class of vehicle as that being used for at least 3 years. The UK has no law requiring the compulsory use of an ADI but research shows that over 95% of prospective drivers use an ADI for at least some of their training.
