Contents
Below are the current pass marks for the hazard perception test across different UK driving licence categories:
| Licence Category | Hazard Perception Pass Mark | Total Points Available |
|---|---|---|
| Car (Learner) | 44 | 75 |
| Motorcycle (Learner) | 44 | 75 |
| Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) | 57 | 75 |
| LGV (Lorry Driver CPC) | 67 | 100 |
| PCV (Bus Driver CPC) | 67 | 100 |
To pass the theory test, you must meet the pass mark for both the multiple-choice and hazard perception sections. Failing either section requires retaking the entire test.
What are the hazard perception exercises?
When completing the hazard perception module, you’ll be required to watch a series of video clips. These contain footage of everyday situations that you may encounter whilst driving a car. Although the videos are made using CGI technology, they provide an accurate representation of typical driving scenarios. All of the clips are filmed from the driver’s perspective, with the camera positioned directly behind the wheel. As a result, this gives the viewer the sense that they are driving the vehicle themselves.
Your task is to identify developing hazards when they first begin to materialise. A developing hazard is something that could cause a potential safety risk, and therefore require you to take some sort of action. As the driver, you might mitigate this threat by altering your speed, using a signal to inform other road users of your intentions, or changing direction. As soon as you spot a developing hazard, you should click the mouse as quickly as possible to demonstrate you’re aware of the risk.
Some examples of developing hazards:
- A pedestrian stepping onto the road from between parked vehicles.
- A cyclist with little room to manoeuvre
- A vehicle reversing into the road from a driveway
- Children exiting a school or approaching a crossing point
- Roadworks or traffic restrictions blocking the route ahead
- Animals suddenly appearing on the road
Scoring process
There are 14 video clips in total. One of these clips depicts two developing hazards, with the other 13 showing one developing hazard. The footage does not follow a specific order, so the video containing two developing hazards could land at any given moment.
You can gain a maximum of five points for each developing hazard you identify. Therefore, you’ll be able to score up to 75 points overall – each of the 13 videos conveying one hazard offers five points (a cumulative sum of 65 points), while you can score a total of ten points while addressing the other clip.
The faster you highlight the danger by clicking your mouse, the more points you will receive. You cannot hoodwink the software by clicking indiscriminately or in a methodical pattern. If you do either of these things, you will automatically score zero points for the video you’re watching. Therefore, it’s not worth trying to fool the system!
Pass criteria
You must score 44 points or more to pass this section of the assessment. As a result, you’ll need to gain at least 58.6% of the points on offer. If you earn three points or more while identifying each of the 14 developing hazards, you’ll achieve the required pass score. Therefore, it’s possible to pass this part of the test by adopting a focused and consistent approach.
Although 58.6% seems like a relatively modest score, the hazard perception exercises are considered extremely challenging. Many candidates do not accumulate sufficient points during the hazard perception exercises, and are consequently unable to gain a theory test certificate. You need to answer at least 43 (86%) of the 50 multiple-choice questions correctly to pass the first part of the assessment. However, more candidates fail the hazard perception module despite its lower pass threshold. Remember, you must successfully navigate both segments to pass the theory test.
Mock tests
To give yourself the best possible chance of achieving the required pass score, we would encourage you to take some mock tests. This will enable you to get used to the format of the video clips, and practice detecting potential hazards. It may also serve to speed up your reaction times, and perfect your mouse-clicking technique! Please ensure you have sufficient time to properly address each video clip, so you can avoid rushing your responses. By carefully reviewing all of the footage and conducting the test without the support of any peers, you can accurately gauge your current level of capability. If you fail to earn 44 points the first time around, you’ll know you have some work to do!
There are numerous mock tests available online. It’s always good to use official DVSA materials, so we would recommend accessing the assessments uploaded onto the Safe Driving for Life website. However, many reputable sites provide mock hazard perception exercises. Complete as many mock tests as you can – the more you practice, the better your score will be!
When will I know if I’ve passed this part of the test?
As soon as you’ve completed the theory test, you can report to reception to collect your results. You’ll receive an outcome letter. This will confirm whether or not you’ve passed the assessment, and provide a full breakdown of your scores. Therefore, you’ll be able to quickly find out how you’ve performed.
If you’ve managed to answer at least 43 multiple-choice questions correctly and accumulated 44 or more points during the hazard perception module, you’ll also receive a theory test pass certificate – congratulations! However, it’s important not to be too self-critical if you fail. The pass rate for the theory test is less than 50%, and therefore a considerable number of candidates need to re-sit this assessment.
Summary
Although the hazard perception exercises are often difficult, it’s possible to pass this module on your first attempt if you adopt the right approach. It’s useful to know how many points you need to score to pass, as this provides a target to aim for while responding to each clip. Therefore, you’ve already taken your first step towards success!
To hit the required benchmark, you’ll need to revise thoroughly, conduct plenty of mock tests, and keep a cool head during the exam. Good luck!