The UK Driving Theory Test is a requirement for all those who wish to obtain the full licence required, in order to drive a car, a motorbike, a large goods vehicle or a bus or coach in the UK. It is designed to complement the practical experience that a learner driver will accumulate during their lessons and supervised practice.

The theory test is made up of two components: multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception component. In order to pass the test, you must gain a sufficiently high score on both components.

You can book a theory test before undertaking driving lessons, but, as the test is based on real-life scenarios, it is often helpful to have spent some time on the road beforehand.

It is necessary to pass the theory test, before you can book a practical driving test. The theory test is presented via a computer and will take place at your local testing centre.

If you pass the test, you will be given a pass certificate number that you will then use when booking your practical test. If you do not pass your practical test within two years, you will need to take the theory test again.

If you fail the theory test, you will be given a letter highlighting which questions you got wrong. There is no limit as to how many times you can take the theory test.

'The Highway Code' does not just provide rules for drivers and riders - it contains many rules, and a few laws, that pedestrians should follow, in order to stay safe on the road.

As a driver, it is important for you to be aware of these rules because they are directly relevant to the material covered by the theory test. In addition, they are also important for you to bear in mind as a pedestrian.

The rules cover how pedestrians should cross the road, and how they should respond in situations requiring extra caution, such as those involving buses, emergency vehicles and pavement closures.

Another group addressed in the Code are users of invalid carriages. There are strict rules governing how fast these vehicles may travel, depending on whether they are used on the pavement or on the road.

Riders using these vehicles need to be aware that they must observe the same rules and laws that apply to other drivers, for example, they need to abide by the same parking laws.
They also need to ensure that they use indicators and lights in the same way as required by other road users. When travelling at night, they have a legal obligation to use lights, to enable them to be seen.

There are over 50 rules in 'The Highway Code' that apply to all drivers and riders.

They include guidance on signalling, stopping procedures, lighting requirements, controlling a vehicle, lines and lane markings on the road, driving on multi-lane carriageways and general advice.

They specify how drivers and riders can keep themselves and other road users safe, whilst using the road.

The rules cover all general aspects of driving and also outline which vehicles may not be legally used on the road.

They also provide guidance on driving on various kinds of roads. These rules are extensive, but, for most people, they are implicit knowledge gained through experience as a passenger and as a learner driver.

Many of the rules are also just a matter of common sense. For example, it is obvious that loud music or using a mobile phone whilst driving or riding is likely to impair your concentration, putting you and others at risk.
As you learn to drive or ride, your instructor will draw your attention to various rules and laws to which you need to adhere as a road user. If there is anything that you do not quite understand, ask your instructor.

As part of their training, your instructor will have developed an in-depth knowledge of 'The Highway Code'.

When driving or riding, you have a legal obligation to make sure that the vehicle is roadworthy and that you are in a position to use it safely. You must report to the DVSA any medical conditions that could affect your driving; the DVSA may request that you surrender your licence.

You should always plan your journey before setting off, and make sure that you are comfortable in your seat before commencing driving, so that you retain adequate control over the vehicle, at all times.

Be aware that drugs and alcohol can seriously affect your ability to drive. Do not drink alcohol before setting off on a journey, and consider whether any medication that you are taking may have side effects, such as dizziness or sleepiness. If in doubt, check with a doctor or pharmacist.

If you wish to tow a trailer, make sure that you adhere to the weight limits set out by the DVSA and the vehicle manufacturer's handbook.

Finally, you must abide by the law, when carrying young passengers in a vehicle. Those aged 14 and over are responsible for their own seat belt use, but the onus is on the driver to make sure that young children are appropriately secured in their seats.

There are numerous hazards to look out for when driving, and the weather is one such source of potential danger. You will not always be able to drive in favourable weather conditions, so it is important that you understand what precautions you need to take in foggy, icy, hot, wintery, wet and windy weather.

Although, if at all possible, you should not drive between the hours of midnight and 6 am, you should know how to keep yourself and other road users safe, when driving in the dark. Know how and when to use your headlights, in such a way that minimises the chances of a collision.

Vulnerable road users are another potential hazard. Pedestrians are perhaps the most obvious group that warrant special attention, but cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders are also vulnerable to accidents and road-related injuries.

Always look out for people with disabilities, including those who are blind and those with limited mobility.

Finally, you should be aware that not all drivers are equally skilled or aware of their surroundings.

Pay particular attention to young drivers, inexperienced drivers, learner drivers, and older drivers.

Older drivers' reaction times and judgement may be impaired. Make allowances, and show courtesy to your fellow road users.

A knowledge of traffic signs and road markings is essential, not only for the theory test, but also for maintaining your safety on the road. Traffic signs have characteristic shapes and colours denoting their purpose - red triangles for warnings, rectangles of varying colours for information, and so on.

Amongst other purposes, signs inform you as to where you can park, where you can load and unload a vehicle, and the speed limit to which you must adhere, when driving along the road. They should be obeyed at all times.

Traffic lights are a type of signal that usually operate on a three-colour system, although other variations may be used in some circumstances.

Road markings are also used to guide drivers and riders. These include lines along the road, lines across the road, and lines at traffic lights, roundabouts and junctions. Commands may be painted on the road, so that users can read the message, even if the signs are obscured by trees. Markings also identify lanes and areas for specific types of vehicle, to maximise safety for all road users.

Finally, signs and markings must be heeded when using a level crossing, in order to avoid causing a serious or fatal incident.

To ensure your own safety, you must carry out regular checks on your vehicle. It is important that you check the levels of engine oil, the level of brake fluid, the windscreen and washer bottles, the battery, the water tank levels and the condition of your tyres. How frequently you make these checks depends on how often you use your car. Those who drive long distances most days should carry out checks several times each week.

In addition, you must ensure that your car is adequately serviced, as recommended by the manufacturer. These measures will help prevent breakdowns, but breakdowns can happen to anyone.

Keep a basic tool kit, high-visibility clothing and a first aid kit in your vehicle, so that you can respond promptly and appropriately, if you break down. It is also a good idea to be aware of how and when you should summon help, when using various types of road, including dual carriageways and motorways.
In addition, you should know what to do, if you are involved in a collision, come across a person in need of help or are first to arrive on the scene of an accident. You must keep your own safety in mind, even when you want or need to help others. A basic knowledge of first aid can save a life, so consider undertaking formal first aid training.

There are three main types of manoeuvres that you must learn, in order to be successful in the theory and practical components of the driving test: reversing, turning around and parking.

Although each one requires that you apply a different set of processes, there are underlying principles that apply, regardless of the exact manoeuvre.

You must maintain excellent observation throughout, and ask yourself three questions.

Firstly, are you in a suitable, safe location?

Secondly, is the place in which you intend to carry out the manoeuvre convenient?

Thirdly, is it legal to carry out your intended manoeuvre in this location?

If you are in any doubt, it is better to err on the side of caution and manoeuvre elsewhere.

Similar considerations apply, when you are navigating junctions. You must remain aware of what is happening around you, employing the Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) and Position-Speed-Look (PSL) routines on the approach. Thoroughly assess the situation, and always heed any road markings or signs.

You may have to demonstrate that you understand the potential hazards of turning left and right at a junction and that you understand the rules of different types of junctions. You may also have to show that you appreciate the particular dangers that junctions pose to vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists.

There are many potential areas that could come up on the theory test, as the questions are based on the contents of three books written by the DVSA. The prospect of learning and retaining this much information is daunting.

However, you should have already picked up much of this information, on an implicit basis, as a passenger. Good drivers can act as role models, and poor drivers can serve as cautionary tales.

You will usually have taken some driving lessons, prior to booking your theory test, and this will also have improved your knowledge.

If you are unsure about any of the rules governing safe and appropriate road use, ask your driving instructor for clarification.

When revising for the theory test, you can use practice tests, to assess your current level of competence. Revision techniques, such as writing your own questions and scheduled learning, are also helpful.

Gaining control over your nerves is another aspect involved in preparing for your theory test. Knowing how the nervous system works and how to regain control over your emotions will help you face the test with confidence.

Remind yourself, that even if you fail, there is no limit to the number of times that you can take the test.

Look at the theory test, not only as a means to an end, but a process that will help you become a safe, capable driver.

There is no minimum number of lessons that you must have taken and no minimum number of hours of practice that you must have undertaken, before you can book a driving test.

Those looking to obtain a motorcycle licence need to pass two separate tests, which may be taken on the same day.

Both car and motorcycle tests require you to demonstrate that your eyesight meets a predetermined standard and that you have a basic knowledge of how your vehicle works. Your examiner will assess your general driving ability, along with your competence in carrying out particular manoeuvres, such as a turn in the road. You will receive your results immediately after the test, and you can drive straightaway.

The DVSA does not provide vehicles for test use, and it is your responsibility to ensure that the car or bike that you are using meets the DVSA's requirements. Most people elect to use their driving instructor's vehicle, but you can use your own vehicle.

During your test, you are allowed to have someone over the age of 16 sit in the back seat of the car - most people choose their driving instructor.

If you fail the test, your instructor will know exactly why and can therefore make an informed decision as to what they should cover in upcoming lessons.