Hazard perception test: how it works and the pass mark

We do not cover this part of the test. DriveQuiz is a question quiz about the Highway Code and road signs. It has no video clips, and it will not prepare you for hazard perception. This page explains the test so you know what to practise elsewhere.

How it works

Before it starts, you watch a video about how the test works.
You then watch 14 video clips of everyday road scenes.
Each clip has at least one developing hazard, and one clip has two.
You get one attempt at each clip, and you cannot review or change your responses.

What a developing hazard is

GOV.UK defines a developing hazard as something that would make you take action, like changing speed or direction. Its example: a car parked at the side of the road is not a developing hazard while it is just parked. When its right-hand indicator starts to flash and it begins to move away, you would need to slow down, so it has become a developing hazard.

How the scoring works

You can score up to 5 points for each developing hazard. The sooner you click once the hazard starts to develop, the higher the score.
You do not lose points for clicking at the wrong time.
If you click continuously or in a pattern, you score nothing for that clip.

The pass mark

You need 44 out of 75 points. Hazard perception is part of the theory test: you must pass it and the multiple-choice questions at the same sitting, and if you fail either part you take the whole test again. See the theory test explained.

How to practise

Practice clips are video, and you need a DVSA licence to use the official ones: the DVSA says it is a criminal offence to use its theory test questions or hazard perception clips in a product without a licence. GOV.UK points to the official guide to hazard perception and the official DVSA hazard perception apps.

You can also practise on every journey as a passenger. The Highway Code’s rule 146 asks drivers to be prepared for unexpected or difficult situations and to try to anticipate what pedestrians and cyclists might do. Say out loud what might happen next: the parked car that might pull out, the child near the kerb, the cyclist checking over their shoulder.

Quick check

How many clips are in the hazard perception test?
A. 10 · B. 14 · C. 20
Show answer
B. 14. You watch 14 video clips. Source: Theory test: hazard perception test, GOV.UK
What is the most you can score for one developing hazard?
A. 1 point · B. 5 points · C. 10 points
Show answer
B. 5 points. You can score up to 5 points for each developing hazard. Source: Theory test: hazard perception test, GOV.UK
What happens if you click continuously during a clip?
A. You score nothing for that clip · B. You score the maximum · C. You lose 5 points
Show answer
A. You score nothing for that clip. You will not score anything if you click continuously or in a pattern. Source: Theory test: hazard perception test, GOV.UK

Sources

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.

Next guide: the theory test explained

The hazard perception test explained