UK theory test FAQ 2026: how many questions, pass mark, cost
UK theory test questions, answered with facts from DVSA.
The car theory test for Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) has 50 multiple-choice questions; you need 43 of 50 (86%) to pass, in 57 minutes, per DVSA; the hazard perception part needs 44 of 75; questions come from The Highway Code (plus 'Know your traffic signs' and 'Driving - the essential skills') (updated 22 October 2025).
Practice format (official): Our practice tests use the official format — 50 questions, 43 of 50 (86%) to pass, 57 minutes on the timer.
The UK (Great Britain) car theory test in brief
How many questions are on the theory test?
The UK (Great Britain) car theory test has 50 multiple-choice questions, per DVSA. It also has a hazard perception part with 14 video clips.
What is the pass mark for the theory test?
You need 43 of 50 (86%) on the multiple-choice part and 44 of 75 on hazard perception, per DVSA.
Is the theory test hard?
You need 43 of 50 (86%) to pass, so in the official 50-question format you can get at most 7 wrong. The best preparation is to study The Highway Code (plus 'Know your traffic signs' and 'Driving - the essential skills') (updated 22 October 2025) and take practice tests until you pass them comfortably.
How much does the theory test cost?
£23 for the whole test (multiple-choice and hazard perception, booked together), per DVSA.
Is there a free mock theory test for 2026?
Yes. This site has 2 free UK (Great Britain) car theory test practice tests for 2026, each with 50 questions and the official pass mark of 43 of 50 (86%), plus a free road-sign quiz.
Time limit, retakes, age and ID
How long is the theory test?
The UK (Great Britain) car theory test has a 57 minutes time limit, per DVSA.
Can I retake the theory test if I fail?
At least 3 working days; the whole test must be rebooked even if one part was passed. No attempt cap stated. Pass certificate number lasts 2 years.
How old do you have to be to take the theory test?
The minimum age is 17, per DVSA.
What do I need to bring to the theory test?
Provisional driving licence needed to book. At the test: UK photocard driving licence (Northern Ireland: photocard + paper counterpart; paper licence: also a valid passport).
Which handbook is the theory test based on?
The Highway Code (plus 'Know your traffic signs' and 'Driving - the essential skills') (updated 22 October 2025). You can read it on the official site.
Official source: Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). Handbook: The Highway Code (plus 'Know your traffic signs' and 'Driving - the essential skills').
Start the free UK (Great Britain) car theory test practice test 1 · Road-sign quiz
Last updated 13 October 2026.