Help! I failed my Theory Test (2024)

FAQs

What can I do if I can't pass my theory test? ›

If you fail

You'll get a letter at the test centre. It'll tell you which parts you did not score enough points on so you know what to practise. You must book and take the full test again, even if you passed one part this time. You have to wait at least 3 working days before taking your test again.

What's the average number of theory test attempts and fails? Passing the theory test might not be as straightforward as it sounds. In fact, the 2019/20 pass rate was 47.7%, meaning that more than 1 in 2 candidates didn't reach the pass mark on either one or both sections.

We often hear learners complaining they only failed the theory test "by one mark" - but this actually means they got 8 questions wrong. Try to pass with as close to 100% as possible to safeguard you on the day of your actual test, where you may also be faced by nerves and distractions.

There are also no limits on how many attempts you can take. You'll also get a letter at the test centre showing which parts of the test you answered incorrectly, so you can fill in your knowledge gaps. Your driving instructor will offer as much support as they can to help you pass the theory test.

Ultimately, it all boils down to two main factors: how much the theory test format has changed over the years and how learners choose to prepare for the theory test.

Are you curious about the theory test pass rates? The most recent car theory test data published on the GOV website is for theory tests taken between April 2022 and March 2023. Within that period, the theory test pass rate for car learner drivers was just 44.2%.

How Many Questions Do I Need Right to Pass My Driving Theory Test? To pass this section of your theory test, you will be required to have correctly answered 42 out of the 50 questions (i.e. 86%).

It's doubtful that you managed to completely ace them without having to do any revision whatsoever. The best way to prepare for any test is to make time for some solid revision. Rome wasn't built in a day—the same applies for your theory knowledge.

This can happen if you're not paying attention, if you're rushing, or if you're feeling stressed. Not being able to identify hazards. The hazard perception test is a part of the theory test that assesses your ability to identify and react to hazards on the road.

If you've got a bit more time to study, The official DVSA handbook or the AA theory test book are great revision resources; They both contain official DVSA questions with answers. Revise them thoroughly—they could show up on your test.

What happens if I can't pass my theory test? ›

First Things First: Book Another Test

However, your earliest slot could be anywhere from a couple of days to several weeks. It's possible to book another theory test more or less immediately after learning you've failed. However, rules state you've got to wait a full 72 hours before taking it again.

The pass rate for the theory test has fallen from 65% in the 2007/08 to 44% in 2022/23, according to the Department for Transport. "There's no doubt it's a tough test and these learners' commitment to passing is amazing," said AA Driving School managing director Camilla Benitz.

Don't click too often: You will end up failing as the computer will not know when you actually see a hazard. Would you need to change direction?: This can also show a potential hazard to a driver.

There are no strict rules in place to determine whether learners should or shouldn't pass the theory test before they start driving lessons. It's all down to personal preference.

If you're serious about passing your driving theory test, you should be taking at least 5 mock theory tests consecutively. This will help you get used to the format of the test and identify any areas where you need to improve. Make sure you flag any difficult questions so you can revision them later.