Pass the Hazard Perception Test tips

Are you preparing to take your hazard perception test and wondering what it takes to pass it? Read on as motoring journalist and expert Pete Barden looks at the details of the hazard perception test, explaining everything you need to ensure you get a pass and move one step closer to gaining your full UK driving licence.

Can you spot any developing hazards? Find out how to pass the Hazard Perception Test to get on the way to gaining your full licence.  (Credit: Daniel Karasiński/Unsplash)

Do you need a provisional driving licence to take the Hazard Perception Test and Theory Test?

You must have a provisional driving licence before you can take the Hazard Perception Test and Theory Test. Without this document, you will not be able to take either test. 

What is the Hazard Perception Test?

The Hazard Perception Test is part of the Theory Test that all learners and drivers must take and pass before they can progress to take the practical driving test.

Before starting the Hazard Perception Test, candidates are presented with a video that shows how it works. This initial video is designed to familiarise learner drivers with the test format and show them what to expect in the actual test. To succeed in this test, it's crucial to grasp the concept of 'developing hazards' – such as cars approaching fast on side roads – the central theme of the assessment.

What happens in the test?

During the Hazard Perception Test, candidates will view 14 video clips, each depicting everyday road scenes. These clips are not merely passive observations but interactive scenarios that must be acted on. The candidate must be able to spot 'developing hazards' as they unfold within the 14 clips. While most of the clips contain just one developing hazard, one of them has two that must be identified by the person taking the test.

What is a 'developing hazard'?

A developing hazard is a situation on the road that demands a response from the driver. This real-world response could involve changing your speed, altering your direction, or taking any necessary action to ensure safety.

What is an example of a developing hazard?

To make the concept of a developing hazard more straightforward, the official DVSA page gives an example of hazards and non-hazards. Imagine a car parked at the side of the road, motionless and seemingly not causing any problems. In this static state, it wouldn't prompt you to take any action; hence, it is not considered a developing hazard.

However, as you approach the car, it suddenly activates its right-hand indicator and begins to pull away. Now, this changes the scenario. To avoid a potential collision, the driver must slow down, making it a developing hazard.

The candidate then clicks their computer mouse or trackpad to show that they believe they have identified a potential developing hazard.

How does the scoring work?

In the hazard perception test, the person taking the test can accrue a maximum of 5 points for each successfully identified developing hazard. To achieve a high score, the candidate must click the mouse as soon as they believe they spot the hazard beginning to develop within the clip.

Do I lose points for incorrect clicks?

It's important to note that there is no penalty for incorrect clicks. Candidates won't lose points if they make a premature click or miss a developing hazard.

However, excessive and continuous clicking or clicking in a predictable pattern will be spotted by the system and won't result in scoring points.

Can I retake a clip if I make a mistake?

No. Candidates only get one opportunity to take each clip. Once the person has clicked to identify a developing hazard or missed one, they cannot review or alter their response.

This helps to simulate real-world driving scenarios where quick decision-making is essential.

How to pass the Hazard Perception Test

The hazard perception test is a critical component of the driver licensing process. It assesses a driver’s ability to anticipate and respond to road hazards. To succeed, keep a constant lookout for developing hazards, click promptly, and maintain your focus throughout the 14 video clips - as you would need to when driving on real roads. 

Can I take a practice Hazard Perception Test?

Yes - you can go online from home or work etc and take a practice Hazard Perception Test for free. The interactive test video works like the real Hazard Perception Test and asks candidates to click on developing hazards. There are three clips and candidates will be told if they pass or fail the practice test. Take the online Hazard Perception Test practice here.

How much is the Hazard Perception Test?

The Theory Test, which includes the Hazard Perception Test will cost candidates £23. 

Can I take tests online at home?

No - the Hazard Perception Test and wider Theory Test cannot be taken remotely at your home or other location. 

Candidates must take the tests in one of the 150 test centres across the UK. 

You can find your nearest driving test centre by entering your postcode here. 

 

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