Wednesday, December 14, 2011

How can you pass your driving theory test first time?

Passing a driving test on the first time is not an easy mission. You are put under a big pressure to pass, and a failure can get you down for the next time. Also, only about 50% of driving students pass their test on the first time. It seems like parallel parking is the thing that keeps many driving students away from the license. However, there is a way.

Many learner drivers have difficulty overcoming the first obstacle of the driving test called "The Car Theory Test". Many people fail taking it whereas most gifted learner drivers are already familiar and reasonably knowledgeable about the skills and rules needed to be complied when driving that will enable them to become safe drivers. Here are a few steps or guidelines that will enable learner drivers to be confident enough in passing the online theory test UK first time.

The first, Quick Test, allows you to customize your test by selecting the number of questions you are asked, change the timing options and choose whether or not to include previously correctly answered questions, though it will always ask a mixture of questions from across the 14 categories. Once you've answered all the questions you go back to the start to check each answer and, when you are happy with your answers, you tap the finish button. At the end it gives you your mark and percentage, then an explanation of the correct answers, with the option to retry or go back to the Main menu.

The second mode, DSA, again allows you to customize your test, but this time you choose which one of the 14 categories you would like to answer questions from, so if you feel you need to work on a particular category you can. The easiest way to tell which area you need work on is by looking at the graph on the main menu. The graph will display the last marks you achieved in the Mock theory test; if your result appears under the pass line then those are the areas that need most work.

Custom Test is much of the same as far as customizing is concerned, but this time you select fifty questions from which categories you want by tapping the plus or minus button on each section until you have fifty. Mock Theory is the main test: you are asked fifty questions and have just under an hour minutes to complete the test. There's no customizing this time around, although you can still choose not to be asked previously correctly answered questions.

All the questions that you could be asked in your theory test are covered, with explanations for the answers too. An easy to use layout and variety of game modes, although limited, are all present. The left or right handed option is a nice, if necessary, touch. Had the game contained a two-player mode or some mini-games it would have scored more highly, but you can't fault what is actually present in the game. The lack of music gets a bit boring, but then there is no music on the real-life test day to entertain you either. The main problem is once you've passed your test, there is little to go back for.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

How to pass driving test with confidence

When you are on driving vehicles, it becomes your responsibility to avoid some common accidents/hazards. Be aware all time and use your commonsense as soon as possible.

Every person is different and each individual takes different times to accomplish things, so don't be put off if one of your friend's or colleague's pass way before you've even if you haven't started to think about your tests. It's not a race.
Learning to drive can be very daunting, particularly as learners have to navigate their way around both a practical exam and a not-too-easy theory test too.

The theory test serves up official DSA theory questions - it contains more than 900 of them - letting users study by different topics such as motorway rules, safety, hazard awareness and so on.

The questions generated appear randomly so you can't just memorize the order like a friend helping you learn but without having to ask them for a favour really. Users can also select just how many questions they want each time, meaning it's an ideal app to help squeeze in a bit of prep whether you have two minutes spare or half an hour.

There's also a handy Mock theory test mode so you can see just how well - or how badly - you'd do if you were in the exam hot seat for real. Rather than just giving a score at the end of the exam, the app will show you the right answers and an explanation of why that's the case. It's certainly an eye opener.

You can also chart your progress through these online theory test to see how much better you're getting as you're brain absorbs the information.

The first, Quick Test, allows you to customize your DSA theory driving test by selecting the number of questions you are asked, change the timing options and choose whether or not to include previously correctly answered questions, though it will always ask a mixture of questions from across the 14 categories. Once you've answered all the questions you go back to the start to check each answer and, when you are happy with your answers, you tap the finish button.

At the end it gives you your mark and percentage, then an explanation of the correct answers, with the option to retry or go back to the Main menu.

All the questions that you could be asked in your theory test are covered, with explanations for the answers too. An easy to use layout and variety of game modes, although limited, are all present.

Monday, December 5, 2011

Driving test with special requirements

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) provides a number of facilities for those people with special requirements, these include foreign language voiceovers, extra time, British Sign Language interpretation and translator assisted tests.

Facilities for those whose first language is not English:

If your first language is not English, or you can not read or understand written English well, you can request a voiceover in one of 21 languages. A voiceover allows you to hear the theory test instructions and questions through headphones. The questions will automatically be read out to you, you can hear the answer options by touching the text on the screen. You can hear the questions as many times as you like, you simply need to touch the text of the question onscreen again.

Foreign language voiceovers are available in the following languages:
Albanian, Arabic, Bengali, Cantonese, Dari, English, Farsi, Gujarati, Hindi, Kashmiri, Kurdish, Mirpuri, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Pushto, Spanish, Tamil, Turkish, Urdu, Welsh.

Translator assisted tests:

If there is no voiceover provided in the language you require, you can request to have a translator assisted theory test. The call centre agent should be able to tell you the names and contact details of the relevant DSA approved translators. It is your responsibility to arrange a test date with the translator and to pay any fees involved.

Facilities for those with reading difficulties:

If you have dyslexia or other reading difficulties you can ask for an English or Welsh voiceover. You can also request to have up to double time for the multiple choice part of the theory test. If you require more than the standard time of 40 minutes for the multiple choice part you will need to send in evidence of your reading difficulty to the theory test booking customer services.

Facilities for those with hearing difficulties:

If you are deaf or have hearing difficulties you can ask to take the theory test in British sign language (BSL). The BSL interpretation will run alongside the standard test questions and answers. If you do not use BSL, an interpreter can be taken into the test centre, this facility needs to be arranged through the theory test customer services section. There is no extra fee for either facility.

Other special requirements:

If you have a special need that is not met by the facilities above, you can contact the theory test customer services section who can discuss your requirements and the facilities available.

Friday, December 2, 2011

Booking Online Driving Test UK

Are you ready for DSA driving theory test? Book your DSA driving test online

You can book theory test either online, on telephone or even by post. You can use any option which suits you. All confirmed Driving test booking can be changed, cancelled or rescheduled given that you give DSA three clear working days and there are slots available.

We advise that before you Book driving test you are fully prepared for it. Make sure -
  • You have solved enough random multiple choice mock theory testquestions.
  • to know Highway code traffic signs, road rules and regulations
  • know very well about hazard perception test and scoring mechanism

Once you are ready for DSA driving theory test booking online, you will receive DSA Theory test booking confirmation by post.

Here are some important things to remember when you are going for the test.

What happens at the theory test centre?

You should arrive at the test centre in plenty of time. Once you have registered at reception you will go through to the test room. You may not take anything into the room with you; all personal items must be stored in the lockers provided. Once you are in the test room you may not talk to or distract other candidates. The computer screen will display your name and the category of test you are taking. If you have any problems during the theory test, you should raise your hand to attract the attention of the test invigilator.

What do I need to take to the theory test centre?

You must bring the following items with you. If you do not, DSA may refuse to carry out the test and you may lose your fee.
  • Both parts of your valid signed GB or NI (Northern Ireland) driving licence.
  • If you have an old-style paper licence you must bring both your paper licence and a valid passport.
  • Your appointment letter.
Please Note: If you misplace your license, you must apply for a replacement from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), which could take up to15 days. If this happens, you may have to re-arrange your test.

Monday, November 28, 2011

Learner bike drivers - Defensive riding tips for motorcycle drivers

BikeSafe is an initiative run by Police Forces around the United Kingdom who work with the whole of the biking world to help to lower the number of motorcycle rider casualties. Bikesafe publishes information for bike drivers.

Following are some driving test tips for motorcycle drivers.

You may find these tips helpful if you are learning to drive or preparing for your motorcycle practical test.

Junctions -

The most common accident type was another vehicle crossing the motorcyclist's path to enter or leave a side road or private drive. At roundabouts, the most common accident type was another vehicle entering the roundabout in the path of a motorcyclist already on the roundabout. Over 1 in 5 of all motorcycle accidents was of this type, where the motorcyclist had right of way.

Tips:
  1. Plan ahead on approaching junctions
  2. Be aware of vehicles waiting to enter the main road, or approaching it along a side road, and be prepared to stop and take evasive action.
  3. In urban areas look out for vehicles emerging from driveways.
  4. Anticipate the presence of drives/side roads concealed from view by bends, vegetation, or vehicles ahead.
  5. Ensure that you are visible as possible to other drivers:
  6. As narrow vehicles, motorcyclists can easily be overlooked, and can be completely hidden from view by intervening lamp columns, telegraph poles etc. along the other drives line of sight.
  7. Choose appropriate speeds on approaches to junction. A driver emerging from a side road, cannot give way to a motorcyclist who cannot yet be seen, but which appears at high speed before the manoeuvre is completed. This is particularly applicable to slow moving goods vehicles or farm vehicles.
Overtaking -

About 1 in 5 of motorcyclist accidents involve overtaking. Almost 1 in 3 of the overtaking accidents involved motorcyclists passing stationary or slow moving vehicles e.g. in traffic queues, where the most common accident type was another vehicle turning right (either into or out of a side road or private drive) or U turning, across the motorcyclists path. In other overtaking accidents, the commonest accident type was when the overtaken vehicle turned right as he motorcyclist was overtaking.

Tips:
  1. Be as visible as possible to other drivers.
  2. Anticipate that other drivers may not have seen you and be prepared for their actions.
  3. Do not overtake near side roads or where cars may emerge from private drives/accesses; or do so with caution.
  4. Be aware of oncoming vehicles which may turn right across your path.
Bends

About 1 in 4 of motorcycle accidents occurred on bends.

Tips:
  1. Ensure speed is appropriate to negotiate bend without losing control, taking account of road surface condition.
  2. Anticipate hazards which may be concealed by the bend and be able to stop in time to avoid them.
General riding

Many of the riders involved in accidents were not driving appropriately for the conditions, especially with regard to speed (in 1 in 4 of the accidents excess speed was a contributory factor).

Drivers of vehicles are often unaware of a motorcyclist’s presence. It is necessary for motorcyclists to become 'defensive' drivers in order to avoid becoming casualties.

Theory test booking with DSA :

Theory test appointments can be booked, and subject to three clear working days notice, be changed and cancelled using our online booking service.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Tips to pass your Driving test in 1st attempt

The motorbike theory test is made up of two parts: multiple choice part and hazard perception part.

The first part in motorbike test is the multiple choice part consisting of 50 questions. This section is designed to test your understanding of the theory behind driving. You need to get 43 questions right out of 50 and the time limit is 57 minutes.



The motorbike test is a computer-based test at various tests centres around the country.
This section is designed to test your understanding of the theory behind driving. Before the motorbike theory test starts you'll be given instructions on how the test works.

You can also choose to go through a practice session of the multiple choice driving test questions to get used to the layout of the test. At the end of the practice session the real test will begin.

The second part in motorbike test is the Hazard perception. This section is designed to test your awareness of potential hazards whilst driving. You will be shown 14 clips of 1 minute each having 15 hazards in all (1 clip will have 2 hazards).
The test is for 75 marks (5 marks / hazard) and pass marks are 44. The hazard perception part is also delivered on a computer but you respond by clicking a button on the mouse. The earlier you spot a hazard developing that may require the driver to take some action, the higher the score.

Unlike multiple choice questions, for the hazard perception test there are no separate versions for different vehicles e.g. car, bike, heavy vehicle etc, each vehicle category takes the same test, however the pass mark is different for different categories of tests.

You won't be able to review your answers to the hazard perception test; as on the road, you'll only have one chance to respond to the developing hazard. For information about hazard perception test visit our site.

If you pass one part and fail the other you will fail the whole motorbike theory test , and need to take both parts again.

At the end of the hazard perception part of the theory test you'll be invited to answer few customer survey questions.
Once you have passed motorbike test only then you can apply to take the practical driving test.

Motorbike practical test:

The aim of the new test is to improve the standard of the skill and road safety of motorbike and moped riders. This group amongst all users of the road faces the highest risk of injury or death, particularly in the case for young and inexperienced riders.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Booking driving test, preparation and DSA theory and practical test

Book driving test appointment:

The beginning towards getting a full license is to booking driving test for your Theory test exam. You need to book your test at a test center nearest and most convenient to you. You can book your test either online, telephone or even by post.

Driving test appointments can be booked and subject to three clear working days notice, be canceled or changed using the online booking service or the telephone. You can also download an application form and apply by post. You will need to Make sure you have a valid provisional driving license before you can take your driving theory test. You can directly apply for a provisional driving license from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). The application form (form D1) can be obtained from your local Post Office. If you have a valid provisional driving license then you can book your theory test. 95 percent of theory test candidates receive an appointment date within two weeks of their preferred date but Waiting times vary from region to region.

To book driving test online and telephone you will need -

A valid UK provisional driving license
A valid debit or credit card for payment (MasterCard, Delta, Visa Electron, Visa, Switch/Maestro and Solo cards are accepted)

To book driving test by post you will need an application form. Application forms are available online or on request from the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) booking line. Payment can be made by cheque or postal order, but cash payments are not accepted.

Prepare for DSA theory test:

After your Theory test appointment has been confirmed you need to prepare for your theory test.

The test consists of two sections:

1. The Multiple choice part: The multiple choice section of the DSA test is designed to test your understanding of the theory behind driving. Each multiple choice test questions in DSA test vary according to the vehicle's category. i.e. a motorcycle driving test will contain specific questions that don't appear in any other DSA test. A question and several answer options will appear on computer's touch screen and you have to select the right answer to the question by touching the screen. Some questions may require more than one answer.

2. The Hazard perception part:

This part of the DSA driving test designed to test your awareness of potential hazards while driving. You will be shown with a series of 14 video clips. Each clip is about a minute long. which feature every day road scenes. In each clip there'll be at least one developing hazard and you need to click the mouse when you see a hazard developing. The videos feature various types of hazard, such as road conditions, vehicles and pedestrians. The earlier you spot a hazard developing that may require the driver to take some action, the higher the score. There are 15 score able hazards in the tests and candidates can score 0 to 5 points on each hazard.

The Practical driving test:

You need to pass practical driving test, after you have passed your theory test exam.

The driving part of your test will about 40 minutes. Throughout the practical test your examiner will be looking for an overall safe standard of driving, including when you are carrying out the set exercises. You can make up to 15 driving faults and still pass the test (16 or more results in failure). However, if you commit one serious or dangerous fault you will fail the practical test.

The Driving practical test will include a check eyesight (if you fail this check, your test will not continue). The eyesight check requires you to read a number plate that is a certain distance away. After the eyesight test you will be asked two vehicle safety check questions. You will then be examined on your general driving and on two reversing exercises.

The reversing exercises will be chosen from:

* Reversing around a corner
* Reverse parking
* Turning in the road

You may also be asked to carry out an emergency stop exercise.

During the driving test the examiner will give you directions which you should follow. Test routes are designed to be as uniform as possible and will include a range of typical road and traffic conditions. During the practical test, the examiner will ask you to carry out set exercises.

You can make up to 15 driving faults and still pass the test (16 or more results in failure). However, if you commit one serious or dangerous fault you will fail the test. If at any time your examiner considers you to be a danger to other road users your test will be stopped.

When your practical test is over, the examiner will tell you whether you passed or failed. You can request feedback on your test from the examiner, who will then go through your performance during the test.