Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Driving Theory Test Tips

Driving Standards Agency introduced the driving theory test in 1996. According to this test, new learners and drivers have to pass the theory test before they book their practical test. The test focuses on all aspects of driving theory such as attitude, safety, handling, rules of the road, traffic and road signs etc. It helps the new driver to acquire the in depth knowledge of driving test.

The first element is the Theory Test which consists of a multiple choice test that is sat on a computer at one of a number of locations designated by the Driving Standards Agency. The second part of the test is labeled the Hazard Perception Test which is also sat on a computer and immediately follows the conclusion of the Theory Test.

Just fewer than fifty percent of those taking the Theory Test are unsuccessful at their first attempt. Even a larger proportion of candidates coming from ethnic minority backgrounds are unsuccessful at their first attempt. So how do we explain the poor pass rates within the ethnic minority groups?

The first Option allows the user to take a practice test with both the question and answers available in both English and one of two other languages. This test option provides continuous feedback and allows one to get as much practice as required building confidence for the real test.

The second test option is a simulation of the actual theory test which the student will sit on the day of the exam. It looks and feels very similar to the actual test. Much like the actual test on the day, the student will be timed and be provided with feedback at the end of each session.

Sometimes students click too late resulting in a low score. To get round this problem it is important to understand what is meant by a hazard. A hazard is anything which may cause you to change speed or direction. Now we have to distinguish between a potential hazard and an actual hazard. Integrating theoretical hazard perception test training into the practical training sessions will ensure that as competence is achieved in each of the necessary skills, they can be strengthened and applied while you are on the road to increase the road safety benefits.

There are plenty of driving test book, theory test book, UK driving test cd, driving test dvd, practical test book, practical driving test book and driving practical test book are available in the market which will help you to pass driving theory test and hazard perception tests.

Monday, July 4, 2011

The Driving theory test and Practical driving test information

Minimum ages and rules:

You can take your theory test once your provisional driving licence becomes valid.

Normally, for car drivers, the earliest date your provisional licence can become valid is your 17th birthday, however you can apply for the licence up to three months before your 17th birthday.

So, if you apply for your provisional licence before you are 17 you will still have to wait until your birthday before you can take your theory test.

Disability living allowance:

If you are receiving disability living allowance at the higher rate your provisional licence will come into effect when you are 16, but you can apply for it within three months of your 16th birthday.

Motorcyclists Direct access scheme:

Direct access is a scheme, which allows a person over the age of 21 to avoid the two year/25 kW restriction by taking a driving test on a machine of at least 35 kW (46.6 bhp). A pass allows you to ride any size of bike. Any instruction given on a machine that exceeds the normal learner motorcycle specification must be supervised at all times by a certified motorcycle instructor who should be in radio contact. You should also wear fluorescent or reflective clothing and follow all other provisional licence restrictions.

Accelerated access:

Riders who reach the age of 21, while still within the two year period where they are restricted to maximum 25 kW (33 bhp) machines, but who wish to ride larger bikes need to pass a further test on a motorcycle of at least 35 kW (46.6 bhp). They may practise on bikes over 25 kW (33 bhp) under the same practice conditions for direct access riders. You will revert to learner status while practising (on a motorcycle greater than 25 kW (33 bhp) although test failure will not affect your existing licence.

Mopeds and tractors:

If you want to ride a moped you can take your motorbike theory test when you are 16, but again you must make sure you have a valid provisional licence. If you are 16 and already have a provisional licence for an agricultural vehicle or a moped, this will give you provisional entitlement to drive a car when you are 17.

Rules for learner drivers:

Before you start to drive, you must:
  • Hold a valid, provisional driving licence for Great Britain or Northern Ireland
  • Make sure that any vehicle you drive is roadworthy and properly taxed and insured
  • If you want to practise your driving with an accompanying driver, the accompanying driver must be over the age of 21 and must have held (and still hold) a full licence for three years.
  • As a learner driver, you must display 'L' plates ('L' or 'D' plates in Wales) in a conspicuous position on the front and rear of the vehicle you are driving.
  • You're limited to less powerful motorbikes.
Apply for provisional license:

If you have never held a driving licence before you will need to apply for a provisional licence. You cannot start to drive a car until your provisional driving licence has been accepted and in your possession.

About driving theory test:

Preparing for your theory test is essential if you want to become a safe, responsible driver or rider. If you are a learner driver, you must take and pass your theory test before you book your practical driving test. The theory test is a computer based test and can be taken at various tests centres around the country.

Passing your driving theory test is your first step towards being a safe driver on the road.

DSA driving theory test consists of two elements:

A. Multiple choice questions:

This section is designed to tests your understanding of the theory behind driving. There is a 15-minute practice session you can work through before starting the tests. There are 50 randomly selected, multiple-choice questions and you need to get at least 43 answers right to pass.

B. Hazard perception test:

This is the second section of the theory test and must be passed at the same time. Hazard perception test is conducted to test the ability of learner drivers how they will respond to hazards on the road while driving. There are 14 videos, each about a minute long. This section is designed to tests your awareness of potential hazards whilst driving.

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 scoreable hazards in the tests and candidates can score up to 5 points on each hazard. The pass mark is 44 out of 75.

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Driving theory test: Complete information

Theory test introduction:

The theory test is created with two parts; the multiple choice section and the hazard perception test section. If you pass one section and fail the other you'll fail the entire test, and you'll require taking both sections again. Immediately after you have passed the theory test you can then apply to take your practical driving test.

The theory test consists of 50 questions in a multiple choice format and you need at least 43 correct answers to pass. All the questions will look on a computer screen which is touch sensible. The questions are designed to be very easy to read, only looking one at a time. It will be possible to skip forwards and backwards through the questions, and can take up to 57 minutes to complete the theory test.

Before you can apply for your practical driving test, you must pass your theory test.

The questions may cover the following topics:-
  • Alertness
  • Safety and Your Vehicle
  • Attitude
  • Vulnerable Road Users
  • Safety Margins
  • Hazard Awareness
  • Vehicle Loading
  • Vehicle Handling
  • Other Types of Vehicle (Motorcyclists, Lorries, Buses)
  • Rules of the Road
  • Motorway Rules
  • Road and Traffic Signs
  • Accidents
If you have special needs then at the time of your Theory test booking it is important that you state your needs so that the necessary arrangements can be made by DSA.

The theory test can be taken in 20 other languages through the use of a headset giving a voice-over. The available languages are- Spanish, Albanian, Arabic, Farsi, Cantonese, Hindi, Bengali, Turkish, Gujarati, Dari, Kashmiri, Punjabi, Kurdish, Polish, Mirpuri, Portuguese, Pushto, Tamil and Urdu.

You may be able to take a translator, if your language is not offered. The translator must be approved by the DSA and at present can only be accommodated at the following theory test centers- Aldershot, Birmingham, Derby, Birkenhead, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Ipswich, Preston, Leeds, Milton Keynes, Glasgow and Palmers Green.

If you fail your theory test, you may retake the theory test as many times. However, you must wait a minimum of three working days between each test attempt. You must prepare your test vary well before you attempt your theory test will save your time and money.

In most test centres you will get your result and, if you pass, your theory test pass certificate within about half an hour of completing the theory test.

In most test centres you get your test result within about half an hour of completing the theory test and if you pass, you get your theory test pass certificate as well.

You may be able to simply exchange it to a UK licence, If you hold a foreign license. You would need to ask to the Driver Vehicle Licencing Agency. You do not have to take a theory test if you are updating your current full UK licence.

Monday, May 23, 2011

Really important features of hazard perception test

Theory test is mainly consisting of two parts: first is theory part and second is practical test part. But in first parts again 2 parts, one is theory test questions and second one is hazard perception test part. Hazard test can be passed with the help of clips, videos etc.

Theory test UK aims that while driving a vehicle you are fully ready and are conscious. It is basically based on your intelligence that how much conscious are you. Because it is noticed that the drivers having driving license faces less accidents as compared to non trained drivers. If you are crossed your age of 17 years, you should have your driving licence.

There are minimum age requirements put in place by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) which must be met by anyone wishing to learn to drive. These age requirements are in place for driving a motorcycle, car or other vehicle and driving outside of these age requirements is a criminal offence.

Driving test online uk to drive vehicles in road is mainly consist of two parts which should be passed at the same time. But you are going to take our theory test uk examination its become very important to pass hazard perception test also with theory questions.

Practical driving test

Hazard perception test is very much important step to have your driving license. It’s compulsory to pass and not very tough.

Before knowing the whole hazard test first of all you should be familiar with "Hazard". Hazard is nothing but the obstruction or barrier in road/highway against your vehicle. Hazard test especially attached with the same goal that by passing hazard test for driving licence you will be able to control your vehicle with some extra efforts.

There are many ways to pass Driving theory tests uk and drive safe. Like Via driving test CD, driving test DVD and driving test books etc. But before your examination date you should well prepare for you test.

There are some hazards you have to look:
  • Pedestrians or cyclists crossing the road
  • Vehicles emerging from side roads, parking places or driveways
  • Large vehicles moving over to your side of the road
  • Meeting oncoming vehicles on narrow roads or where other obstructions or slow moving vehicles make the road narrow
  • Loose pets and farmyard animals
  • Changes in the traffic movement and volume
  • Junctions and roundabouts
  • Horse riders
  • Weather conditions of the day
  • Road surfaces
  • Parked vehicles
  • Hidden junctions & turns
Hazard perception test examination process:

Each hazard clip will start with a freeze frame of the start of the video sequence and a count down from 10 will commence. At the end of the count down the clip will start to play and you will be required to click the mouse button each time you see a developing hazards.

How the scoring mechanism works:?
Each scoring window is divided into five equal segments and a score of five through to one allocated to each. Those responding in the first segment of the scoring window will score 5 and those in last segment a score of 1. Responses outside the window will score zero.

Thursday, April 21, 2011

The Highway Code - Driving in adverse weather conditions

226) You MUST use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced, generally
when you cannot see for more than 100 metres (328 feet). You may also
use front or rear fog lights but you MUST switch them off when visibility
improves (see Rule 236). Law RVLR regs 25 & 27 

More details Visit: British road signs
227) Wet weather.In wet weather, stopping distances will be at least double
those required for stopping on dry roads (see Rule 126). This is because
your tyres have less grip on the road. In wet weather
you should keep well back from the vehicle in front. This will
increase your ability to see and plan ahead
if the steering becomes unresponsive, it probably means that
water is preventing the tyres from gripping the road. Ease off
the accelerator and slow down gradually
the rain and spray from vehicles may make it difficult to see and
be seen.
be aware of the dangers of spilt diesel that will make the surface very
slippery (see ‘Vehicle maintenance, safety and security')
take extra care around pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse
riders.
      Icy and snowy weather
228) In winter check the local weather forecast for warnings of icy or snowy
weather. DO NOT drive in these conditions unless your journey is
essential. If it is, take great care and allow more time for your journey.
Take an emergency kit of de-icer and ice scraper, torch, warm clothing
and boots, first aid kit, jump leads and a shovel, together with a warm
drink and emergency food in case you get stuck or your vehicle breaks
down.
229)
Before you set off
you MUST be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows
you MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible
make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are demisted thoroughly.
remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users
check your planned route is clear of delays and that no further snowfalls or severe weather are predicted.
Laws CUR reg 30 & RVLR reg 23, VERA Sect 43 & RV(DRM)R reg 11 

More information visit: Highway code book
Highway Code - Alcohol And Drugs
230) When driving in icy or snowy weather
drive with care, even if the roads have been treated
keep well back from the road user in front as stopping distances
can be ten times greater than on dry roads
take care when overtaking vehicles spreading salt or other de-icer,
particularly if you are riding a motorcycle or cycle
watch out for snowploughs which may throw out snow on either
side. Do not overtake them unless the lane you intend to use has
been cleared
be prepared for the road conditions to change over relatively short
distances.
listen to travel bulletins and take note of variable message signs that
may provide information about weather, road and traffic conditions
ahead.
231) Drive extremely carefully when the roads are icy. Avoid sudden actions
as these could cause loss of control. You should
drive at a slow speed in as high a gear as possible; accelerate and
brake very gently
drive particularly slowly on bends where loss of control is more
likely. Brake progressively on the straight before you reach a bend.
Having slowed down, steer smoothly round the bend, avoiding
sudden actions
check your grip on the road surface when there is snow or ice by
choosing a safe place to brake gently. If the steering feels
unresponsive this may indicate ice and your vehicle losing
its grip on the road. When travelling on ice, tyres make
virtually no noise
      Windy weather
232) High-sided vehicles are most affected by windy weather, but strong
gusts can also blow a car, cyclist, motorcyclist or horse rider off course.
This can happen on open stretches of road exposed to strong
crosswinds, or when passing bridges or gaps in hedges.
233) In very windy weather your vehicle may be affected by turbulence
created by large vehicles. Motorcyclists are particularly affected, so
keep well back from them when they are overtaking a high-sided vehicle.

Visit:  Highway code road signs
      Fog
234) Before entering fog check your mirrors then slow down. If the word ‘Fog’
is shown on a roadside signal but the road is clear, be prepared for a
bank of fog or drifting patchy fog ahead. Even if it seems to be clearing,
you can suddenly find yourself in thick fog.
235) When driving in fog you should
use your lights as required (see Rule 226)
keep a safe distance behind the vehicle in front. Rear lights can give
a false sense of security
be able to pull up within the distance you can see clearly. This is
particularly important on motorways and dual carriageways, as
vehicles are travelling faster
use your windscreen wipers and demisters
beware of other drivers not using headlights
not accelerate to get away from a vehicle which is too close behind
you
check your mirrors before you slow down. Then use your brakes so
that your brake lights warn drivers behind you that you are slowing
down
stop in the correct position at a junction with limited visibility and
listen for traffic. When you are sure it is safe to emerge, do so
positively and do not hesitate in a position that puts you directly
in the path of approaching vehicles.
236) You MUST NOT use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously
reduced (see Rule 226) as they dazzle other road users and can obscure
your brake lights. You MUST switch them off when visibility improves.
Law RVLR regs 25 & 27
237 Hot weather . Keep your vehicle well ventilated to avoid drowsiness. Be
aware that the road surface may become soft or if it rains after a dry spell
it may become slippery. These conditions could affect your steering and
braking. If you are dazzled by bright sunlight, slow down and if
necessary, stop.

Related posts :

The Highway Code Introduction
The Highway Code - Rules for pedestrians
The Highway Code - Rules for users of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters
The Highway Code - Rules about animals

Thursday, March 31, 2011

The Highway Code - Road users requiring extra care (Other vehicles)

219)
Emergency and Incident Support vehicles. You should look and listen 
for ambulances, fire engines, police, doctors or other emergency 
vehicles using flashing blue, red or green lights and sirens or 
flashing headlights, or Highways Agency Traffic Officer and Incident 
Support vehicles using flashing amber lights. When one approaches 
do not panic. Consider the route of such a vehicle and take appropriate 
action to let it pass, while complying with all traffic signs. If necessary, 
pull to the side of the road and stop, but try to avoid stopping before 
the brow of a hill, a bend or narrow section of road. Do not endanger 
yourself, other road users or pedestrians and avoid mounting the kerb. 
Do not brake harshly on approach to a junction or roundabout, as 
a following vehicle may not have the same view as you.

220)
Powered vehicles used by disabled people. These small vehicles travel 
at a maximum speed of 8 mph (12 km/h). On a dual carriageway 
where the speed limit exceeds 50 mph (80 km/h) they MUST have 
a flashing amber beacon, but on other roads you may not have that 
advance warning (see Rules 36-46 inclusive).  
Law RVLR reg 17(1) & 26 

More information visit: http://www.theory-test.co.uk 
 
221)
Large vehicles. These may need extra road space to turn or to deal with a hazard that you are not able to see. If you are following a large vehicle, such as a bus or articulated lorry, be aware that the driver may not be able to see you in the mirrors. Be prepared to stop and wait if it needs room or time to turn.
Highway Code - Seat belts and child restraints
222)
Large vehicles can block your view. Your ability to see and to plan 
ahead will be improved if you pull back to increase your separation 
distance. Be patient, as larger vehicles are subject to lower speed 
limits than cars and motorcycles. Many large vehicles may be fitted 
with speed limiting devices which will restrict speed to 56 mph 
(90 km/h) even on a motorway.

223) Buses, coaches and trams . Give priority to these vehicles when you
can do so safely, especially when they signal to pull away from stops.
Look out for people getting off a bus or tram and crossing the road.

Visit: http://www.theory-test.co.uk/asp/product_list.asp

224) Electric vehicles. Be careful of electric vehicles such as milk floats and
trams. Trams move quickly but silently and cannot steer to avoid you.

225) Vehicles with flashing amber beacons. These warn of a slow-moving or
stationary vehicle (such as a Traffic Officer vehicle, salt spreader, snow
plough or recovery vehicle) or abnormal loads, so approach with caution.
On unrestricted dual carriageways, motor vehicles first used on or after
1 January 1947 with a maximum speed of 25 mph (40 km/h) or less
(such as tractors) MUST use a flashing amber beacon
(also see Rule 220). Law RVLR 1989, reg 17

Related posts :

The Highway Code Introduction
The Highway Code - Rules for pedestrians
The Highway Code - Rules for users of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters
The Highway Code - Rules about animals
The Highway Code - Rules for cyclists
The Highway Code - Rules for Motorcyclists
The Highway Code - Rules for drivers and motorcyclists

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

The Highway Code - Road users requiring extra care (Other road users)

214)
Animals: When passing animals, drive slowly. Give them plenty of room and be ready to stop. Do not scare animals by sounding your horn, revving your engine or accelerating rapidly once you have passed them. Look out for animals being led, driven or ridden on the road and take extra care. Keep your speed down at bends and on narrow country roads. If a road is blocked by a herd of animals, stop and switch off your engine until they have left the road. Watch out for animals on unfenced roads.

Visit: http://www.theory-test.co.uk/asp/product_list.asp
215)
Horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles: Be particularly careful of horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles especially when overtaking. Always pass wide and slowly. Horse riders are often children, so take extra care and remember riders may ride in double file when escorting a young or inexperienced horse or rider. Look out for horse riders’ and horse drivers’ signals and heed a request to slow down or stop. Take great care and treat all horses as a potential hazard; they can be unpredictable, despite the efforts of their rider/driver.
216) Older drivers: Their reactions may be slower than other drivers. Make allowance for this.
217) Learners and inexperienced drivers: They may not be so skilful at anticipating and responding to events. Be particularly patient with learner drivers and young drivers. Drivers who have recently passed their test may display a ‘New driver' plate or sticker (see ‘Safety code for new drivers').

Visit: http://www.theory-test.co.uk
 218)
Home Zones and Quiet Lanes: These are places where people could be using the whole of the road for a range of activities such as children playing or for a community event. You should drive slowly and carefully and be prepared to stop to allow people extra time to make space for you to pass them in safety.

Related posts :

The Highway Code Introduction
The Highway Code - Rules for pedestrians
The Highway Code - Rules for users of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters
The Highway Code - Rules about animals
The Highway Code - Rules for cyclists
The Highway Code - Rules for Motorcyclists
The Highway Code - Rules for drivers and motorcyclists