Quiz: Are You Ready for the Hazard Perception Test?

Most people want to get the various parts of the theory test out of the way as soon as possible so that they can concentrate on getting ready for the practical driving test.

It is tempting to book your theory test as soon as you start taking driving lessons, but this is not always the best idea.

Although the hazard perception element of the theory test seems very straight-forward and obvious, going into it without having done any preliminary groundwork can leave you unprepared.

Take our quiz to see if you're ready to take your hazard perception test!

1. Which of these statements about the hazard perception test is true?

• You must press the button when you see the driver make a mistake in the clip
• You must press the button each time you see a potential hazard in the clip
• You must press the button when you see the driver make a mistake that could put other drivers or pedestrians at risk

2. Which of these could be described as a potential hazard?

• a. A child playing by the side of the road
• b. A pedestrian stepping between two parked vehicles
• c. An animal running across the road
• d. All of the above

3. Which of the following is the best example of a potential hazard that you might encounter in the hazard perception test?

• a. A vehicle parked by the side of the road
• b. A parked vehicle with its indicator flashing

4. Which of the following should you look out for on the hazard perception test?

• a. Vehicles emerging from side roads, parking spots or the pavement
• b. Vehicles that are indicating to change lanes
• c. Oncoming vehicles that are approaching on narrow roads
• d. Significant changes to the flow and/or volume of traffic on the road
• e. Weather conditions
• f. Road surfaces
• g. All of the above

Answers

• 1. Score 1 point if you answered B
• 2. Score 1 point for each of A, B and C or 2 points for D
• 3. Score 1 point for B
• 4. Score 1 point for A, B, C, D, E and F or 2 points for G

Verdict

0 points – Your answers indicate that you are not yet ready to take the hazard perception test. To prepare effectively, use DVDs and CD ROMs from the Driving Standards Agency (DSA), which you should be able to get from most fairly big bookshops. These contain clips similar to the ones that you will be tested on, so they are one of the best forms of preparation available for the hazard perception test.

1-4– Your answers suggest that you may be prepared enough to pass the hazard perception test, but this is not guaranteed. It is probably best to do some more practice using DSA DVDs and CD-ROMs to enable you to see potential examples of the type of clips you will encounter in the real test.

5 or above – Your answers suggest that you have done enough preparation to pass the hazard perception test. If you wish to do so, you can perfect your hazard perceptions skills using DVDs and CD ROMs, but your answers indicate that you would score well on the hazard perception test if you booked it now.