The examples and perspective in this article deal primarily with the United Kingdom and do not represent a worldwide view of the subject. You may improve this article, discuss the issue on the talk page, or create a new article, as appropriate. (September 2018) (Learn how and when to remove this template message)

The hazard perception test is part of the United Kingdom driving test. The test is intended to check a candidate’s ability to detect developing situations that require a motorist to take some action, such as changing speed or direction.[1]

The test was introduced in 2002[2] and updated in 2015 with computer generated clips replacing the live action videos.[3]

Test description

Screenshot of the test with new computer generated graphics

The hazard perception test is administered as part of the theory test and is taken immediately after the multiple-choice questions. Learner drivers can sit the test from the age of 17. Those on the higher rate component of Disability Living Allowance are able to take the test at 16.

For the purposes of the test, a "developing hazard" is something that requires a motorist to change speed and / or direction. This includes cars entering traffic from an adjoining road, pedestrians crossing the road, cyclists entering the motorist’s lane while manoeuvring around a stopped vehicle and a preceding car stopping suddenly.

The test consists of video clips that contain one, or for one of the clips two, hazards. The candidate watches the video clip and, using the mouse, clicks to flag an incident as they see it develop. On the clip with two incidents, the candidate must flag both.

The earlier a candidate notices a developing hazard and make a response, the higher the score. The highest score for each hazard is 5 points.

The test instructions are to respond once to each hazard and warns that multiple clicks will result in a zero score. However, if a candidate flags a hazard as she or he sees it develop but before the scoring period as defined by the test’s designers has opened, zero points will be registered. The government revealed in an FOI request that 299 out of 515 complaints received about the test during 2009-2011 related to scoring.[4]

After completing the test, the candidate receives a paper printout showing grades for both the multiple-choice questions and the hazard perception test. The candidate must pass both tests to continue to the practical test; if either part is failed, both must be taken again. The pass mark for cars is 44 of 75 across 14 video clips,[5] 57 of 75 for approved driving instructors and 67 of 100 for lorry drivers.[6]

The test is also in other countries and territories, such as Australia.[7]

Worldwide

A variant of the test is required to attain a driving license in many Australian states, including Victoria,[8] New South Wales,[9] and Western Australia.[10]

References

  1. ^ "Theory test for cars and motorcycles". Retrieved 13 October 2015.
  2. ^ "History of road safety, The Highway Code and the driving test". Retrieved 13 October 2015.
  3. ^ "Hazard perception clips get a modern makeover". 9 January 2015. Retrieved 13 October 2015.
  4. ^ https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/8772/dsa-ia0033012a.pdf[bare URL PDF]
  5. ^ Lowe, David (2021). Lowe's Transport Manager's and Operator's Handbook 2021. London, U.K.: Kogan Page. p. 187. ISBN 9781789668292.
  6. ^ "Hazard perception clips get a modern makeover". GOV.UK. 9 January 2015. Retrieved 5 July 2022.
  7. ^ "Home | Hazard Perception Tests". www.hazardperceptiontests.com.au. Retrieved 21 April 2021.
  8. ^ Hazard Perception Test
  9. ^ "Hazard Perception Test (HPT)". Roads and Maritime Services. Retrieved 13 October 2015.
  10. ^ MA. "Hazard Perception Test simulator". www.transport.wa.gov.au. Retrieved 1 November 2023.

External links

Driving in the United Kingdom
Categories