The Hazard Perception test is the second part of the UK theory test. The Hazard Perception test assesses how well a learner driver is able to spot and react to a hazardous situation on the road. Being able to detect a potential hazard early enough is an important skill that all drivers should have. Good hazard perception helps to prevent road accidents and also saves lives.
What is a developing hazard?
A developing hazard is something that would cause a driver to take action, like changing speed or direction.
What to expect on your Hazard Perception Test
You are going to be shown fourteen hazard test video clips, each lasting a minute. Thirteen clips will contain one developing hazard but one clip will contain two developing hazards. You need to tap the touch screen or click the mouse (depending on the test centre) as soon as you see the developing hazard. A hazard could be poor road conditions or animals wandering onto the road. You will only get one chance with each question. In order to get full marks, you need to click the mouse as soon as the hazard emerges. You can score between 0 and 5 on each hazard. The maximum score you can get is 75 and you need a score of 44 to pass. Your score is determined by the speed of which you spot a hazard.
How the Hazard Perception Test will work
The test will start with a short video tutorial played on a computer screen. The tutorial will explain how the hazard perception test works and what you will need to do. You will have the option to watch the tutorial again or proceed to the test.
Every hazard clip will begin with a freeze frame at the start of the video sequence and a countdown from 10 will commence. At the end of the countdown, the clip will start to play and you will need to click each time you spot a developing hazard.
So you know that the program has registered your click, a red flag will appear on the bottom of the screen. There will be a red flag across a grey brand for each click you make in any particular clip. At the end of the clip, all the flags will be removed before you start onto the next clip.
How you will be scored
You can score up to 5 points for each developing hazard. In order to get a high score, you need to click the mouse as soon as you see the hazard starting to develop. You won’t lose points if you get any wrong but you won’t score anything if you click repeatedly or in a pattern.
Hints and tips
Be calm and remember that no points are lost for getting a question wrong.
Don’t wait too long to click as you’re being tested on speed.
Subscribe to our Get Licensed Driving School which will be full of hints and tips to help you pass your driving test. Also, visit the New Driver Programme website which has plenty of resources for learner drivers.
