The Hazard Perception Test is a key part of the UK theory test. It measures how well you can spot developing hazards – events or situations that could require you to slow down, steer away, or stop. In this guide, I explain how it works, give tips from my experience as an ADI, and help you maximise your performance.
🎬 What Is the Hazard Perception Test?
- You’ll be shown 14 video clips showing everyday road scenes. Each clip has at least one developing hazard. One clip will include two hazards.
- Before those, you’ll see a short video to teach you how to use the test interface. (Watch it carefully—it helps.)
- A developing hazard is something that starts harmless but evolves into something you must respond to—such as a parked car indicating and then pulling out.
📊 How Scoring Works
- You get up to 5 points per developing hazard, depending on how quickly you spot it: the earlier = the more points.
- You do not lose points for clicking places that aren’t hazards—but clicking repeatedly or in patterns won’t help you.
- Each clip is shown only once, so you must be alert. There’s no pausing or replaying.
🧠 Instructor Insights & Tips from My Experience
- Practice regularly using realistic mock videos—often what feels slow in real life is faster in the clips.
- When watching, try to anticipate what might happen (a car parked at the side → might move, a pedestrian near a kerb → might step out).
- Pause practice clips (when permitted) to think what you would do if in the car—this trains your mind for quicker hazard recognition.
- Don’t be discouraged by “missed” hazards—use them as learning tools. Go back to see what signs you missed or misread.
⚠️ Common Mistakes Learners Make
| Mistake | Why It Hurts Your Score | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|
| Waiting too long to click | One clip may have two, but don’t assume every moment has a hazard | Try to click as soon as you see the first sign of development (indicator, movement) |
| Over-clicking in non-hazard zones | Wastes attention / slows you down in later clips | Stay focused; only click when you genuinely see something that could become hazardous |
| Getting distracted | Missing early cues like road signs, pedestrians at edges | Practice in quieter environments; remove distractions (phone, noise) |
| Expecting hazards in every scene | One clip may have two, but don’t assume every moment has hazard | Stay alert but balanced—don’t force yourself to click when there’s nothing real |
🛠️ Checklist: Before Taking the Hazard Perception Test
- Watch the “how it works” video carefully
- Practice with at least 10-20 mock clips in advance
- Use headphones / good sound if needed (audio clues can help)
- Make sure you’re in a quiet, comfortable space to focus
- Review any errors and learn what the early signs of hazards looked like
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I pause or rewatch the video clips?
A: No. Each clip is shown only once, and responses (clicks) must be made live.
Q: How many hazards are there usually?
A: Each clip has at least one developing hazard. One or more clips may have two.
Q: What happens if I click too early?
A: Early clicks may not be awarded full points because the hazard may not have developed yet. The scoring rewards speed and accuracy.
📚 Attribution & Official Guidance
Some information on this page is adapted from official DVSA / GOV.UK sources. FQ Driving Academy is not affiliated with DVSA. For the official guidelines, see:
GOV.UK – Theory Test: Hazard Perception
