These days, there are three different sections to the DVLA theory test; multiple-choice questions, video case study and hazard perception, and often, it is the hazard perception part of the test that people feel most nervous about. This section involves watching 14 different video clips, all of which feature at least 1 potentially dangerous situation, and you will need to click the mouse when you see the hazards starting to develop.
Whilst it sounds fairly straightforward, you do need to score a minimum of 44 points out of a potential 75 points in order to pass this part of the test and you only get one attempt at each video clip. Thankfully, if you’re concerned about the hazard perception part of the test, there are some things that you can do to ensure that it doesn’t catch you out on the day. So, to help any learner drivers, below are some useful hazard perception test tips.
Ensure you know what ‘hazards’ are
Of course, in order to pass the hazard perception part of the theory test, you need to know what a hazard actually is. Simply put, a hazard is usually something that will force you to change direction, slow down or stop whilst you’re driving.
From approaching emergency vehicles and children playing to sudden braking and cyclists on the road, there are so many different types of hazards that you will come across not only in real-life whilst driving, but during this part of the theory test too. So, make sure you’re familiarising yourself with what actually constitutes a hazard.
Complete multiple mock tests
One of the best pieces of advice for hazard perception is; practice makes perfect. The more you get used to clicking when you see a developing hazard, the easier you will find it to spot things as they’re first starting to develop during your tests and the more points you will get.
There are lots of different types of software you can use when you’re wanting to get used to the hazard perception part of the test and completing a few mock tests will help you to feel more confident. Knowing what to expect is a big part of the problem with this particular section and it can’t be stressed enough how beneficial it is to practice, practice, practice.
Keep your eyes peeled during your driving lessons
You shouldn’t only be identifying developing hazards when you’re watching hazard perception test videos, you should be doing it in real life too. In fact, the more vigilant you are during your driving lessons, the easier you will find this part of the test.
Try to get into the habit of studying not only the road, but also everything that is going on around the vehicle whenever you’re in the front seat of a car. Even if you’re not actually driving, you can still learn from sitting in the passenger seat and if anything, this is a better time for you to focus on developing hazards as you won’t need to be concentrating on driving at the same time.
Don’t go looking for danger
It can be so easy to get carried away during the hazard perception test and lots of people end up clicking a lot more than they should do. This can result in you not scoring any points and it is important to ensure that you’re not frantically searching for any potential danger.
This part of the driving theory test is designed to see how well you can distinguish between hazards and day-to-day acts. When you’re taking mock tests, try to only click when you see a potentially dangerous situation developing rather than when you see things that aren’t actually likely to cause a hazard at this moment in time. This is a good habit to get into.
Getting ready for the hazard perception part of your theory test
When you’re preparing for your theory driving test, in particular the hazard perception section, the tips above should come in handy. Even though lots of people worry about passing the hazard perception part of the test, when you put some time and effort into focusing solely on this section, you can ensure that you feel just as confident about identifying potential hazards as you are answering multiple choice questions.
If you’re looking for some assistance with this particular part of the test, make sure you take a look at the BSL Theory Test website today. Unlike lots of other software you come across for theory test revision, we provide learner drivers with the opportunity to practice the hazard perception part of the test time and time again. We boast a 100% pass guarantee too and in the event that you don’t pass the first time, you can use our software again for free. Take a look around our website today to find out more.