Motorcycle Hazard Perception and Theory Tests

theory test classroom

Before taking your practical tests, you will have to take and pass the motorcycle theory and motorcycle hazard perception tests. You can take your theory test before your CBT but most people wait until after.

The theory test will gauge your knowledge and understanding of riding theory. A sound knowledge of the theory is essential to a better understanding of practical riding skills.

All provisional driving licence-holders will have to pass the theory test before a booking for a practical test will be accepted.

You do not need to take a theory test before taking your CBT. Although a basic understanding of the highway code is expected

Theory test sessions are available weekdays, evenings and on Saturdays.

Only book your test via the governments official booking service – it is free, unofficial booking websites will charge you a fee.

A test appointment will normally be available for you within about two weeks. Find your nearest test centre.

When you attend your theory test you’ll have to show photographic evidence of your identity as well as your driving licence. The only acceptable documents for this purpose are:

  • Photocard driving licence
  • Old-style paper driving licence and current signed passport

The test will cost £23


The Motorcycle Theory Test

The 57 minute test, taken under exam conditions, consists of multiple choice questions.

Most questions ask you to identify the correct answer from a choice of four or five possible options.

There will also be some multiple response questions that will ask you to select several answers from five or more options.

Some questions will contain pictures of road signs or road situations.

To pass the test you will need to answer at least 43 out of 50 questions correctly.

You will take the test using a computer screen.

You will select your answers by simply touching the area of the screen that shows the answer of your choice.

No previous computer experience is required.

You will have up to 15 minutes to get used to the system before starting your test.

There will be staff available to help if required.

The screens are easy to read and only one question will appear on the screen at the time.

You will be able to move forwards or backwards through the questions at any time to look at the questions again to complete or to alter your answer.

The new system will inform you if you have not completed your answer fully.

At the end of the test your answers will be calculated and you will be given your test result.

If you fail on your first attempt, don’t worry – about 50% of candidates fail their first theory test. There is no limit on the number of times the theory test can be taken, however you must wait 3 days before taking a failed test again.

The DVSA now provide a FREE motorbike theory test so you can practice under test conditions before doing the real thing.

For information on the procedure for the Theory Test watch the DVSA video How to Pass the Theory Test.

1. You intend to turn right from a main road into a side road, just before turning you should:

Mark one answer.

A. Stop and apply the hand brake
C. Cancel your right turn signal

B. Check for traffic overtaking on your right
D. Position yourself to the left

2. The national speed limit for cars and motorcycles on a dual carriageway is:

Mark one answer.

A.  70 mph
C.  60 mph

B.  50 mph
D. 30 mph

3. When may a learner rider carry a pillion passenger?

Mark one answer.

A.  If the rider has a full car licence
C.  If the passenger holds a full motorcycle licence

B.  If the passenger is over 21
D. Never


4. When MUST you use dipped headlights in the daytime?

Mark two answers.

A.  When travelling over 50 mph
C.  In heavy rain

B.  When there is a light mist
D.  In thick fog

5. When you intend to travel for a long period at a high speed you should normally:

Mark one answer

A.  Increase tyre pressure
Reduce tyre pressure

B.  Increase only rear tyre pressure
D.  Keep tyre pressure normal

6. The legal minimum depth of tread for motorcycle tyres is:

Mark one answer

A.  1 mm
C.  1.6 mm

B.  1.5 mm
D.  2 mm

7. A motorcycle is not allowed on a motorway if it has an engine size smaller than…

Mark one answer

A.  50cc
C.  250cc

B.  125cc
D.  500cc

8. The braking distance at 50 mph is:

Mark one answer

A.  15 metres
C.  38 metres

B.  21 metres
D.  53 metres

9. You accelerate in heavy rain and your rear wheel skids. What must you do to regain control?

Mark one answer

A.   Apply the brakes
C.   Ease off the throttle

B.  Change down to a lower gear
D.  Change up to a higher gear


The Motorcycle Hazard Perception Test

image of foggy roadThe DVSA have now extended the Theory Test by adding a Motorcycle Hazard Perception Test. It’s taken at the same time as the Theory Test and takes about an extra 15 minutes.

More experienced riders and drivers scan the road better and recognise much earlier the clues that show a hazardous situation is developing.

Hazard perception is the ability of a rider or driver to make an early identification of situations where some form of avoidance action might be necessary, such as changing speed or direction. It involves techniques such as:

  • scanning
  • selecting a safe separation distance
  • using an appropriate speed
  • planning well ahead
  • having good anticipation


During the test candidates are shown 14 moving video clips filmed from the motorcyclist’s point of view. Each clip contains one or more developing hazards.

The candidate will be asked to indicate as soon as they see a hazard developing which may result in the motorcyclist taking some action, such as changing speed or direction. The sooner a response is made the higher the score.

The pass mark is 44 out of a possible 75.




If you’d like to practice the Theory and Hazard Perception Tests in the comfort of your own home then take a look at:

The Complete Motorcycle Theory and Hazard Perception Tests 2015 Edition

by Focus Multimedia [Focus Multimedia]
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  • The latest DVSA revision questions for motorcyclists
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  • high definition mock hazard perception test
  • the official highway code

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