Theory Test - Part 1
The Test itself is straightforward and not difficult as long as you have completed some study prior to the test. You can obtain a book from WH Smith or we have a number of CD Roms available for loan if you have a home computer.
The Test is computerised, touch screen, with multiple choice questions. You have 40 minutes in which to complete 35 questions. You must have a minimum of 30 correct to pass. You are given the result and your pass certificate at the end of the Test.
When you have passed the Theory Test, you can then, in conjunction with your instructor, book your Practical Ridden Test. The central number is the same, 0870 0101372, then dial * * 7 9...this will fast track you to the Motorcycle Test booking section. You ask for a Motorcycle Test, either 125cc or 500cc, for Test Centre Northwich Northern. You will again need your Driving License, your Theory Test Pass Certificate, and a Credit or Debit card. Your instructor will have given you the date to book, and this will tie in with your training dates to ensure that you are ready for your test at just the right time.
The New Theory Test Part 2 - October 2002
The HAZARD PERCEPTION TEST will form the second element of a two part Theory Test, and will be taken immediately after the 35 multiple choice questions.
The HP element will begin with a tutorial video, which will explain how to complete the test. The tutorial may be repeated twice. Candidates will wear headphones to listen to the voice over.
The test itself will consist of a number of clips, each lasting an average of one minute. Each test will contain 15 score-able hazards or test items and the clips are filmed with a camera mounted on top of a car, on real roads. Each clip will contain one or more developing hazards of various types, vehicles, pedestrians, road conditions etc. Candidates will be asked to respond, by pressing a mouse button, as soon as they recognise that a hazard is developing, which may result in the driver having to take some action, such as change of speed or direction. The earlier that a developing hazard is perceived and a response is made the higher the score. Each individual clip will start in pause mode, to enable the candidate to familiarise themselves, with the environment of the clip, e.g., rural road, single carriageway, dual carriageway, motorway etc. The clip will start to play automatically after 10 seconds.
Every response made by the candidate will be acknowledged by the display of a red flag on the bottom of the screen. The computer will collect the candidate's responses and compare them with the marking window for the clip. If the response is within the window, a score between 1 and 5 will be awarded. We do not know at this stage, what the pass mark will be, but we will be advised nearer the time.
Care will need to be taken when responding to the clips. The computer will recognise unrealistic keying action and invalidate the test, to stop candidates just continually pressing the mouse.
The candidate will receive a result and score for both elements of the new Driving Theory Test immediately after the test. Both elements have to be passed at the same time. Failing one element means a total fail and both elements will have to be retaken.
Trial video clips and practise facilities will be available in our shop, and we will be able to give you help to pass.
If you require further advice or information, please ask your instructor who will be pleased to help you.
For further information contact Steve at Cheshire Motorcycle Training. Tel 01606 49084, Fax 01606 45705,
Email: info@cheshiremotorcycletraining.co.uk
