​Motorcycle Theory and Hazard Perception Tests

If you’re on this page it’s probably because you’re thinking of starting your motorcycling career and progressing towards a full motorcycle licence. Whether it’s just to commute to work in style or to go on a motorcycle world tour, you’ve come to the right place. It can be daunting when you first start looking into what you need to do. So we’ve broken down the motorcycle theory and hazard perception test for you so you can understand what’s expected and how to prepare!

Please note, the theory and hazard perception tests are only required if you are progressing to any full licence past Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). If you are just planning to ride a scooter up to 125cc on L plates and not carry passengers, you don't worry about the below. Give our guide to motorcycle licences a read if you aren't sure. 

What Is the Motorcycle Theory & Hazard Perception Test?

Before you’re able to progress past your CBT to gain a higher A1, A2 or unrestricted A-licence training, you’ll need to pass the motorcycle theory test. This is essentially a test that assesses your road safety, Highway Code and ability to react to possible hazards. 

People sometimes call the written part of the test the ‘theory test’ but actually the motorcycle theory is the umbrella term for the test itself, which is made up of two parts- the multiple-choice questions and the hazard perception. Here’s how they work:

The Theory Test: This is a multiple-choice quiz covering the Highway Code, road safety, and riding-specific knowledge. You’ll answer 50 questions, and you need at least 43 correct to pass.

The Hazard Perception Test: This is a video-based test where you’ll watch 14 video clips showing everyday road situations. You’ll need to spot developing hazards (like a car pulling out or a pedestrian crossing) by clicking as soon as you see them.

How the Theory Test & Hazard Perception Work Together

The motorcycle theory test and hazard perception test are taken together as part of the same assessment. You’ll first sit the multiple-choice section, then once that’s finished, move onto the hazard perception test. You do get up to a 3 minute break in between if you opt for it, which we suggest you do!

You need to pass both parts to move on to the practical riding tests. If you fail one section, you’ll need to retake the entire test, so it’s worth preparing properly.

Do You Need to Take a Motorcycle Theory Test?

According to the government’s official page, you don’t need to take a motorcycle theory test before you book a driving or motorcycle test if it’s:

• To upgrade a car licence, for example, from automatic to manual, or to tow a trailer
• To upgrade a motorcycle licence you’ve had for at least 2 years, for example, from category A1 (small motorcycle) to category A2 (medium motorcycle)
• To upgrade a lorry or bus licence, for example, from category C1 (medium) to category C (large), or to tow a trailer

Unless this is the case, you will have to take and pass the motorcycle theory and motorcycle hazard perception tests before you can take your practical tests, known as Module 1 and Module 2. You will only be able to book your practical tests once this has been completed.

 

How Do You Book a Theory & Hazard Perception Test?

The best place to start when booking is here. 

The government website has a section dedicated to getting you going with booking your motorbike theory and hazard perception test. They also have a useful tool for finding local test centres in your area and don’t charge a premium for this service.

How Much Does It Cost?

Luckily you won’t have to negotiate with any dodgy wheeler dealers over the phone for this. There’s set prices for each type of motorcycle test. Below is a list of the costs for every test you can book through the government:

How Do the Multiple Choice & Hazard Perception Tests Work?

The test takes place on a computer and you will be using a touch screen or mouse. 

Motorcycle Theory Multiple-Choice Test

You will be given the opportunity to do some practice questions if you need some time to get used to the way it works.

A question will appear on the screen with several possible answers. You have to select the right answer out of the possible choices.

Some questions are given as a case study to add context. The Gov.uk website states that the case study will:

• Show a short story that 5 questions will be based on
• Be about a real life situation you could come across when driving 

Here is an example of something you’re likely to see in the test:

Q: You are riding in wet weather. You see diesel fuel on the road. What should you do?

1. Swerve to avoid the area
2. Brake sharply to stop
3. Accelerate through quickly
4. Slow down in good time

A: Slow down in good time.

A lot of the questions will be common sense; drinking alcohol doesn’t improve your reflexes, driving blindfolded is not a good idea, adding heat seeking missiles to your motorcycle is frowned upon etc.. 

Motorcycle Theory Multiple-Choice Test: Pass Mark

The pass mark for this test is 43 out of 50. (You will be given this result at the test centre)

This will lead straight onto the hazard perception test. (You’re allowed a short 3 minute break in between the two tests).

Hazard Perception Test

This section of the test will only take 15 minutes and involves watching videos and spotting hazards as soon as they develop (just like for the driving test, but specifically designed and therefore different for motorcycles). 

You will have to watch 14 clips and click as soon as you see a hazard developing. You will be scored depending on how quickly and accurately you spot the developing hazard. The system is simpler than it sounds, here’s a video by the DVSA explaining how the process works:

Hazard Perception Test: Scoring

You can score a maximum of 5 points for each developing hazard.

To hit 5 points, click as soon as you see the hazard developing. 

It’s worth noting during the test, you can’t lose points if you click and get it wrong. However, you won’t score if you click continuously or in a repetitive pattern.

You also only get one attempt at each clip which shows. Once you’ve seen it run, that’s your lot. You can’t go back and change your clicks.

Read here for our tips on how to pass your motorcycle hazard perception test.

Hazard Perception Test: Pass Mark

To pass you need to score 44 out of 75. 

Total Motorcycle Theory & Hazard Perception Test Scoring

You need to pass both the theory and hazard perception to pass the test in full.

If You Pass

You’ll get a letter with a pass certificate number at the test centre. Don’t lose this number! You’ll need it when you get round to booking your motorcycle practical tests.

This pass certificate number will last 2 years. So once you have it, you have 2 years to pass both modules of the motorcycle test. If you don’t, you’ll have to take the theory test again.

If You Fail

So this is obviously the worst-case scenario. You’ll still get a letter at the test centre but it won’t be as good news. But fear not! It does tell you which parts you didn’t score enough points on so you can go away and practice for your next motorcycle theory.

There’s also no limit to how many attempts you can make so it doesn’t matter. The only rule is that you have to wait at least 3 working days before taking your test again.

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