If you want to book an HGV theory test, read our guide and make sure that you know what happens on the day. This guide also applies to PCV theory tests.
Driving truck or passenger vehicles commercially requires that you obtain a CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) qualification. This involves four tests. The theory test is the first part.
In order to take a theory test for lorries or buses, you must have lived in England, Wales or Scotland for at least 185 days in the last 12 months before the day you sit your test. You need to obtain a provisional LGV driving licence before booking a test.
Part 1
You must pass your theory tests before you can take a practical driving test. Part 1 is made up of two tests:
- multiple choice questions
- hazard perception video clips
You have to book both parts separately, but you can take them on the same day.
What to Take With You
You must take your UK photo card driving licence to your test. If you have a licence from Northern Ireland, take the photo card and paper counterpart licence. Your test will be cancelled and you will lose your fee if you do not take the correct things with you.
If you have an old style paper licence you must also take a valid passport for photo ID. If you do not have a passport, you need to get a photo card licence.
You will need to show your licence or ID to the staff when you arrive at the test centre. There will also be security checks to make sure that you’re not carrying anything which could enable you to contact anyone outside of the test centre.
If you have any personal possessions, these must be placed in a secure locker or placed under your desk in a bag which will be given to you. It’s best to take nothing with you that you don’t really need.
Starting the Test
A member of staff will take you to a room where other candidates will be sat in cubicles also taking the test. You must be quiet but don’t be afraid to ask questions.
The test is fairly straightforward and all the instructions will be shown on the screen in front of you. If you wish you can choose to have a short practise session to get used to the way the test works.
Multiple Choice Questions
Once you begin the test, you will have 115 minutes to answer 100 questions. You need to score at least 85 points to pass.
We have a range of theory test books to help you prepare for your exam. You can also visit our theory test practise pages to take some mock exams and make sure that you’re ready to pass.
Hazard Perception
You may take a 3 minute break if you wish before starting the second part of the test. When you’re ready, you should put on the provided headphones to watch an explanatory video of the hazard perception element.
You will be shown 19 video clips during which you need to click the mouse when you see a ‘developing hazard’, such as a vehicle about to emerge from a junction or a pedestrian about to step off the kerb; something which would cause you as a driver to alter speed or direction.
Click at the right time to score a maximum of 5 points for each clip. Don’t just click randomly as you may be penalised for clicking too many times. One of the clips will have 2 hazards for you to identify. There is a maximum of 100 points and you need a minimum of 67 points to pass.
Test Result
You will get your test result shortly after finishing. You need to reach the minimum score in both parts to pass.
If you’re not successful you must wait at least 3 working days before you can try again. When you’ve passed both parts, your theory test certificate will be posted to you. You need this when you book your Driver CPC part 3a and part 3b driving tests. The certificate is valid for 2 years. You need to pass the Driver CPC part 3a and part 3b driving tests within 2 years, otherwise you’ll have to pass the part 1 theory test again.
Part 2
The CPC Part 2 case studies test can be booked once you have received your provisional driving licence. If you wish you can take this test before either of the Part 1 theory tests, they can be taken in any order.
In this test you will be set computer based questions on situations you’re likely to come across during your work. After reading a short story, you will have to answer between 6 to 8 multiple choice questions. You must score at least 40 out of 50 points, and you have 75 minutes to complete the test.
Test Result
You will receive the result of your test straight away. If not successful you cannot retake the test for 3 clear working days. The pass certificate is valid for 2 years and is required to apply for the Part 4 test; you will need your pass reference number when you book this.
Book a Theory Test
If you’re certain you’re ready to take a theory test, you can book in two ways:
- call the central booking line on 0300 200 11 22
- use the online booking system by clicking here (easiest)
Before booking make sure that you have your:
- UK driving licence number
- an email address
- credit or debit card for payment
Special Needs
If you have any special needs you must mention this at the time of booking. Where possible, the theory test centre may be able to make adjustments to help you overcome any difficulties you may have.