Hazard Perception Test Tips: How to Score Higher

The hazard perception test is the part of the theory test learners worry about most, because it doesn't feel like a normal exam. Once you understand how it's scored, it becomes far more manageable.

What counts as a developing hazard?

A developing hazard is something that would make you take action, such as slowing down, changing direction or stopping. A parked car is a potential hazard. A parked car whose reverse lights come on as you approach is a developing hazard.

How scoring works

Each scoring hazard has a window that opens when it starts to develop. Clicking early in the window scores up to 5 points, and clicking later scores less. Clicking before the window opens scores nothing for that click, so a couple of well-timed clicks per hazard is a sensible approach.

Don't over-click

If you click continuously or in a regular pattern, the software can flag it and you'll score zero for that clip. Click when you notice something developing, then again as it gets closer to affecting you.

What to look out for

• Pedestrians near the kerb, especially children, or people stepping out between parked cars
• Cyclists and motorcyclists who may move out or turn
• Vehicles waiting to emerge from side roads and driveways
• Brake lights, indicators and buses pulling away from stops
• Narrowing roads, bends and approaching junctions

Practise the real way

Practise with official clips, but also do it on real journeys. As a passenger, call out hazards before the driver reacts. On lessons, your instructor will often ask "what could happen here?", which is the same skill.

Hazard awareness is just as important on the practical test. See common reasons for failing the driving test.