England Theory Test Study Guide
All the key facts, numbers, and rules you need to pass your England Theory Test — in one printable page.
Key Numbers to Memorise
30 mph
Default speed limit in built-up areas (street lighting)
60 mph
Default single carriageway (no street lighting)
70 mph
Maximum motorway and dual carriageway speed
20 mph
Speed limit in many residential & school zones
80 mg
BAC limit England/Wales/NI (per 100ml blood)
50 mg
BAC limit Scotland (per 100ml blood)
2 sec
Minimum safe following distance (2-second rule)
1.5 m
Safe passing distance for cyclists (recommended)
43/50
Pass mark for Theory Test multiple choice (86%)
44/75
Pass mark for Hazard Perception section
57 min
Time allowed for Theory Test multiple choice
£23
Theory Test fee (DVSA, 2024/2025)
17
Minimum age to sit the car Theory Test
Theory Test questions (pass: +)
Speed Limits at a Glance
| Road Type | Cars & Motorcycles | Cars towing | Buses/Coaches | HGVs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Built-up area (street lights) | 30 mph | 30 mph | 30 mph | 30 mph |
| Single carriageway | 60 mph | 50 mph | 50 mph | 50 mph |
| Dual carriageway | 70 mph | 60 mph | 60 mph | 60 mph |
| Motorway | 70 mph | 60 mph | 70 mph | 60 mph |
| School zone / residential | 20 mph (where signed) | |||
Documents & Eligibility
To sit the Theory Test you need:
- Valid GB or NI provisional driving licence
- Be at least 17 years old (car)
- Pay the £23 test fee when booking
- Bring your provisional licence to the test centre
Important reminders:
- Theory Test certificate is valid for 2 years
- You must pass practical test within 2 years
- You cannot retake before 3 working days after failing
- Mobile phones must be switched off in the test room
Top Tips to Pass
Read the Highway Code
Every question is based on it. Read it cover-to-cover at least once.
Practice daily
Short, regular sessions are better than cramming. Aim for 20–30 mins a day.
Review wrong answers
Don't skip past mistakes — understand why the correct answer is right.
Train hazard perception
Watch DVSA sample clips. Click early but not randomly — early clicks score more.
Target 90%+ in practice
If you score 90% consistently here, you have a strong buffer on test day.
Book when ready
Don't book too early. Book when you're scoring above the pass mark consistently.