TheoryPrac is a UK driving theory test practice site: 750+ DVSA-licensed questions with explanations, timed mock exams and 36 hazard perception clips, for car, motorcycle, LGV and ADI. Free to start. See all features
You can prepare for the UK car theory test without spending anything. Paying gets you more questions and more hazard clips, which matters most if hazard perception is your weak side. Here is exactly what is free, what is not, and how to tell when you are ready.
SHORT ANSWER
What you can get free on GOV.UK
- GOV.UK practice theory tests. Free mock tests for cars, motorcycles, lorries and buses. The questions are not the ones used in the theory test itself, but they cover the same topics.
- 3 free hazard perception clips on the same GOV.UK page. They show you how the hazard perception part works.
- The Highway Code, free to read online on GOV.UK. Many theory questions test it directly.
- Know Your Traffic Signs, the Department for Transport's sign guide, free on GOV.UK.
The DVSA's own revision apps, software and books are sold separately. Check the current price on GOV.UK before buying.
Free and paid options side by side
| Option | Cost | What you get | The catch |
|---|---|---|---|
| GOV.UK practice tests | Free | Mock multiple-choice tests | A limited set; not the questions used in the test |
| GOV.UK hazard clips | Free | 3 practice clips | Three clips is not much practice |
| Highway Code and Know Your Traffic Signs | Free | The rules and signs the test is built on | Reading only, no scoring |
| DVSA apps and kits | Paid | DVSA revision questions and clips | Check the current price on GOV.UK |
| TheoryPrac | Free tier, then from £2.99 | Free practice questions and hazard clips, no card needed. Full access adds all 750+ questions, timed 50-question mock tests and more hazard perception clips | Not affiliated with the DVSA; the full set is paid |
The cheapest plan that still works
- Read the Highway Code and Know Your Traffic Signs. Free.
- Sit the GOV.UK mock tests until you understand why every wrong answer was wrong.
- Do the 3 free GOV.UK hazard clips to learn how scoring works.
- If your mock scores sit near the pass mark, or hazard perception feels like guessing, add a paid resource for more questions and clips. Then book.
How to tell you are ready to book
Our own rule of thumb, not a DVSA rule: book when you are scoring 46 or more out of 50 on several different mock tests in a row, and comfortably above 44 on hazard practice. A small buffer covers nerves on the day.
Questions people ask
Is the GOV.UK practice test the same as the theory test itself?
No. GOV.UK says its practice questions are not used in the theory test itself, but they are based on the same topics. It is good for learning the format.
Can I pass using only free resources?
Yes, many people do. The risk is hazard perception: GOV.UK gives 3 free clips, which may not be enough practice if you find it hard.
How much does the car theory test cost?
£23, booked on GOV.UK. Changing it needs at least 3 full working days’ notice, or you pay again.
What is the pass mark?
43 out of 50 for the multiple-choice part (57 minutes) and 44 out of 75 for hazard perception. You must pass both parts at the same sitting.
Is TheoryPrac free?
Part of it is: you can practise free questions and hazard clips with no card needed. Full access is from £2.99.
- GOV.UK: Take a practice theory test
- GOV.UK: Theory test pass mark and result
- GOV.UK: Change your theory test appointment
- GOV.UK: Know Your Traffic Signs
TheoryPrac is an independent revision service and is not affiliated with the DVSA.