This part of the theory test requires you to view 14 hazard video clips on a computer screen of approximately one minute each.hazard-perception You are required to watch these clips as if you were the driver. There will be 15 hazards to find – at least one on each clip. However, one clip will have 2 hazards.

The hazard clips will not contain any sound.

You click either the left or right mouse button whenever you think you can see a hazard developing. The speed at which you click the mouse button as a hazard develops will determine your score for that particular hazard clip. You can score between 0 and 5 on each hazard.

Therefore the maximum you can score is 75 (i.e. 15 hazards x 5). To pass you need a score of 44.

The examination process

The hazard perception part of the theory test will start with a short video tutorial played on the computer screen that will explain how the hazard perception test works and what you are required to do. At the end of this clip, you have the option to go onto the test or play the tutorial again.

Each hazard clip will start with a freeze-frame of the start of the video sequence and a count down from 10 will commence. At the end of the countdown, the clip will start to play and you will be required to click the mouse button each time you see a developing hazard.

To let you know that the program has registered your click a red flag will appear on a grey band across the bottom of the screen – one flag for each click you make in any particular clip. At the end of the clip, all the flags will be removed before you start the next clip.

Although each clip contains several potential hazards only the one that materialises into a real hazard and involves other road users is marked. This is known as a “developing hazard”. Therefore you will only receive a score if you spot a hazard before it fully materialises and is brought about by the action of another road user. You will know if the hazard materialises because the driver will have to take evasive action (e.g. slow down, stop or swerve out of the way).

How to score

The score you obtain will be dependent upon how quickly you spot the developing hazard. The time from when the developing hazard could be potentially seen on the screen to when the vehicle arrives at the hazard is the time frame or window used to determine your score.

The maximum score that can be obtained for the hazard perception part of the theory test is 75 (i.e. 15×5). To pass the hazard perception part of the car theory test you must obtain a score of 44. To pass the theory test you must pass both parts. If you fail either part you are required to take both parts of the test again.

From Monday 12 January 2015, new computer-generated imagery (CGI) clips will replace old filmed clips in the hazard perception part of the theory test.

These new clips will still show everyday road scenes but with better, clearer image quality.

The way that the hazard perception part of the theory test works won’t be changing. The pass mark will stay the same.

Watch this video to see an example of a CGI clip and to find out how the test works.