Driving in snow, fog and heavy rain - take a sneak peek of the new CGI videos to be included in DVSA's theory test
NEW clips have been added to the hazard perception test for learner drivers taking their theory exam.
The CGI (computer-generated imagery) videos all include various weather conditions across 23 different scenarios.
Hazards will develop on and near the road during snow, ice, sleet, rain, fog and high-wind weather, further to low-light level risks at dawn and dusk.
Test takers for those hoping to gain a standard car driving licence adopted the new format on November 1, the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) told Sun Motors.
However, motorcycle theory tests will include the new CGI clips starting from next month.
Lorry, bus and coach driving licence hopefuls will adopt the hazard test from early 2019, as will driving instructors of both cars and motorbikes.
The clips previewed are, of course, not included in the real test, but demonstrate snow, rain and night/dark conditions.
A deer runs across the road in the snowy clip, while the car in front of the test taker is forced to brake hard in the rain due to a motorbike changing into the same lane.
The night/dark clip shows a lorry driver swerving and also forcing the car in front of the test taker to suddenly brake.
The hazard perception test itself will remain unchanged, in terms of scoring and pass marks.
Fourteen clips will be shown in total during a test, with up to five points awarded for each scenario.
Test takers have to click on the point they see a developing hazard - you don't lose points for an incorrect answer, but you won't score for clicking continuously or in a pattern.
There is only one attempt at each clip, with a pass mark of 44 out of the 75 available.
The other half of the theory test is multiple choice questions, where you have to score 43 out of 50.
You need to pass both parts in order to gain a pass certificate, and it is only valid for two years in which you have to pass a practical test to receive a full driving licence.
Jesse Norman, Road Safety Minister, said: "The UK has some of the safest roads in the world, but we’re always looking for ways to make them safer.
"These new hazard perception clips offer more realistic driving conditions to test a learner driver’s ability, preparing them for overcoming the real-life challenges they will face on the road – something that should benefit all road users."
Mark Winn, DVSA Chief Driving Examiner, added: "The DVSA's priority is to help everyone through a lifetime of safe driving.
"Every year too many people are injured on our roads by hazards frequently encountered by drivers and we are determined to do more.
"We know the theory test helps saves lives, so we are using CGI clips to further improve road safety."
