Motorcycle theory test explained
The motorcycle theory test consists of two parts – the multiple choice and hazard perception. If you have done your homework, you should have no problem in passing. You need to pass both parts to get your theory test certificate. Only then can you take your practical test.
The Motorcycle Theory Test
Unfortunately the motorcycle theory test is not the same as the car theory test (as it contains motorcycle specific information), so you will have to do two if you want both. Nowadays the test is done with computers and a touch screen. During the test you will have explained to you exactly what to do and when.
For the hazard perception test there are no separate tests for different vehicles, each vehicle category takes the same test, however the pass mark is different for different categories of tests.
Part one – the multiple choice
You can choose whether or not you want a practice test for the multiple choice. As I say, if you have done your homework this should not be necessary. You can buy CDs which have exactly the same (or near enough) questions as the real test, and you can do practice tests at home with this software.
You will normally have four options to choose from, but this may vary. Some questions may require more than one answer. You will be asked 50 questions with a time limit of 57 minutes. The pass mark is 43 out of 50. This may sound quite high but a lot is common sense and the rest is highway code. You can also ‘flag' questions and come back to them later.
Part two – the hazard perception
The hazard perception is done by you clicking on a mouse when you see a hazard developing. You will have 14 video clips which show various road scenes. In each clip there will be at least one hazard which develops, and one of the clips will feature two. This may change in future years.
In order to get maximum points you will have to respond to the developing hazard as soon as you notice it. You can score a maximum of 5 points per hazard. WARNING – it is rumored that some of the ‘testers' (who were test instructors) took the test to make sure it was fair and failed as they clicked too early in the development. Again, to make sure you pass as easily as possible, buy a CD as they too will practice the hazard perception. Do NOT click too many times as you will void your answer.
The pass mark for the motorcycle hazard perception part is 44 out of 75.
The end of the test
You will be given your answers as soon as you have finished. If you have passed you can book your practical test. If you have failed, try again!
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