The HGV theory test

By the end of this topic you can

• You can describe the two parts of the HGV theory test and their pass marks.
• You can explain how long a theory pass stays valid.
• You can explain what the Driver CPC case studies test is and who needs it.
• You can plan revision that covers lorry-specific topics, not just car knowledge.
• You can apply hazard perception skills from a lorry driver's point of view.

What you need to know and understand

• You can book the theory test once you hold provisional lorry entitlement.
• The multiple-choice part has 100 questions in 1 hour 55 minutes. The pass mark is 85.
• The hazard perception part has 19 video clips with developing hazards, scored up to 5 points each. The pass mark is 67 out of 100.
• The two parts can be taken in either order or on the same day, but both must be passed within 2 years of each other.
• Your theory certificate is valid for 2 years from the date you passed the first part.
• If you fail, you must wait at least 3 clear working days before retaking.
• The Driver CPC Part 2 case studies test has 7 case studies in 1 hour 15 minutes, with a pass mark of 40 out of 50.

What the multiple-choice part covers

The questions go well beyond the car theory test. Expect topics that only matter in a big vehicle, as well as general road safety. Good revision uses the official DVSA learning materials for lorry drivers and the Highway Code.

• Drivers' hours, rest and tachograph records
• Vehicle weights and dimensions, including height and bridge strikes
• Braking systems, stopping distances and speed limiters
• Loads: securing, weight distribution and dangerous goods basics
• Blind spots, mirrors and vulnerable road users
• Motorway rules for large vehicles, breakdowns and incidents
• Driver health, tiredness and safe working

Hazard perception from a higher seat

The hazard perception clips work like the car version. You click when you see a hazard start to develop, and the earlier you respond within the scoring window, the more points you earn, up to 5 per hazard. One clip contains two hazards. The site's explainer on hazard perception scoring covers how the scoring window works.

The difference is the thinking. A lorry needs far more space and time to stop, cannot swerve easily and has bigger blind spots. Look further ahead, notice pedestrians near the kerb, cyclists who may come up the inside, and vehicles waiting to pull out that may not have judged your length or speed.

The case studies test (Driver CPC Part 2)

If you plan to drive lorries as your job, you also take the case studies test. You work through 7 short real-life scenarios on a computer and answer 5 to 10 multiple-choice questions on each. You have 1 hour 15 minutes, and you need 40 out of 50 to pass. The scenarios ask what you would do in situations such as a load shifting, a delay that affects your hours, or an emergency. Your pass letter is valid for 2 years, during which you must pass the Driver CPC practical demonstration test.

A sensible order to tackle it

1. Get your D4 medical and provisional lorry entitlement.
2. Revise lorry-specific theory, then practise hazard perception clips.
3. Book and pass both parts of the theory test within 2 years of each other.
4. If driving will be your job, book the case studies test.
5. Book your practical training while the theory certificate is still valid.

Common mistakes

• Revising only car theory. Many questions are about hours, loads and weights.
• Clicking constantly in hazard perception. Patterns of repeated clicking can score zero for a clip.
• Letting the 2-year validity run out before finishing the practical tests.
• Forgetting the case studies test if you want to drive for a living.
• Turning up without the right licence. Bring your photocard driving licence.

Test yourself: The HGV theory test

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Hazard Perception Scoring Explained