Since November 2002 every learner driver has had to pass a hazard perception test, consisting of fourteen one-minute clips filmed from the perspective of a car driver. 

All of the clips include one developing hazard, and one includes two of these hazards. The sooner you react to a developing hazard, the more points are scored, from five down to one, with no score if you react too late.

The current clips were created by filming developing hazards in a number of different scenarios, using a specially adapted cars and cameras. The Driving Standards Agency are now looking at improving these by using new computer generated images, giving the DSA the ability to add in clips that would normally be too hard to film safely.

The DSA intend to introduce the new hazard perception test videos by the end of 2013, bringing the entire theory test up to date after also changing the theory test questions in January 2012.  

By Alan Whittingham