Understanding the highway code test
The Épreuve Théorique Générale (ETG) comprises 40 multiple-choice questions. You need at least 35 correct answers to pass. Questions cover traffic rules, road signs, road safety, first aid and basic vehicle mechanics.
10 tips to pass first time
1. Revise every day, even just 15 minutes
Consistency is more effective than long intensive sessions. 15 to 20 minutes of daily revision leads to far better long-term retention.
2. Use an officially approved app
Several apps offer question series similar to the real exam, with detailed explanations for each answer. Prioritise apps approved by the ANTS.
3. Understand, don't just memorise
Try to understand the logic behind each rule rather than learning it by heart. A rule you understand is much less likely to be forgotten on exam day.
4. Master right-of-way rules
Questions on priority (priority to the right, roundabouts, flashing lights) account for a significant share of mistakes. Dedicate extra time to these.
5. Learn all road signs
Some less common signs appear frequently in exams. Revise the entire signage system, including directional and temporary signs.
6. Do timed mock tests
Simulate the exam by timing yourself on 40 questions in 20 minutes, without any help. Aim to score 38-40/40 to feel comfortable on the real day.
7. Revise stopping distances and speed limits
Questions on braking distances, speed limits according to weather and signage are unavoidable in the exam.
8. Don't neglect first aid
The test always includes questions on first aid (recovery position, calling for help, etc.). These questions are often easy if you have prepared for them.
9. Sleep well the night before
Avoid revising late into the night before the exam. Fatigue is one of the most damaging factors for concentration and can cause you to doubt answers you know perfectly well.
10. Arrive early and stay calm
Arrive at the exam centre 15 to 20 minutes before the scheduled time. Anxiety can lead to careless errors. Read each question twice before answering.
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Frequently asked
Your questions on this topic
How to pass the theory exam on first attempt?
National pass rate is 75 percent in 2025. To maximise your chances: follow a thematic method (10 official themes) rather than random series, reach 35/40 on 5 consecutive sessions before registering, revise 30 minutes a day for 4 to 6 weeks. The rule: don't take the exam before consistently scoring 90 percent in practice.
How many mistakes are allowed in the theory exam?
5 mistakes maximum out of 40 questions in 2025, meaning a 35 correct answer threshold. Each question is worth 1 point and offers 2 to 4 possible answers (sometimes multiple). Time is 20 seconds per question. A single missed answer on a multiple-choice question counts as a mistake. The 6th error means immediate failure with a new session.
What are the hardest theory exam themes?
The 3 themes failing most: "First aid" (37 percent errors), "Mechanics and equipment" (32 percent) and "Traffic and environment conditions" (28 percent). Conversely, "Signs" and "Crossing and overtaking" are better mastered. Target revisions on weak themes rather than reviewing everything uniformly to gain 4 to 6 points on average.
How long to revise for the theory exam?
Count 30 to 50 hours of revision spread over 4 to 8 weeks for a regular student. A daily 30 to 45-minute session is more effective than 4 hours on weekends. Aim for 200 to 300 questions in total, with systematic correction of errors. The rule of 5 consecutive sessions at 90 percent in practice avoids 80 percent of failures.
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