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If you’re looking to become a professional HGV driver, you’ll need to complete a hazard perception test as part of earning your licence. This helps prepare learners for the real-life dangers of being out on the open road as an HGV driver, so you’re fully equipped to tackle any situation your environment and other vehicles may throw at you.
So if you’re wondering what’s involved in the hazard perception test for HGVs, here’s everything you need to know.
And if you want to know more, feel free to get in touch with HGV Training Network – we’d be happy to answer any questions you have about the hazard perception test or other HGV-related enquiries.
What is the HGV hazard perception test?
The hazard perception test is part of your overall HGV theory test, which also includes a section of multiple choice questions and a CPC qualification case study – all of which the HGV Training Network can assist you with.
The hazard perception element of your theory test is designed to analyse your hazard perception skills. Specifically, your ability to detect and react to a hazard developing in front of you, to ensure you’re able to properly react to potential hazards in a real-life situation while you’re out on the road driving HGVs.
How to pass the HGV hazard perception test
Much like the hazard perception test included in your standard driving test, during your hazard perception test you will be seated in front of a computer screen and shown several clips (18 at the time of writing) that all include developing hazards you would expect to run into while driving. Your job is to spot the developing hazards as soon as they appear and click your mouse as quickly as possible – the quicker you click, the higher your reaction time and the better your hazard perception test score will be. Passing the theory test is a crucial part of completing your HGV training. Doing so first time will ensure you’re quickly on the roads!
Each hazard perception test clip will have at least one actual hazard – none of the clips are trying to trip you up – so if you reach the end of a clip without clicking, you’ve missed the hazard and lost your score for that clip.
While it may sound daunting, you only need a score of 67 out of 100 to pass your hazard perception test (at the time of writing), so there’s plenty of opportunity to not be as quick off the mark as you’d like. As long as you spot the hazards and respond within an appropriate amount of time, you’ll pass.
Is the HGV hazard perception test similar to a car hazard perception test?
The HGV hazard perception test is virtually identical to the standard car hazard perception test. Both tests require users to click when they spot something that may develop into a hazard, or a hazard unfolding during the video. If you have taken a standard car hazard perception test previously and are familiar with the process, you should feel very comfortable during your HGV hazard perception test.
How long is the HGV hazard perception test?
The time you have to spend on your HGV hazard perception test will be split between this test and your HGV theory test – with both being completed in the same session. In total, you will be allocated 2 hours to complete this examination, with 75 minutes to use on your multiple-choice questions and the remaining 45 minutes on your HGV hazard perception test.
However, if you’re concerned about a medical condition that may make it difficult to complete your HGV hazard perception test and multiple choice test in the allotted time, speak to your examiner. They may be able to offer you more time.
What is the HGV hazard perception segment?
If you’re considering a professional HGV driving career, you’ll need to undertake a theory test during the process.
This assessment evaluates your knowledge of the road and includes an interactive hazard perception test – but what does it involve, and how long do you have to complete it?
*Did You Know? HGV Training Network has over 200 5-star reviews from satisfied HGV learners on Google? All of whom passed their hazard perception test with flying colours! Click here to read some of our amazing reviews!
When is the best time to click during the HGV hazard perception test?
If you’re unsure or nervous, don’t click. This is something seen often when people are unsettled or uneasy with the hazard perception test, people will click anywhere and hope for the best that one of them has to be right – whereas, in reality, you’ll just end up with a weaker score as the computer will assume you don’t know and you are just guessing. Try to compose yourself and click smart.
Awareness and understanding of developing hazards are essential. There are two types of hazard – a standard hazard and a developing hazard. As part of your theory test, you will be asked to spot and identify both.
You may be unsure what qualifies as a developing hazard – but the DVLA defines a developing hazard as ‘something which would cause you to take action, like changing speed or direction.’ A good example of this would be a car parked on the side of the road that isn’t moving – as your driving would be unaffected by it, there is no hazard. However if the car’s right-hand indicator began to flash, and the car began to move away it becomes a developing hazard as you will have to take action in response and click as soon as you see the indicator flashing. A standard hazard, on the other hand, is something that is immediately classed as a hazard as soon as it comes into your eyeline, rather than gradually becoming one.
*Want to speak to someone about your hazard perception test? Get in touch with our helpful team today!
How many clicks do you get on an HGV hazard perception test?
Technically, there is no limit on how many times you can click during your HGV hazard perception test. However, clicking repeatedly or clicking in a specific pattern in the belief this will help you pass is not a good strategy. Too many clicks will indicate that you can’t actually detect a developing or live hazard, meaning you’re not ready to take your practical test. In the same breath, clicking constantly will show you’re not taking your test seriously, and the examiner may choose to speak with you about this. You should only click when you see something you believe will develop into a hazard or a hazard in action.
What counts as a hazard in the hazard perception test?
A car that’s parked on the side of the road is just one example of something that could turn into a potential hazard. Other hazards you will spot on the test include:
- Vehicles suddenly appearing from junctions or side streets
- Vehicles randomly crossing into your lane of traffic
- Stray objects, people or animals on the road
- Broken down vehicles
- Cyclists and horse riders
- Troublesome weather conditions
- Uneven road surfaces
- Narrow roads and more.
There are a lot of hazards to take in on the hazard perception test clips and it can be difficult to know what counts as a hazard and whether or not you should click. If you’re ever second-guessing yourself, remember this tip – if you feel you would need to apply your brakes or check your mirrors, you should click.
Can you take a mock HGV hazard perception test?
If you want some in-depth HGV hazard perception test practice, you’re able to take mock tests before your actual test to make sure your reaction times are on point, giving yourself the best chance of passing the first time.
Like with all things, practice does make perfect – especially with tests like this. HGVTN will provide all of the practice hazard perception tests you need to ensure that you are fully confident and comfortable at identifying the various hazards you could be presented with.
But if you’d like to begin your studies well ahead of time, you could take a mock hazard perception test online – there are plenty to choose from. Depending on the practice test you choose, these could include real camera footage clips or hazard perception CGI clips – either way, they’re a useful resource.
What’s included in the HGV hazard perception test?
After answering your multiple-choice questions, the hazard perception will start. The instructions outlining how to use the software will appear beforehand, such as clicking your mouse when you first spot a hazard. It will also warn you that repeatedly clicking will lead you to fail the test.
Then, the test will start – you’ll be shown 19 video clips to respond to, each lasting 60 seconds. The format is standard across all the videos, with various hazards shown from the driver’s perspective. 18 of the clips contain one hazard while 1/19 contains two, meaning you’ll need to keep alert throughout.
Examples of the hazards you can expect include:
• Pedestrians suddenly crossing without looking
• Vehicles pulling out onto the main road suddenly
• Hazardous driving conditions, such as icy roads
• Cyclists who don’t indicate
• Emergency vehicles
• HGVs and tractors obstructing your view ahead
The more mock hazard perception tests you complete in the run-up to your test, the better. Being well-practised ensures you will be more confident at identifying hazards, will be familiar with the test formatting, and means you will know what to expect when you take your real test – helping you feel more relaxed and less stressed.
How long is the HGV hazard perception test?
You’ll have two hours to complete the theory test: one hour and 15 minutes are dedicated to the multiple-choice section, whilst 45 minutes are allocated to the hazard perception.
Get in touch with the HGV Training Network today
Eager to embark on a new and exciting life on the road? If so, our experts can help you to gain your HGV licence.
At HGV Training Network, we’ll provide you with all the materials you need to pass your test confidently, including free DVLA online theory test software, bringing you closer to driving HGVs professionally.
Get in touch with HGV Training Network today if you’re ready to book a place on one of our bespoke driving courses or to speak with a driving specialist about what you need to do next.
Call HGV Training Network today on 0800 254 5007 if you’re ready to book, or browse one of our 50 UK locations to find one that suits you.
