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Driving Tests & Theory

What happens if I fail one part of the theory test in Northern Ireland?

You fail the whole theory test and must retake both the multiple-choice and hazard-perception parts.

The car and motorcycle theory test has two parts: multiple choice and hazard perception. DVA requires you to pass both in the same sitting.

If you pass one part but fail the other, the overall result is a fail and both parts must be retaken.

There is no carry-over of the part you passed: a later attempt starts again with both the multiple-choice and hazard-perception elements.

Northern Ireland theory tests, practical driving tests and candidate requirements are administered by the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA), so current DVA/nidirect guidance should be used for bookings, documents, fees and test-day rules.

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Sources checked for this answer

We use official and primary sources wherever possible rather than relying on generic AI-generated information.

Information checked: 25 September 2026
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