Sitting a theory exam in Gibraltar

Once you feel ready, you can book the theory test. You must pass it before taking the practical driving test and getting your full driving licence. The experience can feel a little intimidating, especially if it is your first visit, but knowing what to expect can make it much less stressful.

Theory tests in Gibraltar are computer-based and take place at Bleak House.

Arriving for your test

Tests start at the time shown on your booking. Arrive 10–15 minutes early so you have enough time to check in and get settled. If you arrive late, you may not be allowed to sit the test.

The test takes place in a room on the first floor with other candidates and an invigilator. You will be allocated a desk with a touchscreen computer. Before the test begins, the invigilator will explain how the computer and test work.

Pass mark

The test contains 50 questions. You must answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass, which is a score of 80%.

Duration

You have 45 minutes to complete the test. This should give you enough time to answer every question and review your answers. Focus on your own test and use the time available; there is no benefit in finishing first.

Practice test at the test centre

Before starting the official test, you can use a short practice test to familiarise yourself with the computer. It uses sample questions and does not count towards your score.

Spend a few minutes learning how the controls work, then make sure you start the official test. Answers submitted in the practice section do not count towards your result.

Test interface

The computer uses a touchscreen, with no mouse or keyboard attached. Select the answers and controls directly on the screen.

The invigilator will explain this, but it is worth repeating: do not select the submit button until you are ready to finish. Once you submit the test, you cannot return to change your answers.

Questions

The drive.gi practice tests are designed to help you prepare for the topics and question style you will encounter. The questions in the official test are selected for each candidate, so concentrate on your own screen.

You cannot take notes, cheat sheets or any other study material into the test. Your mobile phone must be switched off and put away. Follow the invigilator's instructions to avoid being disqualified.

The test interface is similar to the drive.gi practice tests: each question has one or more answer options, and controls let you move to the next or previous question. You can leave a question unanswered and return to it later. If a question requires more than one answer, the computer will make this clear and will continue to mark it as unanswered until you select all the required options.

A simple test strategy

Answer the questions you feel confident about first and leave any uncertain ones for later. Another question may jog your memory, and moving on ensures you do not run out of time before reaching the end.

Then return to every unanswered question and work through them one at a time. An unanswered question cannot earn a mark, so answer all 50 questions to the best of your knowledge.

Once every question has an answer, review the whole test. Check for questions you may have misread or answers you selected by mistake, but do not change an answer without a good reason simply because you are second-guessing yourself.

When you are satisfied, check once more that no questions are unanswered and select the submit button. The computer will allow you to submit even if you have missed a question, so make this final check carefully.

Getting your result

The test is scored immediately after you submit it, and you will receive a printout showing your result.

If you pass, congratulations—you can move on to preparing for and booking your practical driving test.

If you do not pass, do not despair. Review the topics you found difficult and keep practising until you can pass full mock tests consistently. This will build both your knowledge and your confidence for the next attempt.

If you have not yet booked your test, apply through the Gibraltar eGov website.