Have You Done Your Hazard Perception Test?

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Hazard Perception Test

Hazard perception is the ability to detect hazards on the road, which is a vital skill that requires time to learn. You can become a safer driver once you learn to pinpoint and respond to hazards on the road. 

Therefore, the Hazard Perception Test (HPT) is a crucial requirement for moving on to a P1 provisional license from a learner’s permit. Here is all you need to know about this exam.

Hazard Perception Test – The Basics

This is a computer-based test that centers on situations where probationary drivers are likely to crash. The exam evaluates your ability to spot and respond to hazards in the best way possible.

HPT can be taken by beginner drivers, drivers who wish to graduate to a probationary license, and drivers who require a full license. To be eligible for the test, you must possess a car learner’s permit and be at least 17 years and 11 months old. 

There are two kinds of HPTs you need to know about:

  • Car hazard perception 
  • Motorcycle hazard perception 

Car Hazard Perception Test

All beginner drivers must clear the hazard perception test to have their license upgraded. You can take the hazard perception test if you have possessed a learner’s license for a minimum of six months.

On the other hand, if you have a P1 license, you are required to pass the hazard perception test to be eligible for a P2 or open license. In this case, you must possess a P1 license for at least a year.

Upon successfully passing the hazard perception test, you will automatically have your P1 license upgraded to a P2 license. A brand new P2 license will be delivered to your address, along with your digital photograph.

However, your license will not get upgraded if:

  • Your current license has expired within six weeks starting from the day you make the test payment.
  • You do not have a digital photo taken or a digitized signature recorded within the past nine years.

Motorcycle Hazard Perception Test

All holders of the learner motorcycle license have to pass the hazard perception test to move on from their learner’s permit. You are allowed to take the test at any point while your learner license is valid. 

To take the test, you will have to pay a fee. After the payment, you will have access to the test for 12 months. 

The motorcycle hazard perception test takes around 15-20 minutes. Make sure you have an active connection to the internet while you are attempting the test. At present, no offline version of this test is available and there are no exemptions from taking the exam.

Final Thoughts

Once you have signed up for a hazard perception test, you will be presented with a set of instructions to complete it. Before starting the actual test, you can attempt a practice test as many times as you like. Make sure you complete the hazard perception test in a single sitting as there is no way to save your progress. 

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