Best theory test apps ~ station of gear

Which of three smartphone driving theory test apps is best for learning how to pass?

2015-08-03 12:08

Whether you’re learning how to drive or you’re an old hand behind the wheel, it doesn’t hurt to refresh your memory and take note of any changes to the driving theory test to keep you and other drivers as safe as possible - and these theory test apps make it easy to learn on the go.

• Driving theory test: all you need to know

We took the three of the top apps and compared them on graphical style, ease of use, price and the features they offered, such as hazard perception, progress analysis and help and instructions.

Focus Multimedia’s Driving Test Success pipped the Official DVSA app at the post, as it's a slightly better learning tool with stronger visual aids. The AA’s attempt wasn’t as comprehensive as the other two, but then it is a lot cheaper.

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Winner: Driving Test Success

Focus Multimedia, from £1.99

Focus Multimedia has developed this package of apps in such a way that will indeed offer you Driving Test Success. The clear presentation and simple interface not only gives you plenty of choice in the way you learn (by paying more than the basic £1.99 software), but also verifies your understanding more regularly than the other two. The black text on a white background was easiest to read, although none of the apps allowed you to change the size of the text, which was frustrating.

The graphical analysis was clearer and the hazard perception section, which is included in the £4.99 package, was more helpful in pointing out the hazards in the video replay. That package also includes the Highway Code. The pick’n’mix approach with the series of apps also offers learners more flexibility around their revision.

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Recommended: Official DVSA Theory Test Kit

Abel Learning, £4.99 (£7.99 with Highway Code)

The official DVSA app has a great deal of information packed into a neat, clear interface. Users can choose how they learn and if you upgrade to include the Highway Code, you can link off to the appropriate regulations as and when you need to.

Hazard perception is included in the £4.99 price and emulates the real test. The wording is inconsistent though, sometimes assuming good language understanding and at other times, almost patronising the reader. It’s disappointing that the Youtube icon links out to the DVSA’s promo videos instead of further explanations or case studies, which are helpfully included in the practice questions.

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Basic option: The AA Theory Test

£2.29, The Stationary Office

The AA app is the cheapest here, but is still well developed. It runs you through the questions or a mock test, but there’s no Hazard Perception element and the black and yellow brand colours don’t make for the best legibility.

There are lots of plugs for the brand’s other services too, but the simple approach works well and it covers all the topics, but it is more of a revision aid or refresher than a complete package.

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