Hazard means obstacle. The Hazard Perception Test (HPT) conducted by VicRoads checks on how well one can observe the whole road scenario and respond safely. Good hazard perception means being able to identify and respond to potential hazards in the safest way possible. Hazard perception skills take a long time to develop. It comes well with a lot of practice by driving on the road.  

The HPT is a computer based test. 

It assesses how you would react to hazards such as other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and traffic on the road. Before attempting the HPT, you must understand the road rules thoroughly. Three important parts of hazard perception are to see, think, do. They are used together to develop better hazard perception skills.

Improve your Hazard Perception skills

Your hazard perception skills can be improved by keeping in mind the following steps - 

• By seeing, you are scanning the road ahead and spotting any hazards.
• By thinking, you are planning ahead of time to respond safely to any hazards. 
• By doing, you are acting in response to the hazard you see, for example slowing down before turning, creating the required space, breaking at the correct time etc.
• By maintaining a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you and also on either side.
• By following the ‘Three second Rule’.
• By driving at a safe speed depending on the traffic and other environment conditions. 
• By sharing the road safely with other road users.
• By looking for changing road conditions and road works.
• By minimising distractions like loud music, conversations, listening to radio and talking / messaging over the phone. 

Hazard Perception Test is conducted at VicRoads Testing centre.  Different scenarios are presented on the computer screen. Questions are mostly based on when you will slow down, when you will apply breaks, when you can overtake a vehicle, when is the correct time to make a turn etc. For each video, you’ll be given on-screen instructions and will need to react to hazards as if you’re driving. You respond to the events by clicking the mouse button. 

An example of the HPT is given below - 

You can either book the HPT online, by personally going to any VicRoads office or through SDS. The HPT is available in the following languages: Albanian, Arabic, Cambodian, Chinese (Mandarin), English, Macedonian, Persian, Russian, Serbian, Sinhalese, Somali, Spanish, Turkish and Vietnamese.

• Use VicRoads online booking system  (Victorian learner permit holders only)
• https://billing.vicroads.vic.gov.au/bookings/

• call VicRoads on 131171

Hazard Perception Test is simple to pass. Free training of the HPT is provided at Sharmas Driving School (SDS). We are one of the best driving schools in Melbourne West and provide easy HPT tips to pass. All our instructors are highly qualified, experienced and have a thorough understanding of the Hazard Perception Test.

SDS advises learners to brush up on the road rules before attempting the Hazard Perception test. 

Below are some practice links that will help you pass the HPT.

• https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/licences/your-ps/get-your-ps/hazard-perception-test
•  https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/licences/your-ps/get-your-ps/hazard-perception-practice-test
•  http://mylicence.sa.gov.au/hazard-perception-test/2/1
•  http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/archive/809633
•  https://youtu.be/HCu-n-XFyUw
•  http://drivesmart.vic.gov.au/

We are here to help if you have any questions about the Hazard Perception Test, or getting your driving licence or driving lessons in general. Visit the link below, send us a message online or simply call 0414 463 312.