UK Theory Test Stopping Distances
Stopping distances are guaranteed to come up in your theory test. Here's everything you need to know.
The Formula
Total stopping distance = Thinking distance + Braking distance
- Thinking distance = how far you travel while reacting (before your foot even hits the brake)
- Braking distance = how far you travel once braking
The Numbers You Must Know
| Speed | Thinking | Braking | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 mph | 6m | 6m | 12m |
| 30 mph | 9m | 14m | 23m |
| 40 mph | 12m | 24m | 36m |
| 50 mph | 15m | 38m | 53m |
| 60 mph | 18m | 55m | 73m |
| 70 mph | 21m | 75m | 96m |
The Easiest Memory Trick
Thinking distances increase by 3m for every 10 mph: 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21.
At 70 mph, remember: "Nearly a football pitch." (96m = around 100m.)
In Bad Weather
- Wet roads: Braking distance at least doubles
- Icy roads: Braking distance up to 10 times longer
So at 70 mph on ice, your total stopping distance could exceed 900 metres.
How This Comes Up in the Test
Common question styles:
- "What is the total stopping distance at 70 mph in good conditions?" → 96 metres
- "How much longer to stop in wet conditions compared to dry?" → At least twice as long
- "You're travelling at 60 mph. What is your thinking distance?" → 18 metres
The Trick to Getting These Right
Don't try to memorise every number individually. Learn the pattern:
- Thinking distance in metres = speed in mph ÷ 10 × 3
- For braking, learn the total distances: 12, 23, 36, 53, 73, 96
Practice these with flashcards until they're automatic. Theory Ready's flashcard system includes all stopping distance cards built in.