Learner drivers in the UK will have to pass a new computerised test that will assess their reactions to road hazards.

Drivers will be judged on their responses to simulated driving conditions via video clips, in the first test of its kind in the world.

The test - launched on Thursday - will become part of the driving theory test in November.

It will consist of 14 film clips selected at random from 200.

Within a year of passing their test, one in five drivers has an accident.

Thinking ahead

It is believed this is partly because less experienced drivers are not used to anticipating hazards in advance.

In the new test driving conditions will be simulated, using film clips of real scenes, for example a child running across the road.

Drivers will be judged according to how quickly they spot the danger and click their computer mouse.

Instructors will be given guidance on how to prepare their pupils.

The idea is that they will focus more on thinking ahead and identifying problems before they happen.

A spokesman for the Department for Transport, which has developed the test with the Driving Standards Agency, said: "If you are a good driver, you will pass this test, even though it's difficult".

The new test will bring the cost of the theory test up to �18.

This must be passed before the practical driving test is taken at a cost of �38.

Transport Secretary Alistair Darling is due to be the first person to take the test at Thursday's launch.

Andrew Howard, of the motoring organisation the AA, welcomed the measure as a "valuable test for the future of road safety".