Driving Theory Tests Are Changing Later This Month

As part of a longtime effort to modernise the test, hopeful drivers will now be shown 30-second video clips depicting different driving scenarios, such as driving along a country road or around busy town centre.

Would-be drivers will then be given three questions about each clip.

This will replace the usual written questions which have been a staple part of the theory test for years.

The new test - which comes into play from 28th September 2020 - is part of Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency's (DVSA) efforts to make the test more fair for those with reading difficulties and disabilities.

They did note however that the hazard perception part of the test would remain multiple choice.

DVSA Chief Driving Examiner, Mark Winn, said the changes have been a long time in the making and aim to make the roads more accessible for all drivers.

"DVSA's priority is to help everyone through a lifetime of safe driving," he commented.

"Being able to drive can be life-changing and the DVSA is committed to helping everyone access the opportunities driving can offer.

"We have worked closely with road safety experts and learners to create a theory test which fully tests a candidate's knowledge of the rules of the road and is more accessible."

The driving association worked closely with the National Autistic Society, British Deaf Association and the British Dyslexia Association as part of the process to change the test.

John Rogers from the Disability Driving Instructors, said the new video portion now makes the test far more fair for learners with varying abilities and needs.

"A picture paints a thousand words, especially for candidates with special educational needs," he says.

"Having to go back and forth between the text in the written scenario and the written questions and answers was a big obstacle to understanding what was required.

"Video scenarios should prove much easier to follow and the questions will hopefully appear more relevant."