Theory test changes: April 2020

3^rd March 2020

From 14th April 2020, the car theory test will be changing, replacing the part of the exam that asks you to read and answer 5 questions on a case study, with 3 multiple-choice questions based on a short video clip.

The changes have come as a result of the work the DVSA have been doing with the British Deaf Association, National Autism Society and National Dyslexia Association, with the goal to make the theory test more accessible for everyone.

What will the video look like?

The video clip will show a real road situation, like driving through a town centre, or on a country road. You can watch the clip as many times as you need during this part of the test.

Here's an example of the type of clip you could be shown:

What kind of questions will I have to answer?

For each of the 3 questions, they'll be 4 multiple-choice answers to choose from.

Here's an example set of questions you could be asked:

1. Why are motorcyclists considered vulnerable road users?
2. Why should the driver, on the side road, look out for motorcyclists at junctions?
3. In this clip, who can cross the chevrons to overtake other vehicles, when it’s safe to do so?

Don't worry: you're not required to write essay answers, just choose one answer from the list you'll be shown.

What else is changing in the theory test?

There's no other changes to the theory test for the time being. The hazard perception part of the test is not changing - where you'll be asked to watch video clips to spot developing hazards.

As a reminder, you’ll still need to:

• Spot developing hazards in 14 video clips
• Answer 50 multiple-choice questions within 57 minutes

The hazard perception pass mark is 44 out of 75. You can score up to 5 points for each developing hazard.

For the multiple-choice part of the test you'll need to get 43 out of 50 questions right to pass.

You can still use the same theory apps, books and online exams to prepare for your theory test.

Check out ingenie's Learning to drive guide for help with your revision.

If you have a reading difficulty, disability or health condition

Your test centre can arrange for you to have additional support during the test if you need this due to a reading difficulty, disability or health condition. This may include extra time to take the test, or for someone to read what’s on the screen and record your answers for you. You can also ask for the questions to be restructured in a way that's easier for you to understand.

Just make sure you request any extra support you need for the test when you book it.