The changes are happening this April and have been designed to help people with dyslexia and other learning challenges.
At Dyslexia Care Foundation we are always eager to bring you all of the latest news which is relevant to the lives of people living with Dyslexia.
We have recently heard about some imminent changes which are being made to UK driving tests. The UK Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has announced that it will be overhauling the theory section of the car driving test from 14th April this year.
Driving theory tests will be changing from April 2020
The objective is to make the testing system fairer and to ensure that people who experience learning challenges can access the test and experience the many benefits that being able to drive offers.
What is the current driving test?
The current UK Driving Test can be taken at the age of 17 and includes a practical driving test, as well as a multiple choice theory test and a hazard perception test.
A UK driving test can be taken from the age of 17
Video will replace the written case study
The theory test currently includes a written case study which has 5 questions. From April this year, the case study element is changing and there will be a video clip instead, with 3 questions rather than 5. This means that there will now be two video elements as the hazard perception section is also in video format.
People taking the test will be able to watch the clip as many times as they like. The change to the test has come about following consultation with a number of organisations including the British Dyslexia Association. The use of video is more accessible for people who have problems reading or accessing information, and this includes people who experience dyslexia.
Is the pass mark still the same?
No changes have been made to the mark that is required to pass. Learner drivers will still need to get 43 out of 50 in order to be successful.
When are the changes happening?
The changes are coming in from 14th April 2020. The currently only apply to car theory tests but this may change over time to include other vehicles.
You can see the announcement from the DVSA here.
Changes to the theory test are intended to make it more accessible
Other reasonable adjustments for your driving test
If you are dyslexic and you believe that you could experience issues with accessing any part of the theory element of your driving test, then you can request further adjustments to help you.
Adjustments that can be made include being able to listen to an audio version of the test questions, having an extended amount of time to complete the test or being able to bring someone along to support you.
You can find out more about possible adjustments and how to apply for them on the Gov.UK website.
What about the practical test?
If you feel that your Dyslexia or another issue will mean that you face particular problems with the practical driving test, you can also request reasonable adjustments to that element.
The changes are happening in April
More information on adjustments and how to apply for them can be found here.
Need more information?
If you need any more information about Dyslexia – or help and advice, please get in touch with us.
We look forward to hearing from you!