A huge change to driving tests is being introduced at the end of September

Driving tests are set to change from the end of September, with a new UK theory test to be implemented.

People taking the test will sit a different driving theory test from Monday September 28th – the change was originally meant to happen on April 14th but was postponed due to coronavirus.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has announced they’ll be using a video clip instead of written scenarios, with the switch being brought about to help boost accessibility.

Basher Eyre / Geograph

Learners will watch a driving clip of up to 30 seconds before answering three multiple-choice questions – you’ll be able to watch the clip as many times as you want.

These clips will include a vehicle driving through the countryside or a town centre, with questions about safe overtaking or motorcyclists being considered vulnerable road users.

According to the DVSA, the change is coming as a result of research which found people with disabilities and reading difficulties felt more comfortable with video-based questions.

Mark Winn, DVSA chief driving examiner, said: “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.”

Albert Herring / Flickr

The DVSA worked alongside the British Dyslexia Association, the British Deaf Association, and the National Autistic Society to change the exam.

John Rogers, from Disability Driving Instructors, commented on the move: “A picture paints a thousand words, especially for candidates with special educational needs.

“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.”

As it stands, learners have to read a case study then answer 5 multiple-choice questions, as well as take a hazard perception exam – you must pass both sections of the theory test before you can take the practical test.

For more info head over to the government site here.