End to foreign language driving Theory and Practical tests

Friday, 11th October, 2013

The DSA has announced that from 7th April 2014, Driving test candidates will no longer be able to use foreign language voiceovers and interpreters on their test.

This will mean that no one will be able to take their car and motorcycle theory tests with a voiceover in 1 of 19 foreign languages or use interpreters on theory tests and practical tests

Patrick McLoughlin, Secretary of State for Transport, said:
" We want to make sure that all drivers have the right skills to use our roads safely and responsibly. One area where we can help ensure this is by requiring all test candidates to take the test in English or Welsh, the national languages."

" This will help to ensure that all new drivers will be able to understand traffic updates or emergency information when they pass their test. It will also help us to reduce the risk of fraud by stopping interpreters from indicating the correct answers to theory test questions."

Candidates with special needs

Candidates with dyslexia or other reading difficulties will still be able to take their theory test with an English or Welsh language voiceover.

Candidates who are deaf or have hearing difficulties will still be able to:

• take their theory test in British sign language (BSL)
• take a BSL interpreter with them on their practical test

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