Consultation outcome

Driving test language support

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Applies to England, Scotland and Wales

This consultation has concluded

Read the full outcome

Response to consultation report

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Impact assessment

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Detail of outcome

The government is removing the option to take a driving test in any language other than English, Welsh or British sign language.

From 7 April 2014 you won’t be allowed to:

  • take a theory test with a foreign language voiceover
  • use a foreign language interpreter for your theory or practical test

Original consultation

Summary

Give your views on options for changing the amount of language support given in the theory and practical driving test.

This consultation ran from
to

Consultation description

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) wants to know your views on removing the language support given to some driving test candidates.

At the moment, learner drivers and riders can:

  • take a theory test with a voiceover in 1 of 19 languages, other than English or Welsh
  • bring an interpreter with them when they take their theory and practical driving tests

DSA wants to know your views on:

  • options for changing the current level of language support
  • how much notice should be given before making a change
  • how best to avoid an increase in unlicensed driving

Documents

Review of language support provided for driving test candidates

Request an accessible format.
If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email govuk@dvsa-publishing.zendesk.com. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Impact assessment

Request an accessible format.
If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email govuk@dvsa-publishing.zendesk.com. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Updates to this page

Published 5 February 2013
Last updated 10 October 2013 + show all updates
  1. Published the response to consultation report.

  2. Updated figures for car theory and practical driving tests taken in 2011/12 in the consultation document and impact assessment

  3. First published.

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