Get the right support for your Theory Test
If you have a reading difficulty, disability, or health condition, you can ask DVSA for support when taking your car Theory Test. This includes extra time, a reader/recorder, reworded questions, BSL support, and more.
We’ve broken down exactly what’s available and how to apply.
Basic support for everyone
You can use these options without sending medical evidence:
- Headphones – to hear each question through a voiceover
- BSL on screen – a video translation in British Sign Language
Both are available for all learners when booking your test online as usual.
Note:
- The voiceover changes accent and gender between questions, which some find to be distracting.
- The BSL video uses a standard version of sign language, which may differ from your local inflections.
If this causes difficulty, ask DVSA for a live BSL interpreter or Reader/Recorder instead.
Support available with evidence
With written evidence, DVSA can offer:
- Extra time
- Separate room (included with human support)
- Reader/Recorder – human being who reads questions as written and records your answers
- BSL Reader – live signer for each question
- Language Modifier – person who rewords or clarifies non-technical language
To access these, you log on to the booking system and select “Request additional support”. DVSA will then request that you email them your evidence.
Tip: Do this early, even before choosing your test date, to get approval in place.
Acceptable forms of evidence
DVSA accepts letters, emails, or reports from:
- A teacher or educational professional
- A doctor or healthcare professional
- An occupational therapist
- A dyslexia or learning assessment report (including recognised online assessments)
If you do not have a diagnosis you can still apply for support with support from the above. If you are struggling to get the support Theory Test Explained can still help you achieve success, and have for many learners before you.
Step-by-step application
- Go to gov.uk/book-theory-test.
- Enter your details as required.
- Select ‘I need additional support’.
- Choose from the options, or select ‘Other’ and provide details of your needs.
- Send DVSA an email with your your evidence. (Include your reference number).
- DVSA will confirm what’s approved and provide dates (usually 3) to book.
When you contact DVSA, give your:
- name as it appears on your driving licence
- full address
- date of birth
- driving licence number
- theory test booking reference (if you’ve booked a test or requested additional support)
DVSA Contact Details
- Email: theorycustomerservices@dvsa.gov.uk
- Telephone: 0300 200 1122 (Mon–Fri, 8am–4pm)
What to expect
- Your approved adjustments will be ready at the test centre.
- Remember to take your provisional driving licence with you.
- You’ll meet your reader, interpreter, or support staff before the test starts.
- Voiceover and BSL clips can be replayed as often as needed. Voiceover Question and/or answers can be played individually, unlike on many apps/sites.
- If agreed, you’ll sit the test in a private or quieter room. Be aware test centres vary, some have enclosed rooms, others have glass walled rooms.
If you need something different
DVSA can make other arrangements depending on your needs and evidence, such as:
- Using assistive technology
- Changing lighting or seating
- Providing coloured filters.
If you’re unsure, email DVSA before booking or contact us. Disability Driving Instructors is another excellent source of support, including practical support.
