Theory Test Languages

Whilst booking a theory test, you were previously able to select the option of a voiceover to take the theory test in a different language other than English or Welsh.

The theory test had 21 languages available to be taken and is ideal if English is not your primary language or if you have difficulty understanding written English.

End to foreign language tests

From 7 April 2014. the DVSA ended the ability to choose from 21 language voiceovers or to have an interpreter on the theory test.

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:

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

How does the voiceover work

Whilst taking the theory test, you will hear a voiceover through headphones of the language you have chosen when you booked the theory test. You are able to hear the questions and possible answers as many times as you wish and the questions are read out to you automatically.

Languages currently supported in the theory test

Driving theory test candidates will no longer be able to use foreign language voiceovers and interpreters during their theory test from 7 April 2014. This is to ensure that all new drivers will fully understand the United Kingdom traffic information and emergency updates allowing for safer travel. This also aids in reducing the amount of fraud.

Languages previously supported by the theory test

The 21 languages that were previously available for voiceover on the driving theory test were:

• Albanian
• Arabic
• Bengali
• Cantonese
• Dari
• English
• Farsi
• Gujarati
• Hindi
• Kashmiri
• Kurdish
• Mirpuri
• Polish
• Portuguese
• Punjabi
• Pushto
• Spanish
• Tamil
• Turkish
• Urdu
• Welsh

Theory test translators / Interpreters

Foreign language interpreter / translators are no longer permitted in the driving theory test. Candidates with dyslexia or other reading difficulties will still be able to take their theory test with an English or Welsh language voiceover

Dyslexia or other reading difficulties

If you have dyslexia or other reading difficulties, the theory test is available in English or Welsh voiceover. You can also ask to have more time to do the multiple-choice part of the theory test. If you do need more time, you must send proof of your reading difficulty to the theory test booking customer services. The learning to drive section provides all DVSA booking information, including the various methods to book a theory test.