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:

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

DVSA theory test confirmation

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.

24 thoughts on “Theory Test Languages”

  1. Manal cheikh mous

    I have theroy test tomorrow but my English is very law can I have my own interpretation or more extra timepleas

  2. Hello Manal. A voiceover in different languages is not longer permitted on the theory test. You’ll need to take it in English and within the same time constraints as other candidates.

  3. Suely santos

    Can i do the theory test IN Portuguese ??

  4. Anka

    Hi can I do my test in Bulgarian?

  5. Hi Anka,
    The languages available to take the theory test in are only English, Welsh or British sign language.

  6. Mrs S Mazhar

    Hi
    Can I do in urdu or Punjabi language???

  7. Hi Mrs S Mazhar,
    No, currently it’s English, Welsh or British sign language only.

  8. Orhan

    Can my wife do theory test Lithuina language?

  9. Orhan

    What about voice language?

  10. marsela

    hello i want to make theory in albanian please answer me i speak english very well but the problem is i don’t understand the questions please help me

  11. Iakovos Verdis

    How can I help so there will be a translation in Greek as well? I am greek, based in London.

    Awaiting for your kindly reply,
    Kind regards,
    Iakovos

  12. Nads

    What proof for would I need for dyslexia?

  13. Hello Nads,
    Suitable forms of proof of dyslexia can be:

    • A letter from your school or college stating what special needs provision was made when taking exams
    • Letter from your GP detailing the medical condition and special needs requirements. This should be on headed paper
    • A report from the on-line screening test Spot Your Potential is also suitable form of proof.
  14. Tony

    Hi! Like to ask you about Hungarian voiceover? Can I take my theory test? Hungarian language? Please answer me!

  15. oleg

    Can i do theory test polish language?

  16. Karolina

    Can I come to Ireland while living in Scotland and pass my theory test?

  17. Hi Karolina,
    If you intend on booking your theory test via the DVSA, then provided it’s Northern Ireland, then yes. You can book your theory test or practical driving test at any of the UK test centres.

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