According to the official government website, the changes have been designed to make the test more accessible, especially for people with reading and learning disabilities and developmental conditions like autism.
Making the move to video
Gone are the old written case studies, instead they are to be replaced with video clips. Currently you are required to read a case study and answer 5 questions relating to it. From 14 April, you’ll watch a short video clip and answer 3 multiple choice questions.
Here’s an example of what to expect – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnMMjuaS8fQ&feature=youtu.be
Types of questions to expect:
- Why are motorcyclists considered vulnerable road users?
- Why should the driver, on the side road, look out for motorcyclists at junctions?
- In this clip, who can cross the chevrons to overtake other vehicles, when it’s safe to do so?
For each question, you’ll be given 4 possible answers to choose from.
You’ll also be able to control the video, by pausing, moving the progress bar to replay a specific section or watch the video full screen.
What’s staying the same?
You’ll still need to:
- answer 50 multiple-choice questions within 57 minutes
- get 43 out of the 50 questions right to pass the multiple-choice part of the test
The hazard perception part of the test is not changing. This is where you watch video clips to spot developing hazards.
The changes are also only happening for the car test so won’t affect motorcycles, lorry, bus or coach or approved driving instructor part 1.
Other support available
For people with disabilities and certain health conditions, you can request some adjustments to be made to the test like:
- extra time to take the test
- someone to read what’s on the screen and record your answers
- someone to reword the questions for you
Just remember to make the testing centre aware of any requests at the time of your booking.
Who do the changes affect?
- Anyone taking the test for the first time after 14 April 2020
- Anyone that has failed their test and needs to retake from 14 April
- Anyone who has had their test cancelled and reschedule from 14 April
For more information about the car theory test and some guides for revision, visit https://www.gov.uk/theory-test/revision-and-practice
