Consultation outcome

Driving test language support

• From: Driving Standards Agency and The Rt Hon Norman Baker
• Published: 5 February 2013
• Last updated: 10 October 2013 — See all updates

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

PDF, 183 KB, 15 pages

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Impact assessment

Ref: DfT00188

PDF, 138 KB, 28 pages

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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

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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
5 February 2013 to 11:45pm on 2 April 2013

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

PDF, 158 KB, 13 pages

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Impact assessment

PDF, 135 KB, 28 pages

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Published 5 February 2013
Last updated 10 October 2013 + show all updates

1. 10 October 2013

   Published the response to consultation report.

2. 5 February 2013

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

3. 5 February 2013

   First published.