Special Needs: Extra Time, BSL & Other Support
The DVSA offers extensive accommodations for learners with disabilities, learning difficulties or English as an additional language. None cost extra; they are part of the standard GBP23 fee.
Available Accommodations
| Adjustment | Who it is for | Evidence required |
|---|---|---|
| Extra time (up to double) | Dyslexia, dyspraxia, learning difficulties | Letter from school, GP or BDA-approved screening |
| Voiceover (English) | Reading difficulties or visual impairment | None for English voiceover |
| Voiceover (other languages) | English as additional language | None; available in 19 languages historically (now reduced) |
| On-screen BSL interpreter | Deaf and hearing-impaired candidates | None |
| Face-to-face BSL interpreter | Deaf candidates preferring in-person | None; must be requested at booking |
| Larger text / colour scheme | Visual impairments, dyslexia | None |
| Reader / scribe | Severe reading or writing impairment | Letter from GP or specialist |
| Wheelchair accessibility | Mobility-impaired candidates | Most centres are accessible; confirm at booking |
All accommodations are provided free as part of the standard GBP23 fee.
Most Common Requests
Dyslexia: extra time
Up to double time on Part 1 (so 114 minutes instead of 57). Hazard perception timing cannot be extended because clip-based scoring is fixed. Evidence: letter from school SENCO, GP, or a BDA-approved online screening report.
Deaf: BSL support
On-screen BSL interpreter is automatic when requested at booking. For face-to-face interpretation in the test room, the DVSA arranges a sign-language interpreter at no cost; book at least 6 weeks in advance to allow time.
EAL (English as additional language)
Voiceover in English is always free. Voiceovers in other languages have been progressively withdrawn since 2014; today only English and Welsh are available. You may bring an interpreter you arrange privately for some categories.
Visual impairment
Magnified text, high-contrast colour schemes and full English voiceover are available. Severe impairment may also qualify for a reader. Confirm what you need at booking so the centre can prepare the workstation.
How to Request Support
- Step 1
Mention it during booking
On gov.uk/book-theory-test there is a specific question on accommodations. Tick the relevant box. The booking system will route you to the correct application route.
- Step 2
Email evidence to the DVSA
When prompted, email any required evidence to the address shown on your confirmation. Include your provisional licence number and booking reference. PDF or photo of original is fine.
- Step 3
Allow extra lead time
BSL face-to-face interpreters and other arranged-staff accommodations need 4-6 weeks. Online support (extra time, voiceover, large text) can be arranged within 2-3 weeks.
- Step 4
Confirm before test day
The DVSA will email confirming the adjustment is in place. If anything is missing on the day, ask at reception before starting; you can refuse to begin if your accommodation has not been set up.
FAQ
FAQ 1Does extra time cost more?
No. All DVSA accommodations are included in the GBP23 fee. There is no upcharge for extra time, BSL, voiceover or large text.
FAQ 2What evidence does the DVSA accept for dyslexia?
A letter from your school's SENCO, your GP, an educational psychologist, or a screening report from the British Dyslexia Association or a BDA-approved provider. Self-diagnosis is not enough; the DVSA needs a third-party assessment.
FAQ 3Are non-English voiceovers still available?
No. Voiceovers in languages other than English and Welsh were withdrawn between 2014 and 2016. Candidates whose first language is not English must take the test in English; you can bring a privately-arranged interpreter for some categories of test.
FAQ 4Can I bring my own BSL interpreter?
You can, but the DVSA also provides an interpreter free of charge. Most candidates prefer the DVSA-arranged interpreter who is familiar with the test format.
FAQ 5Do these accommodations affect my chances of passing?
They are designed to level the playing field, not to make the test easier. The questions and pass marks are unchanged. Pass rates among candidates using accommodations are broadly comparable to the general population.