From the 14th of April, learner drivers will have to pass a new type of theory test in order to get their license.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency say the new test will come into effect across all four UK nations, and will be fairer for those with learning difficulties.

At present, learners must answer 50 multiple-choice questions in under 57 minutes, then pass a hazard perception test.

Included is a case study which must be read by the test sitter, who must then answer five rules-of-the-road questions.

However, from April this will be replaced with a short, silent video, which will be followed by three multiple-choice questions.

There will be no limit on how many times the video can be watched.

DVSA chief driving examiner Mark Winn said:

"We have worked closely with road safety experts and learners to create a theory test which fully tests a candidate's knowledge of the rules of the road and is more accessible."

A DVLA report found that those with learning difficulties are more comfortable with scenarios depicted by video - rather than by written word.

The multiple choice questions will feature four possible answers.

 

Examples of video clip questions

 

  • What do double yellow lines mean?
  • Why are motorcyclists considered vulnerable road users?
  • In this video clip, who can cross the chevrons to overtake other vehicles, when it’s safe to do so?

 

What's the pass mark?

The passmark is unchanged. A minimum of 43 correct answers out of 50 are required to pass.

 

What about the hazard perception test?

The hazard perception test, where you watch a video clip and spot potential hazards, will not be changing.