Changes to the new car theory test

New Theory Test Changes

New theory test changes are now going to see the ‘case study’ part of the multiple-choice section, replaced with a video. These new changes to the theory test will take place from September 28, 2020.

The case study required the theory test candidate to read a scenario and after reading, you’ll be asked five multiple-choice questions related to the story you’ve just read. This is being replaced by a video clip that can last up to 30 seconds.

After watching the video clip, you’ll be asked three multiple-choice questions related to the clip. You can watch the video clip as many times as you wish before attempting to answer the questions.

The video clip and questions will have a similar concept the previous case study, in that the video will display a scenario, followed by questions asking what you as a driver should do in that situation.

New Theory Test Changes Example Video

This DVSA video clip lasts for around 20 seconds and is an example of what you can expect on the new theory test.

Example Questions About the Video Clip

After watching the video, you’ll be asked three multiple-choice questions. Select which answer you think is correct. During the theory test, you can watch the video as many times as you wish. An example of the questions are as follows:

Why are motorcyclists considered vulnerable road users?
HintPedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists are referred to as vulnerable road users because of their unprotected state. Car drivers are protected by the vehicle shell and other safety features such as airbags.
Why should the driver, on the side road, look out for motorcyclists at junctions?
HintBecause of their smaller size, cyclists and motorcyclists are more difficult to see. They can easily be hidden from your view by cars parked near a junction or your windscreen pillar. It can also be difficult to judge a motorcyclists speed as they can often be traveling faster than they appear.
In this video, who can cross the chevrons to overtake other vehicles, when it’s safe to do so?
HintWhite chevrons or white diagonal stripes in the centre of the road are often used to separate traffic lanes or to protect traffic turning right. There are 2 types: 1. The area is bordered by a solid white line. In this instance, you MUST not enter the area except in an emergency. 2. The area is bordered by a broken white line. In this instance you can enter the area only if it is necessary and if it is safe to do so.

Why is the Theory Test Changing?

After conducting research, the DVSA have concluded that the new theory test changes will make it more accessible to:

  • Individuals with reading difficulty such as dyslexia
  • Individuals with a learning disability
  • Individuals with a developmental condition such as autism

Parts of the Theory Test Remaining the Same

Other than the video clip and three multiple-choice questions replacing the case study, everything else will remain the same. You’ll still be required to:

  • Answer a total of 50 multiple-choice questions within 57 minutes
  • Score a total of 43 out of the 50 questions correctly to pass the multiple-choice part of the test
  • Take the hazard perception test, which remains the same

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