Theory test in other languages, with a voiceover or in British Sign Language

You can only take the UK theory test in English, Welsh or British Sign Language (BSL). There is no test in other spoken languages, but you can ask for a voiceover through headphones in English or Welsh.

Can you take the theory test in another language?

gov.uk says you can only take the theory test in English, Welsh or British Sign Language (gov.uk: revision and practice). It does not list any other languages for the test itself.

The gov.uk support pages list BSL interpreters and lip speakers but mention no spoken-language interpreters, so ask DVSA before you book if you need one. If English is your second language, the practical route is to prepare in your own language and then practise the English wording of the questions before you sit the test.

Can you study in your own language?

Yes, in some cases. gov.uk says some official books and software are translated into other languages by approved organisations (gov.uk: revision and practice). It links to a list of those organisations rather than naming languages, so check which titles exist for your language.

Translated study material helps you learn the rules, but the real test will still be in English, Welsh or BSL. Learn the key English terms such as "carriageway", "dual carriageway", "give way" and "stopping distance", because they appear in the questions.

Can you hear the test read aloud?

If you have a reading difficulty, you can ask to hear the test through headphones when you book. gov.uk says you can hear it in English or Welsh, and replay the questions and possible answers as many times as you need (gov.uk: reading difficulty, disability or health condition).

That page lists the voiceover as support for reading difficulties. It does not say a voiceover is offered in other languages, or simply because English is not your first language. If you are not sure whether you qualify, contact DVSA before you book (details below).

Can you take the theory test in BSL?

Yes, if you are deaf or hard of hearing. gov.uk says a BSL video appears on the screen next to the questions and answers (gov.uk: reading difficulty, disability or health condition).

You can also arrange:

• a BSL interpreter with you during the test, with no extra fee
• a lip speaker with you during the test, with no extra fee
• a listening aid (hearing loop)

Tell DVSA you need this support when you book. Our guide to theory test support for reading difficulties covers the other types of help, such as extra time and a reader.

How do you ask for support?

Say so when you book through the official gov.uk service (gov.uk: book your theory test). For any other disability or health condition, gov.uk says to contact DVSA before you book:

• Email: theorycustomerservices@dvsa.gov.uk
• Phone: 0300 200 1122, Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm
• WhatsApp (messages only): +44 (0)1908 787001

The test costs £23 and support does not change that; gov.uk says BSL interpreters and lip speakers carry no extra fee. See our guide to booking and cost for the steps.

How to prepare if English is not your first language

• Take a short test first to see how much the English wording is slowing you down. The free diagnostic at theorytest.ai is one way to check.
• Read the official Highway Code and Know your traffic signs, which are free online.
• Use the gov.uk practice test to get used to question wording, as it uses the same topics as the real test.
• Allow time: if you do not pass, you must retake the whole test and pay again.

theorytest.ai is independent and is not affiliated with the DVSA. Our questions are in English. The figures above come from gov.uk, so check there before you book in case they change.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take the UK theory test in another language?

No. gov.uk says you can only take the test in English, Welsh or British Sign Language.

Can I have the theory test read out to me?

If you have a reading difficulty, you can ask to hear it through headphones in English or Welsh. Ask when you book.

Can I take the theory test in BSL?

Yes, if you are deaf or hard of hearing. A BSL video appears next to the questions and answers.

Can I bring an interpreter?

You can have a BSL interpreter or a lip speaker with you, at no extra fee. The gov.uk support pages mention no spoken-language interpreters, so ask DVSA before you book.

Are there translated study materials?

Some official books and software are translated by approved organisations. The test itself is not.