What Languages Can You Take the Theory Test In?
You can only take the theory test in English, Welsh or British Sign Language (BSL). Some official revision books and software have been translated into other languages by approved organisations, but the test itself isn't available in any other language (GOV.UK).
- 3test languages
- Englishor Welsh voiceover
- BSLon-screen video
Your language options at a glance
| Option | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Test on screen in English | Yes | The standard test |
| Test on screen in Welsh | Yes | The full test is available in Welsh |
| British Sign Language | Yes | BSL video on screen next to the questions, or a BSL interpreter at no extra fee |
| Voiceover through headphones | English or Welsh only | For people with reading difficulties; ask when you book |
| Test in Polish, Urdu, Arabic or any other language | No | Translated revision material may be available, but the test is not |
Sources: GOV.UK: revision and practice and GOV.UK: reading difficulty, disability or health condition.
Can I take the theory test in Polish, Urdu or another language?
No. Whatever your first language, you'll need to take the test in English, Welsh or BSL. The only language-related support GOV.UK lists is:
- a voiceover through headphones in English or Welsh (for people with reading difficulties)
- on-screen BSL, a BSL interpreter or a lip speaker for people who are deaf or hard of hearing
Translated revision materials
GOV.UK says some official books and software are translated into other languages by approved organisations. DVSA's licensing guidance also includes a "Translation" licence for products in other languages (GOV.UK: make and sell revision products). The list of approved translations is published on Safe Driving for Life.
Translated material can help you understand the rules. But because the test is in English (or Welsh), you'll also need to practise reading questions in English before the day.
How to prepare if English isn't your first language
1. Learn the key road words
Many questions use words that are specific to UK roads. Learn these early:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Kerb | The raised edge between the road and the pavement |
| Pavement | The path for people walking at the side of the road |
| Give way | Let other traffic go first before you move out |
| Dual carriageway | A road with a central reservation separating traffic going in opposite directions |
| Central reservation | The strip in the middle of a dual carriageway or motorway |
| Overtake | Pass a slower vehicle going in the same direction |
| Box junction | An area marked with criss-cross yellow lines that you must not enter until your exit is clear (Highway Code rule 174) |
| Toucan crossing | A signal-controlled crossing that cyclists and pedestrians can both use |
| Contraflow | A lane where traffic travels in the opposite direction to the rest, for example a bus or cycle lane on a one-way street |
| Vulnerable road users | Those most at risk: pedestrians (especially children, older and disabled people), cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists (Highway Code rule 204) |
2. Practise reading questions carefully
Small words matter: "not", "first", "most likely", "must" and "should" can change the answer. In The Highway Code, MUST and MUST NOT show a legal requirement. Practise with our topic pages on the car theory test hub, which have no timer and explain every answer in plain English.
3. Learn signs visually
Road signs work the same whatever language you speak. Circles give orders, triangles warn and rectangles give information. Try our road signs test and read Know your traffic signs on GOV.UK.
4. Use the video and hazard perception parts to your advantage
The 3 video questions are based on a silent clip, and the hazard perception test has no reading at all. You click when you see a developing hazard. Practise with our free hazard perception test.
5. Take timed mocks in English
Reading in a second language takes longer. Use our mock theory test with its 57-minute timer to check you can finish 50 questions in time.
Reading difficulties are different
If you have dyslexia or another reading difficulty, you can ask for extra time, a reader, or someone to reword the questions, with proof. These options are for reading difficulties, not for language. See theory test extra time.
Northern Ireland
Theory tests in Northern Ireland are run by the DVA. Check nidirect for language options there, and see our Northern Ireland theory test guide.
Ready to practise?
All MockTheory practice is free with no sign-up. Start with the theory test questions and answers by topic, or riders can head to motorcycle theory test practice.
MockTheory uses original practice questions based on The Highway Code. Not the real test questions. MockTheory is not affiliated with or endorsed by the DVSA.
Frequently asked questions
What languages is the UK theory test available in?
English, Welsh and British Sign Language only. You can't take it in any other language.
Can I take the theory test in Polish or Urdu?
No. Some official revision books and software are translated by approved organisations, but the test itself is only in English, Welsh or BSL.
Can I have a translator in my theory test?
GOV.UK only lists a British Sign Language interpreter (and a lip speaker) for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. It doesn't offer interpreters for other languages.
Is there a voiceover in the theory test?
Yes, if you have a reading difficulty you can ask to hear the test through headphones in English or Welsh when you book.
Can I take the theory test in Welsh?
Yes. Welsh is one of the three languages the test is available in, and the voiceover is also available in Welsh.
Ready to practise? Take a free 50-question mock theory test or try the hazard perception test – no sign-up.
More theory test guides