The DVSA has launched a pioneering British Sign Language (BSL) online translation tool for booking theory tests – making it the first government service to embed such a tool directly into its digital platforms.
Developed in collaboration with Government Digital Service (GDS), Kainos and accessibility partner Signly, the new tool enables candidates to have website text translated into BSL. This supports greater independence for the UK’s 151,000 BSL users and improves accessibility across the board.
A step forward for accessibility
Robert Davies, DVSA’s Theory Test Digital Service Owner, said:
“DVSA’s priority is to ensure the theory test is accessible to everyone – we want learners to have the confidence and support they need to succeed.”
DVSA says it will continue to refine the service based on user feedback and hopes it will serve as a model for wider adoption across public services.
Practical support for deaf learners
The theory test booking system has seen a range of accessibility improvements since its relaunch in 2021, including:
- Extra time bookings for candidates requiring support
- Digital upload of medical evidence and ID documents
- Prompt reminders for missing uploads
BSL support is also available in the test itself, either through on-screen videos or by booking a live BSL interpreter or deaf relay interpreter. Between April 2024 and March 2025, over 1,800 tests were taken with BSL on screen, and 363 with an interpreter present.
John Rogers, CEO of Disability Driving Instructors, welcomed the change:
“This is a really positive response from DVSA which will help improve communication with Deaf applicants. The addition of a Signly BSL interpreter to the booking page helps explain what support is available and how to apply for it.”
Championing inclusion in public services
DVSA’s partner organisations highlighted the significance of this launch:
- Signly CEO Matt Kirby called it a “significant step towards full access and equality.”
- Kainos Public Sector Director Andy Kemp noted that “true innovation starts with inclusion.”
A BSL version of this announcement is available on DVSA’s YouTube channel, along with Highway Code resources in BSL.
To explore the new booking service, visit gov.uk/book-theory-test and switch on BSL.
This announcement was published by DVSA and the Government Digital Service on 8 July 2025.
