DSA to stop publishing theory test questions

1 November 2010

The Driving Standards Agency will stop publishing the multiple choice questions and answers used in theory tests. Road Safety Minister Mike Penning says this will help ensure new drivers learn the principles behind driving theory rather than just learning answers.

The move follows the introduction of independent driving into the driving test and the DSA's decision to stop publishing test routes in October 2010, to make sure the test assesses a learner's ability to drive and not their capacity to memorise routes.

In September 2011 DSA will change the format of books and other learning materials available to help people prepare for theory tests. This will take place at the same time as more challenging case studies are introduced to car and motorcycle theory tests.

Then, from 1 January 2012, DSA will create theory tests using questions which will not be published. Practice questions and answers, not used in theory tests, will still be available to help candidates with revision. 

Other companies that publish products containing DSA theory test questions will also no longer have access to the questions used in the tests.