Government says ‘adieu’ to foreign-language driving tests

Driving tests may only be taken in English and Welsh as of 7 April, as the result of a newly introduced policy claimed to improve safety and clamp down on fraud.

Prior to the change, which was announced by roads minister Stephen Hammond, theory tests were available with voiceovers in 19 foreign languages, and interpreters could be consulted for both theory and practical tests.

The government pointed to results of a consultation by the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), showing that more than 70 per cent supported the withdrawal of foreign language voiceovers and interpreters.

Said Hammond: “It is essential that all road users have the right skills to use our roads safely and responsibly. By stopping driving tests in foreign languages we will cut out the risk of fraud, and help to ensure that all drivers can read road signs and fully understand the rules of the road.”

A majority of respondents to the consultation reportedly agreed that not understanding English or Welsh could lead to problems understanding traffic signs or the rules of the road, or speaking to enforcement officers.

Said the Department for Transport: “The decision also reflects concerns about interpreters helping candidates cheat on their theory tests by feeding them the correct answers. Since 2008, more than 1,300 theory test passes have been revoked after investigations into fraudulent interpreters.

“Between February 2008 and December 2009, more than 20 per cent of all theory tests taken with an interpreter were found to be fraudulent, with one interpreter conducting 586 fraudulent tests. Last year, two interpreters were each jailed for 12 months for helping learners cheat on their tests.”