Passing the theory test with Special Educational Needs
Published 12 December 2022
Last updated 12 December 2022
In this blog, Gordon shares his experience of using the official DVSA eLearning to pass his theory test.
Hello!
I have a specific learning difficulty which sometimes affects my ability to process complex information. When I started revising, I was worried that my condition would make it difficult to pass the theory test. I was also worried that the eLearning study materials would be all reading and no doing.
Let me explain: I find ‘learning by doing’ helps me to understand as well as remember key information. For example, The Official Theory Test Kit online has interactive exercises, which makes it easier to grasp important things like the Highway Code rules.
That is not say that I found everything straightforward. It took a while to get speed limits lodged in my head, but with patience (and frequent visits to the Safe Driving for Life website!) I was able to keep practising at a pace that suited me.
I am pleased to say that it has all been worth it. I passed my driving theory test and the knowledge I gained will come in handy when I take my practical test in a few weeks’ time.
Advice for learner drivers with specific learning disabilities
My experience of preparing for the theory test will be different to your experience, but here are a few tips to get you started:
- Choose a driving instructor that has experience of teaching people with special educational needs
- Don’t be afraid to talk to your instructor about any additional help you need with theory test revision
- Safe Driving for Life has free practice tests, as well as the ‘Theory Test Kit’ eLearning. I found both these resources were a significant help
- If you’re worried about what happens on the day of the theory test then have a look at the Disabilities and the car driver theory test blog
- Finally, relax, you’ve got this. It might take you a little longer to feel like you’re ready to take the test, but everyone learns at different speeds. If you’ve prepared well, there’s no reason to believe that you’ll leave the test centre without a pass certificate!