About 10% of people have some form of dyslexia. This article discusses how far the theory test prevents people with literacy and numeracy problems from passing their driving test. Recognising that the theory test is making it harder for unemployed people to obtain a driving licence, Canterbury Job Club decided to collaborate with the ADC School of Motoring at Canterbury, Kent, England to attempt to address this problem directly. A trial project was set up, financed by the Job Club, where the ADC ran six theory lessons of total length 90min. The evidence showed that the theory test is a real barrier for people with reading difficulties. The UK driving theory test was introduced in July and had an initial pass rate of 85%. In 1997, its pass mark was raised, and the number of its questions was doubled; the pass rate fell to 66%. Dyslexia specialist P Ott cites the groundwork before the test as the primary obstacle; problems are caused by the preparation which requires the theory literature to be read, understood, and remembered. She says that behind the wheel of a car, dyslexics perform as well as other drivers; their common sense, judgement, eye-hand coordination, and spatial skills are no worse. The DSA's Theory Test Factsheet offers specific guidelines to those with special needs.
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