In a government service first, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has rolled out a British Sign Language (BSL) online translation tool for deaf people booking their theory test.
This is the first time such a tool has been embedded directly into a government digital platform. The way it works is simple but smart – you turn on the BSL translation option on the booking page, and a BSL translator appears in a video pop-up box, ready to sign the content on the page.
Mobile users can then swipe on the text they want translated in sign language while computer users can move their cursor over the text and press on the ‘play’ icon. The translator then signs the selected line.
Innovative partnership
The new system was developed in collaboration with Government Digital Service, Kainos the digital transformation specialist, and accessibility expert, Signly. The aim is deepen support for the UK’s 151,000 BSL users so they can better access government services.
Such support ensures all deaf individuals can better understand ambiguous wording, benefit from the nuance that BSL offers, and reduce stress and fatigue.
“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.”
• Robert Davies, DVSA’s Theory Test Digital Service Owner
More inclusive
This innovative service joins the theory test’s already inclusive approach. For instance, since its launch in 2021, there are now several excellent accessibility options including:
- Extra time bookings for candidates requiring support
- Digital upload of medical evidence and ID documents
- Prompt reminders for missing uploads.
Importantly, BSL support is available in the test itself, either via on-screen videos or the ability to book a deaf relay interpreter or a live BSL interpreter. Such support is widely used, too – for example, between April 2024 and March 2025, 1,800 tests were taken with on-screen BSL plus 363 with an interpreter on-hand to lend support.
“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.”
• John Rogers, CEO, Disability Driving Instructor
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