The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is set to take a major step toward improving emergency response knowledge among the general public.
It has been announced that the UK driving theory test will include enhanced CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) content and, for the first time, questions about automated external defibrillators (AEDs) starting in spring 2026.
The move comes as part of a national effort to boost the UK’s low cardiac arrest survival rates by equipping more people, especially learner drivers, with essential life-saving skills.
“This change will help ensure that hundreds of thousands of people every year gain basic knowledge of what to do in a life-threatening emergency,” said a DVSA spokesperson. “By strengthening first aid education in the theory test, we’re aiming for safer roads and a safer society.”
The new content builds on the current first aid section of the theory test, which already forms part of the 50-question multiple-choice format.
These updates will reflect the latest medical best practices and align with modern emergency response guidance.
What are the key points of the new changes?
- No additional cost, test time, or difficulty level will be introduced.
- The changes apply only to the theory test – The practical driving test remains unaffected.
- Questions will focus on recognising cardiac arrest, performing CPR and using an AED correctly.
With approximately 2.4 million theory tests taken annually and a pass rate of 45.7 per cent (July–September 2024), the DVSA estimates that hundreds of thousands of individuals each year will gain potentially life-saving knowledge.
The driving theory test comprises two parts taken together – a multiple-choice section and a hazard perception video test.
Both must be passed to move on to the practical driving test.
This initiative is a collaboration with medical experts and is part of the DVSA’s broader commitment to promoting safety.
This focus is on improving safety in society as well as on the road.
Our specialist team can support you with compliance awareness so that you do not get caught out by changes. Contact Jared Dunbar today for help.