Learner drivers are being urged to study updated materials before taking their theory test. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has issued a reminder, announcing that significant changes are on the way. According to an update on the official gov.uk website, theory tests will be revised from 2026 to include new CPR questions and, for the first time, content on using defibrillators aimed at improving cardiac arrest survival rates.
The DVSA explained: "Driving theory tests will include enhanced first aid questions from 2026, building on existing first aid content that has been part of driver education for years." The DVSA is broadening its theory test question bank to "include enhanced cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) content" and to add "questions about automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for the first time." This change is designed to help improve the UK’s low cardiac arrest survival rates by increasing public confidence in responding to emergencies.
Learner drivers must pass the driving theory test before they can book their practical driving test. The theory test consists of two parts, which are taken together. The multiple-choice section has 50 questions selected from a bank of more than 700, covering topics like road signs, traffic laws, vehicle safety, hazard awareness and basic first aid. To pass this part, candidates must answer at least 43 questions correctly. The hazard perception section includes a video-based assessment that tests learners' ability to identify developing hazards on the road.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
A cardiac arrest is when your heart suddenly stops pumping blood around your body. They can be caused by:
If you think somebody has gone into cardiac arrest you should call 999 (on speakerphone) and immediately start doing CPR. If there is someone with you, ask them to find an AED and use it as soon as you can. The DVSA stressed: "Every minute without CPR and defibrillation reduces the chance of survival by up to 10%, making immediate bystander intervention crucial while waiting for emergency services."
The new questions will test practical knowledge that could save lives. You can read the examples below.
An adult casualty is not breathing. To maintain circulation, CPR should be given. What’s the correct depth to press down on their chest?
Who can use a public access defibrillator (AED)?
Len Nokes, Chair of Save a Life Cymru, whose daughter Claire died from complications following cardiac arrest in 2017, said: "When Claire had her cardiac arrest, some knowledge of CPR might have made a difference. We hope that by making CPR and defibrillator use part of the theory test, we will significantly increase the number of people with this life-saving awareness."
James Cant, Chief Executive Officer of Resuscitation Council UK, added: "By embedding these life-saving skills into such a widely taken assessment, we can help ensure that more people gain the knowledge and confidence to act during a cardiac arrest."
Mark Winn, DVSA Chief Driving Examiner, concluded: "Part of being a safe and responsible driver is knowing what to do in an emergency – how to step in and make a real, life-saving difference. Learning CPR and how to use an AED is a very simple skill and adding this into the official learning resource is a great way for DVSA to support the drive to raise awareness."
