Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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163. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the aids in place to assist persons to prepare and pass the driver theory test; if there are supports similar to the reasonable accommodation scheme for State exams; if he has considered introducing such a scheme in view of the particular challenges some persons face but which have no bearing on their driving skills and competences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16927/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The Driver Theory Test provider offers various options to accommodate candidates who may require special assistance to take their test.

For instance, they offer a voiceover option whereby the questions and answers are read out to the candidate over the headphones. Additional time is also allowed for the candidate to take the test. There is also a reader recorder service whereby a staff member will read the questions and answer options to the candidate and record their answers on screen. Other services offered include dyslexia support, professional and ISL video clips, or ISL interpreters.

To avail of extra time or a reader recorder service during their test, a candidate must write to the Driver Theory Test Service with medical evidence on official headed paper from a school, doctor or professional person confirming the assistance the candidate requires.

This should be posted to: Driver Theory Test, PO Box 15, Dundalk, Co. Louth.

Please note the voiceover option can be selected upon booking your test online or via telephone.

Translator support tests are available by special arrangement at certain centres. This support is for candidates who do not speak or understand English. Evidence of a candidate’s requirement for this service must be provided.

The Deputy should be aware that, due to Covid-19 restrictions, in-person assistance services such as translators, reader recorders and dyslexia support professionals are currently suspended. These will remain suspended until government guidelines allow the service to resume. Additional time, recorded voiceovers in English and other languages and ISL video clips are currently available to customers who require assistance.