DVSA adds CPR questions to driving theory tests from 2026

Person practicing CPR and defibrillator techniques on training mannequin during first aid course (Illustrative image) (Photo by Elena Tita/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images) Getty Images

Learner drivers will face new life-saving questions on CPR and defibrillators when taking their theory tests from early 2026. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) confirmed the major update aims to boost emergency response skills across the UK.

The changes will add questions about cardiopulmonary resuscitation techniques and automated external defibrillator use for the first time ever. Theory test candidates will need to know proper hand placement, compression rates, and how to operate emergency equipment.

Critical timing saves lives

More than 40,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the UK each year, with fewer than one in 10 people currently surviving. When CPR and defibrillators are used within three to five minutes of collapse, survival rates can reach 70%.

"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 DVSA said. Drivers may encounter emergencies at road traffic incidents, motorway services, or when people collapse at bus stops and petrol stations.

Massive training opportunity

Reports suggest the changes will affect 2.4 million people who take theory tests annually, creating one of the largest emergency skills training programmes in UK history. The questions will be theory-based only, with no practical demonstration required during the test.

Current data indicates 41% of the UK population has received CPR training in the past decade. The DVSA is adding the new content to official study resources, with materials becoming available from autumn this year.

Following European lead

Research suggests 44% of European countries already mandate basic life support training for driving licence applicants. The UK's move aligns with international trends towards incorporating emergency preparedness into driver education.

The questions will build on existing first aid content that has been part of driver education for years. Learner drivers can prepare using the official DVSA Theory Test Kit app, which will include the new emergency response questions.

Sources used: "Chronicle Live", "Mirror", "DVSA", "Resuscitation Council UK" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.