Driving Theory Tests to Include CPR and Defibrillator Questions from 2026

From 2026, UK driving theory tests will include CPR and defibrillator questions to improve cardiac arrest survival rates.

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From early 2026, learner drivers in the UK will face new questions in their driving theory tests covering Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) announced the change as part of a wider effort to improve cardiac arrest survival rates across the country. The update has been developed in collaboration with Resuscitation Council UK and the Save a Life programmes in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.

Why is the Change to the Driving Test Being Introduced?

According to the UK Government, there are over 40,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in the UK every year, but the survival rate remains below 10 per cent. In many cases, witnesses are unsure what action to take, which can delay life-saving intervention. Performing CPR and using an AED within three to five minutes of a cardiac arrest can increase survival chances to as high as 70 per cent.

The DVSA hopes that by including CPR and AED knowledge in the driving theory tests, learner drivers will be equipped with essential emergency response skills before they start driving independently. This is particularly relevant as many cardiac arrests occur in public places or at roadside incidents, where drivers are often among the first to arrive.

Chief Driving Examiner Mark Winn stated that being a safe driver goes beyond controlling a vehicle and includes knowing how to act in emergencies to potentially save a life.

What Will the New Driving Theory Test Content Cover?

The new questions will focus on:

  • Recognising the signs of cardiac arrest

  • How to carry out CPR correctly

  • How to operate an AED safely and effectively

The DVSA will update official study materials such as The DVSA Official Guide to Learning to Drive and The Highway Code to reflect the changes. These resources will provide learner drivers with the knowledge they need to pass the test and act confidently in real-life emergencies.

What is the Potential Impact on Public Health

Theory tests are taken around 2.4 million times each year in the UK. Introducing CPR and AED education into this process means that hundreds of thousands of new drivers annually will gain vital knowledge about cardiac arrest response. This could lead to:

  • Greater public confidence in using defibrillators

  • Wider understanding of the importance of early CPR

  • More lives saved through faster intervention before emergency services arrive

Many people remain unaware that AEDs are designed for use by untrained members of the public. They provide step-by-step voice instructions, making them straightforward to operate in high-pressure situations. Increasing familiarity with this equipment through the theory test could encourage more people to take action when needed.

Opportunities for Communities and Organisations

This update also offers a reminder for businesses, schools, sports clubs and public facilities to review their emergency preparedness. Having an easily accessible defibrillator on-site, with clear signage and a maintenance plan, can make a critical difference in the outcome of a cardiac arrest.

For communities, increased AED awareness means more people will have the confidence to help in an emergency. For organisations, it provides an opportunity to support national efforts by investing in life-saving equipment and encouraging staff and members to learn CPR.

As a trusted supplier of defibrillators and accessories, Defib Supplies supports this move to improve public knowledge and readiness. We will continue to provide reliable equipment, training guidance and expert advice to help ensure that anyone, anywhere, can respond effectively in a cardiac emergency.

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