INTRODUCTION

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) was set up in 1990 to promote road safety by improving driving standards. Before this, driving tests were administered by the government department responsible for transport. 

DSA is a government agency and is part of the DVO (Driver and Vehicle Operator) Group, including DVLA, VCA and VOSA. 

DSA’s main function is to fairly test drivers, motorcycle riders and driving instructors. Other activities carried out by the Agency include:

• training driving examiners
• maintaining the Register of Approved Driving Instructors 
• supervising Compulsory Basic Training for learner motorcyclists
• delivering the theory test for all drivers and riders
• promoting road safety through ‘Arrive Alive’ presentations to young people & ‘Arrive Alive Classic’ for over 50’s
• producing a range of publications and multi-media learning aids.