Launching a high-performance app for UK driving theory learners
Learner adoption in the first 6 months
65%Increase in Android theory test app revenue
4xTotal downloads across RED theory products in 2024
323kTHE CHALLENGE
How to modernize a legacy codebase and scale a high-traffic edtech product without disrupting users?
RED Driver Training, the UK’s largest driving school, set out to expand its learner offering by building a comprehensive digital platform that supports both theory preparation and practical driving progress.
As part of this strategy, RED acquired Splink Industries, the team behind the James May Theory Test app, to gain access to a proven platform and the expertise behind it.
To realise this vision, RED engaged Relevant Software to redesign, extend, and replatform the acquired solution into a modern, branded application aligned with RED’s standards and learner expectations. Our team was tasked with full ownership, spanning product design, software architecture, development, and delivery.
The inherited codebase came with several problems: the user experience didn’t meet modern mobile standards, key features like learner progress tracking were missing, and it wasn’t yet connected to RED’s internal systems.
The goal was clear — transform a legacy product into a high-performing, future-ready solution that could scale nationally and reflect the strength of the RED brand.
Adam WatsonCTO at RED Driver TrainingWe couldn’t be happier with the work Relevant Software delivered on our driving theory test app. Their team integrated seamlessly with ours and impressed us with their ability to adapt quickly to changes. The project managers kept everything on track, and the final app fully met our expectations.
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Book a free consultationTHE SOLUTION
A modern learn-to-drive platform built around RED’s brand, learners, and systems
Complex progress tracker
We introduced a clear, dual-track progress system that empowers learners to monitor their development in both theory and practical modules. It gives users confidence and control as they prepare for test day.
Test quizzes
Fun and challenging quizzes, including timed mock exams and flashcard-based road sign games, help learners strengthen knowledge and build test-day confidence in a low-pressure environment.
Video guides
A rich video library turns tricky driving topics into engaging, visual explanations. These guides boost understanding and help learners feel more prepared behind the wheel.
In-app feedback tool
We created a simple, direct way for learners to ask questions and share suggestions. With fast responses from RED’s support team, users feel heard, supported, and guided every step of the way.
Personalised training plan
Smart algorithms adapt learning paths to each user’s needs, prioritising difficult topics, learning pace, and test dates. Every learner follows a plan designed to boost confidence and results.
Achievements
Motivational badges, medals, and milestones celebrate each step forward. Learners stay encouraged and excited as they unlock rewards throughout their journey.
THE RESULT
1,300+ learners pass their DVSA test monthly
More than 1,300 users successfully pass their DVSA theory test each month using the app’s structured curriculum and interactive features.
323,000 downloads in 2024
Combined usage of RED-branded and theory test apps has tripled year-on-year, from 109k in 2023 to 323k in 2024.
£362,000 annual revenue
App revenue nearly doubled, growing from £187k in 2023 to £362k in 2024. The Android theory app saw the sharpest increase, from £43.2k to £155.1k across both JMTA and CDT apps.
THE CLIENT’S REQUEST
- Rebuild the acquired app to match RED’s brand identity
- Combine theory training with new features for practical progress
- Ensure seamless login through RED’s authentication system
- Improve scalability, maintainability, and future extensibility
WHAT WE DID
✓ Refactored and redesigned the app from the ground up
✓ Integrated RED APIs for real-time learner progress and authentication
✓ Delivered a full content management system via Contentful
✓ Launched Android and iOS versions on time with post-launch support
Adam WatsonCTO at RED Driver TrainingThanks to the new app design that reflects RED’s brand, our students are more engaged than ever.
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