Sylvan Learning Systems has won a $4.5 million (€4.1 million) five-year contract with Northern Ireland's Driver and Vehicle Testing Agency to deliver drivers' licence theory tests next year. The contract is for a five-year term to the end of 2004.

Sylvan, a Nasdaq-quoted company, will operate six testing centres, delivering a computer-based version of the drivers' exam. It will introduce a similar system in Britain after signing a $125 million contract with the Driving Standards Agency last November.