Continuing its foray into the overseas market, Sylvan Learning Systems Inc. said yesterday that it has won a $4.5 million contract to provide computerized drivers' tests in Northern Ireland.

The Baltimore-based education company announced a similar agreement with the United Kingdom in November to deliver drivers' exams throughout England, Scotland and Wales.

Under the five-year contract with Northern Ireland's Driver and Vehicle Testing Agency, Sylvan will operate six testing centers that will administer a computer-based version of the drivers' license theory tests.

Test bookings are set to begin in December, and the centers are to begin delivering the tests in January.

"This contract really validates Sylvan's strategy to pursue indigenous testing programs around the world," said Vickie Glazar, a Sylvan spokeswoman. The company has traditionally provided tests made in the United States to clients overseas, she said.

Brian Watson, chief executive of the driver and vehicle testing agency, said the partnership with Sylvan is expected to improve customer service.

"It also will give the agency both the information and the infrastructure it needs to keep the service at the cutting edge of testing technology in the future," he said. "This marks the start of an exciting new era in theory testing in Northern Ireland."

Sylvan shares closed yesterday at $25.25, down $1.50.

Pub Date: 3/24/99