Driving Test To Get Tougher
But just what are the details?
The government and the DSA have recently announced 'sweeping changes' to the driving test for learner drivers
Ministers are adamant that the numbers of deaths on the roads caused by newly qualified drivers must be reduced
At present, those who passed their driving test in the previous 12 months account for a very high percentage of those killed or seriously injured on UK roads
Early reports of the changes suggest that the test is to 'become much harder to pass'. The changes will inevitably mean more expense for those learning to drive, and the cost of a test looks set to rise to around the £80 mark
Just how will the DSA make the test harder?
Just some of the proposals include:
- A driving test syllabus, setting out exactly what is needed to become a safe driver, from the basics of car control to more challenging aspects like driving at night
- A revised test format, including the option of modular assessment and partial retakes
- A change in test focus, putting less emphasis on mechanical manoeuvres and more on the ability to drive independently, for example by requiring the candidate to find the route
- Advanced qualifications for more experienced drivers and vocational training for those who drive for work, such as hauliers
- A star-rating system for driving instructors so learners can make an informed choice based on experience and pass rates
Speaking at the DSA training centre in Cardington, Bedfordshire,
Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly said:
"It is time for a new approach to
learning to drive
We must make sure that novice drivers are safe drivers when they have
passed their test. We must also create an expectation of lifelong
learning, so that people continue advanced learning after their test
Those who undertake extra training will not only be safer drivers, but
will have the added incentive that they could see a financial reward in
terms of lower insurance premiums"
As always, any comments that you have can be added below this article
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I think it's hard enough now
I don't think that the government should do this. It's already hard enough and I've had about 35 lessons. I think it costs too much anyway, but if they make it harder they'll make it even more expensive
One idea is to make driving a subject in school, then it could be done mainly for free before people even get to 17
Maybe they dont want to do that because they make more money when we have to take more tests
Jules in Leeds (learning with the AA!)
I agree
I only passed my test a few months ago, but I thought it was really easy. I don't think that there's anything in the test to tell if someone's going to be a safe driver at all. I think the test should be longer and there should be more about attitude. Young drivers can be safe, but some are only interested in driving as fast as possible
Jen
At the end of the day, the
At the end of the day, the DSA aren't interested in cost. It is about putting SAFE drivers on the road - can you put a cost/price on a life? The roads are so much busier now so there is little margin for error without getting in a smash!
Until people realise they need to learn safe driving for life and not just the driving test there is always going to be an attitude issue.
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