Driving Test Changes

Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency , Driving Test, DVSA, Practical Driving Test, RAC Foundation, Road Safety, Theory Driving Test

When was the last time you needed to reverse around a corner? This driving test classic is set to be eliminated in a bid to make driving tests more realistic for learners taking them.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has proposed new plans that will see the introduction of reversing out of a parking bay and following directions via a sat-nav and not road signs.

The proposed changes not only make the test more realistic to the experiences that new drivers will encounter but will also make strides to protect young drivers who represent over a quarter of all people killed in road traffic accidents.

DVSA chief executive Gareth Llewellyn highlights that “making sure the test better assesses a driver’s ability to drive safely and independently is part of our strategy to help every driver through a lifetime of safe driving.”

Trials are currently taking place across 32 locations throughout Britain including 4,500 learner driver and 850 instructor participants. Later this year a report will be published but early signs have been very positive with a great reception for the changes.

Steve Gooding, director of the RAC Foundation, said: “these proposed recognise that it is more important for candidates to demonstrate the capability to drive independently on high-risk roads than being able to reverse flawlessly into a quiet cul-de-sac.

The new approach will be deemed a success if, in the longer term, it produces better-prepared drivers and we experience fewer road casualties.”
If the proposed plans pass consultation they could be introduced in early 2017.