Articles of Interest.....

Learning to Drive - Report on Consultation

Summary of main decisions

The Learning to Drive programme will be implemented in a number of phases.

This is Phase 1. Other phases will follow subject to the outcome of the ongoing research and trialling.

During 2009/10

1     Continued roll out across Great Britain of the new pre-driver qualification in safe road use.

2     Introduction of a partial credit for the theory test for car drivers for those awarded the new pre-driver qualification in safe road use – target date October 2009.

3     Introduction of case studies into the theory test for learner car drivers and moped/motorcycle riders the next time the question bank is refreshed – target date October 2009.

4     Continue with the programme of research development and trialling of individual measures, including a syllabus and workbook, attitude advisor, record of test readiness, independent driving, and 3D animation.

5     Launch a trial to assess the effectiveness of the proposed new learning to drive syllabus and process – by March 2010.

6     Undertake consultation on modernising driver training, including proposals to enable a more informed choice of instructor – by March 2010.

7     Undertake analysis of the implications of separating theory test questions published as learning material from ‘live’ items – by Spring 2010.

8     Facilitate the development of a new voluntary vocational van driver qualification for launch – by March 2010.

9     Contribute to the development of the new approach to re-education and re-assessment of certain road traffic offenders – ongoing.

During 2010/11

10     Introduction of an assessment of competence whilst driving independently into all practical tests for learner drivers, shifting the current emphasis on manoeuvring and creating the opportunity to open out the test routes and increase the driving time by reducing the number of special manoeuvres – target date October 2010.

11     Implement supervising driver sitting in on car practical test and debrief – target date October 2010.

12.    Continue research and trial use of 3D animation by spring 2011 for:

            •  The current hazard perception test

            •  2nd generation hazard perception test

            •  Introducing situational judgement in the theory test

13     Introduce new, improved Pass Plus scheme – by March 2011.

14     Continue to work with employers and insurers on a suite of new qualifications aimed at work-based and advanced post-test driver training schemes, and which are intended to enable insurers to provide discounted insurance premiums.