Is It Time To Overhaul The Driving Test?

Mr Beere 1935

16th, March, 1935, Mr, R,E,L,Beere of Kensington, London, proudly shows his wife, certificate number, 0001, the first ever driving certificate after he passed his driving test

A lot has changed since the driving test was introduced in 1935. The car has become the primary method of transport and the completion of the driving test has been widely acknowledged as a right of passage. Road safety has become a major issue and the DVLA have incorporated elements of theory and hazard perception into the driving test. However, the Institute of Advanced Motorists are keen to overhaul the current system and introduce a variety of brand new training methods for learner drivers.

Recommended Changes

The IAM are eager to prepare new drivers for the variety of hazards which may be encountered after the completion of the driving test. They have said that driving instructors should provide night-time and wet weather training. Young drivers could also receive lessons on the safe navigation of poorly maintained roads.

Road safety would be included as part of the national curriculum if the IAM proposals are given the green light. There would also be a restriction on the number of passengers that young drivers are allowed to travel with after passing the test. These positive steps would undoubtedly be welcomed by concerned parents and emergency service workers across the UK.

Expert Opinion

Newly qualified drivers already have the option of taking the Pass Plus course. However, the IAM have said that follow up-training should be mandatory. Motoring charity representative Neil Grieg said ‘The driving test needs to become a much more integrated part of a graduated licensing system that picks up on best practice from around the world.’

Government spokesperson Jake Berry followed up by saying ‘I think many of our local responsible driving instructors will already be doing a lot of what the IAM is recommending and I would urge people to find a good local driving instructor who will give them the breadth of experience they need to be a good driver.’

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