Launch

April 21st 2009 saw the launch of a programme to better-equip newly-qualified drivers to drive safely and responsibly.

The Programme

Will implement phased measures based on education and incentives to:

• Strengthen the way people learn to drive and are tested
• Modernise driver training
• Introduce a more efficient and effective learning process
• Ensure that newly-qualified drivers are better-equipped to drive safely and responsibly after passing the test
• Give employers and insurers greater confidence in the abilities of newly-qualified drivers and those who have invested in further training
• Create a culture of continued and lifelong learning

Themes

The Programme has been bulit around four themes:

• Pre-driver education
• Improved learning and teaching
• Improved tests
• Post test

These themes will focus on attitudes, understanding and behaviours as well as driving skills.

First Phase Delivery

Aims to deliver by March 2011 broader Theory and Practical Tests, a Learning Trial and further options for learning and qualifications.

Ongoing plans for: 

Roll out of the new voluntary qualification in Safe Road Use.

This is aimed at 14 to 16 year-olds, but open to everyone.The course is designed to give a good grounding in road safety. It comprises two Learning Modules (40 hours each).

The course can be delivered in schools, colleges, youth programmes, and is currently available in ten locations in Scotland and England.

Introduction of an abridged Theory Test.

Those who have gained the above qualification will be eligible for a partial credit towards their Theory Test, valid for three years.

They take only 35 Multiple Choice questions instead of the current 50. They also pay a lower fee.

This shorter test will still include Hazard Perception, a Case Study and Multiple Choice questions.

From 28th September 2009, Case Studies form part of the Theory Test.

This will assess candidates' understanding of Driver Theory, while the Multiple Choice questions will continue to assess their knowledge of the subject.

Five of the 50 questions will be asked on a scenario. Candidates will answer these questions in the same way they do now - by using the touch-screen or the mouse. 

Initially, only one Case Study will be used per Test, based on existing questions in the Theory Question Bank, although over time, more may be introduced in each test.

During 2010/2011

From October 2010, the introduction of an Assessment Of Competence To Drive Independently, on all Practical Tests.

This will reduce the number of reversing manoeuvres from two to one, giving more time to assess "normal" driving. We'll give you more details during your lessons, as you approach test standard.

Review of the Pass Plus scheme by March 2011.