How's My Driving Blog

New plans to overhaul driving tests

The Department of Transport have recently proposed changes to the driving test in order to increase the pass rate, which will include a part-privatisation of the practical examination. According to the Independent on Sunday this proposal could see the closure of many test centres across the country and rapid job loss at motor agencies.

To the actual driving test itself the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVLA) has recommended that the three-point turn and reverse round a corner should be scrapped and replaced with more commonly used manoeuvres, for example, reversing out of a parking bay. At present the DVLA are conducting pilot examinations which asks learners to follow satnav directions for 20 minutes and if this trial is successful, this could in fact be the biggest change to test since 1996 when the written theory test was first introduced. Satnavs are one of the most commonly used items in the car, does it seem only right that we are testing everyone on their ability to use and follow directional signs from a satnav?

Currently the pass rate for learner drivers is under 50% and these suggested plans could see more tests being made available on evening and weekends, to allow people a quicker opportunity to re-take their test. As well as plans for the DVSA, DVLA and the VCA to agree unanimously that the age in which drivers must declare that they are fit to drive should be raised from the existing 70 years to 75.

What do you think about this driving test shake up? Do you think it’s needed to bring the driving test into the 21st century or do you think they are making it too easy? We would love to know your thoughts!