As if the world of driving tests was not scary enough, there are some proposed changes to the ways in which drivers will take their tests. There has been a series of proposals in the UK to change the way in which drivers and riders take their tests. The new testing measures have been announced, but there is no definite deadline for when these will be implemented.
A Road Traffic Amendment Bill is currently in the draft process. For UK drivers that currently hold a license, these changes will not affect you.
But, for upcoming and learner drivers, these proposed changes may have an impact on your lessons.
Provisional Licenses: What’s New?
In order to drive on UK roads, you need to hold a provisional license. This is an important part of the learning process. Without it, your instructor will not allow you to take lessons. This is not going to change. So, if you don’t have a provisional permit, you will have to obtain one so that you can start learning.
The great news is, is that for 16 and a half year olds, you will be able to apply for your provisional license. This is because 16-year olds can drive scooters and mopeds. But, you will need to hold you temporary license for a minimum of one year prior to taking your test. This means that you will have to have a full years worth of driving lessons before you are allowed to sit your test.
The practical and theory tests are required so that you can hold a full license. The hazard and perception test will form part of the theory examination. You can find more information here on the testing process. For 16-year olds, it’s not all good news. You will need to be 17.5 years old before you can obtain your full license.
What about Driving Lessons? The Changes
Changes to the way that people undertake driving lessons are going to form part of these governmental changes. An approved driving instructor is a must. After all, you need to have the right people instructing you on how to drive. But, you can drive on motorways with approve instructors. As long as you are in a dual-controlled car, you will be able to undergo training and lessons along the great British motorways.
You will also be able to drive above 45 MPH. Currently, learners in the UK are capped at 45 MPH. But, with the national limit being 60MPH, these changes are seen to be a reflection of this.
As a learner driver, your driving test will now be more robust. There will be a range of roads used, giving you more breadth and depth to the driving experience. You must also complete a Learning to Drive course. You will be accredited with a logbook that must be signed by your approved instructor. This must be done prior to the practical test.
For UK learners, the new rules may seem somewhat cumbersome. But, with a government bid to make British roads safer, more people will benefit from these measures.
