ETA

A proposed overhaul of the British driving test will see driving instructors being given the power to force learners to undertake more lessons before they can re-sit a test. The test itself will be split into two – students failing one part will only have to re-take that element.

Learners will, however, be able to tell which instructors in their areas have the highest pass rates and best qualifications under a new star-rating system.

A spokesperson for the Environmental Transport Association said; “Newly-qualified drivers account for a disproportionately-high number of those killed and injured on the roads – better training is one of the measures that can help.”

The DfT consultation paper, entitled Learning to Drive, also proposes to stop publishing the questions for the theory test, meaning that candidates would no longer be able to memorise the answers.

The on-road test is likely to be divided into an examination focusing on manoeuvres and a test of general driving ability.

There will be an assessment of ‘independent driving’. Rather than giving directions, the examiner will ask the candidate to navigate to a landmark or well-signposted location. This is designed to test a candidate’s ability to drive alone with no help, including looking for road signs and, if necessary, turning around after taking the wrong route.

The ETA is a not-for-profit ethical organisation providing motorists with carbon-neutral breakdown cover and insurance products. As well as encouraging responsible driving to reduce carbon, the ETA campaigns for sustainable transport.