Independent
driving introduced into tests next Monday Independent
driving will be introduced into the British driving test next Monday (4
October). Candidates in
all main categories of test will be asked to spend around 10 minutes
demonstrating their ability to drive safely without step-by-step directions
from an examiner. Road Safety
Minister Mike Penning said: “The
independent driving assessment gives test candidates the chance to show they
have the necessary skills to cope with the sort of traffic conditions they will
face every day. “Learning
those skills from the very start of the driving process will help make new
drivers safer.” At the moment
the examiner gives directions throughout the test. But during the independent
drive, the candidate will have to follow traffic signs or a short series of
verbal directions, or a combination of both. To help candidates understand
where they are going when following verbal directions, the examiner will show a
diagram. Candidates can also ask for a reminder as they drive. DSA’s Chief
Driving Examiner Trevor Wedge said: “The aim of
independent driving is to assess the candidate’s ability to drive safely whilst
making decisions independently. It’s not a test of navigation and candidates
won’t be failed for going off route. ”The test is
being improved to help produce safer drivers, but that doesn’t mean it’s
getting any harder. We know many instructors are already teaching independent
driving.” In addition,
practical car test candidates will only have to complete one of the three
reversing manoeuvres, instead of two at present. Other categories of test
remain unchanged. The price and duration of tests also stay the same. |
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