- Biggest shake up of the driving test in a generation
- Proposals for a ‘cashback’ incentive for the driving test, introducing in a deposit which is returned to the driver if they pass, encouraging learner drivers to take their test when they are ready
- Government seeks views on how to improve the service offered by DVSA and DVLA
The Department for Transport (DfT) has launched proposals to improve the driving test in Great Britain.
Under the new proposals learner drivers would be required to pay a deposit when they take their test, which they get back if they pass.
This will help make sure learner drivers are:
- better prepared for taking their test and driving independently
- less likely to have an accident in the months following the test
- taking their test when they are ready and confident of passing
Only 21% of driving tests result in a first time pass. The majority of tests are repeat examinations.
Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: “We want to make learning to drive safer and more affordable. This change will give those who pass first time some money back and provide an incentive for learners to be more prepared before they take their test. These common sense proposals mean that all learner drivers can feel the benefit.”
Steve Gooding director of the RAC Foundation said: “We support measures that will encourage learner drivers to get the experience they need to pass their test first time with flying colours, rather than barely scraping through or failing and having to repeat the process a few months down the road at yet more expense.”
The consultation also sets out proposals to:
- introduce more driving test appointment times, including weekends and evenings
- offer tests from a range of venues
- review fees for all services provided by motoring agencies
- change providers for some services
- combine services at motoring agencies
