The DVSA are consulting on changes to the driving test. They believe the measures will encourage pupils to be better prepared for the driving test. The measure are said to help reduce driving test waiting times.
These are the measures which are being consulted on:
extending the period that a cancelled test will result in a lost test fee
extending the period unsuccessful learners will have to wait before they can apply for another test
changes to the eyesight test
introducing digital pass certificates for theory and practical tests and asking your pupils what they use their theory and practical certificates for
requiring instructors to display their badges on all car tests so that DVSA can better identify those who need support
finding out what information you would find useful when choosing a driving instructor.
To what extent do you agree or disagree that the standard period before which an unsuccessful candidate can make a further application for a test should be extended from 10 to 28 working days?
I agree that students having failed a driving test should be better prepared for their next attempt.
However, assuming they have taken the first attempt when completely ready I do not see the benefit in delaying their chances of taking a further test. I can see the benefits of it giving other candidates a chance to take a driving test. Currently with a 6 month wait for driving tests, most student are waiting much longer than 28 days. I feel this is a change that will make little or no difference currently and should be considered for a later date. It will also put extra pressure on people to take the test earlier, especially when it limits the time required to pass.
To what extent do you agree or disagree that we should change the short notice cancellation period for car driving tests from 3 working days to 10 working days? I agree that the cancellation period should be extended to allow for less tests being wasted at short notice. In regards to my point above. In the current market its very unlikely any tests would be wasted. I would also welcome a return of admin fee to encourage those who cannot make the test receive a small refund to allow others to book. The problem with a 100% charge is that there is no incentive to cancel once you are within the 10 working day period.
To what extent do you agree or disagree that approved driving instructors should be required to display their certificate during the driving test?
I 100% agree with this decision. There should be no reason why an instructor would want to remove their certificate during the driving test.
To what extent do you agree or disagree that consumers would benefit from knowing how well, on average, a driving instructor’s pupils did when they took their driving tests?
What a great question - Not really! I can't possibly see how anyone within the profession can agree to this without knowing the full details of the proposals. My guess is the DVSA are looking to publish our trigger points. If you want to know more take a look at this blog
I've also wrote a full blog on Pass Rates and why these can be problematic to publish. There are pro's and con's but it may open up a can of worms, especially for students who are struggling to learn. Its very easy for instructors to chose who they want to teach.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the removal of the need for the eyesight test to be conducted in good daylight? I agree with this change. I will be writing a further blog on the proposals and what to expect.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with DVSA having the flexibility to conduct the eyesight test by means other than reading the number plate attached to the vehicle? I strongly agree with the required testing and any changes should be done across a wide spectrum. It has long been suggested that that candidates should take an eyesight test leading up to the practical driving test. Whether this means out of hours testing remains to be seen.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the introduction of a digital pass certificate for the driving test? I strongly agree.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the introduction of a digital pass certificate for the theory test? I strongly agree. There are only benefits.