Amazingly, the formal driving test has been in place since 1935 – and has changed very little over the years, with the biggest shake-up being the introduction of the written theory test back in 1996. But this could all be about to change.
This year, the UK government trials new driving test rules which could change Britain’s road rules completely. At the Car Loan Warehouse, we’re making it our mission to keep new and experienced drivers in the loop on what’s in store for the practical driving test – and what it could mean for the future of Britain’s roads.
The plans surrounding the revision are designed to update the practical driving test with advancements in technology, such as driverless cars and the use of Sat-Nav – as well as reviewing the relevance of certain manoeuvres. On top of that, but some Ministers are also looking to increase the age that older drivers must declare they’re fit to drive – from 70 to 75.
The Art of Navigation
Currently, the government is trialling the new test at 32 test centres around the country, with learner drivers having the choice to take either the trial test or the current one. In the new trial test, examiners pre-programme a Sat-Nav for the first 20 minutes out on the road, where the learner driver will be observed on how well they follow the instructions and whether they spend too much time looking at the Sat-Nav whilst driving. This is a major advancement in practical driving test rules, as traditionally instruction would only be given by the examiner.
Other aspects under scrutiny for the practical driving test rules are the manoeuvres involved. Currently, learner drivers are required to carry out a three-point turn, reverse around a corner or reverse park in a parallel space. However, there are rumours that the three-point turn and corner reverse will be replaced by more commonplace manoeuvres like reversing out of a parking bay.
They may also look at asking the vehicle safety questions during the test rather than beforehand, and asking drivers to use in-car switches like screen heaters whilst driving – in a bid to update the road rules British drivers live by.
Given the length of time since this test has been reviewed, as well as the increased use of technology in our cars, it isn’t surprising that we may see changes in the new driving test rules used to assess learner drivers – but nothing will be confirmed until the end of the trial later in the year.
If you’re ready to take the next step and buy your first car, the Car Loan Warehouse team are here to give you a helping hand and get you out on the road as soon as possible. We have a range of flexible finance deals to suit any model and budget – so apply now or head to our car finance calculator now for an instant quote.
