Driving Theory Test To Be Overhauled With New Video Section
The UK’s driving theory test will soon be overhauled with the introduction of a new video segment. It’s designed to be more accessible for candidates with reading and learning difficulties…
Overhauling The Theory Test
The theory component of the UK driving test is due to be overhauled in order to make it more accessible. Short and silent video clips will be added and will be followed by three questions each. It’s believed this format will be more appropriate for candidates with reading or learning difficulties. As it stands, would-be drivers are forced to read a case study and then answer five questions. The new videos will depict computer-generated road situations from a driver’s perspective. These can range from country roads to busy high streets and can be viewed as many times and the candidate likes.
Questions that follow the video clips will be multiple choice; being designed to test a candidate’s capacity to determine when a scenario is potentially hazardous and for what reasons. Examples provided by the government include “why should the driver on the side road look out for motorcyclists at junctions?” and why are motorcyclists considered vulnerable road users?”.
Changes to the theory test will go live on April 14th this year. They follow other revisions to the driving test, including a sat-nav component in the practical and learners being allowed on motorways. The rest of the theory component, however, will remain as it always has; consisting of 50 questions and a hazard perception video segment.
‘Driving Is Life-Changing’
Mark Winn, DVSA chief driving examiner, explained why the changes had been made. He said, “being able to drive can be life-changing and the DVSA is committed to helping everyone access the opportunities driving can offer”. He added, “we have worked closely with road safety experts and learners to create a theory test which fully tests a candidate’s knowledge of the rules of the road and is more accessible”.
John Rogers, speaking for Disability Driving Instructors, welcomed the changes. He said, “having to go back and forth between the text in the written scenario and the written questions and answers was a big obstacle to understanding what was required”. He continued, “video scenarios should prove much easier to follow and the questions will hopefully appear more relevant”.
Over the past ten years, 17 million people have taken the driving theory test. Currently, the pass rate stands at around 47%. This is actually the lowest figure on record, having fallen by around 18% in a decade. As a result, a number of people have been caught attempting to cheat with the use of ear devices; often finding themselves in court and faced with fines consisting of thousands of pounds.
The Hardest Places In The World To Pass A Driving Test – https://autoserveclub.co.uk/blog/hardest-places-pass-driving-test/
Have Kids? You’re Driving 1,648 Miles More Annually – https://autoserve.co.uk/motoring-news/parents-drive-1648-miles/
