From October 4th 2010 the
practical driving test will include a section of independent driving. Once a
learner has become fully qualified, statistics show the biggest hurdle to
overcome is to deal with driving on their own. The idea behind the independent
section in the driving test is whilst learning to drive, your instructor will
encourage the use of road signs to aid in navigation. This will also encourage
the learner to look ahead at other road signs which in turn will make a safer
driver.
During the driving test,
the examiner will ask you to park up. He or she will then explain that about 10
minutes of independent driving will be required. The examiner will provide you
with either a series of direction, will ask you to follow road signs or it may
be a combination of both. The examiner may also show you a diagram to help
explain where you are going.
As in life, the most
experienced of drivers can take a wrong turn. The test isn't an assessment of
your navigation skills, so you will not fail if you go the wrong way. This part
of the test is to assess if you can drive 'independently' and safely. As with
the test in its current form, the only time you may fail is if you commit a
driving fault. If you do happen to go off the independent driving route, the
examiner will provide you with directions to get you back on route and continue
with your independent driving. If during the independent part of your test,
road signs are obscured or difficult to see, the examiner will provide you with
directions until the next road sign becomes visible. Satellite navigation
systems are not permitted during the driving test