Learner drivers who pass their test the first time round could get money back, if a new proposal from the Department for Transport is passed.
It’s hoped that incentivising learners to brush up on their skills could make them safer on the road and less likely to be involved in an accident in the first few months after they pass their exam.
The Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) currently conducts around 1.5 million practical tests a year, but only 21 per cent of learner drivers pass on their first attempt.
Around 53 per cent of learner drivers fail their practical exam, while the remaining 26 per cent pass on their second attempt at least.
Under the Department for Transport’s proposal, the fee for the test could be reduced, while learners will also be required to pay a deposit, which they would receive back if they pass first time.
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.”
The proposals also suggest the introduction of more flexible time slots, such as weekend and evening sessions, in order to reduce delays, or to change service providers for better value for money.
Carly Brookfield, chief executive of the Driving Instructors Association, said: “There are some bold suggestions in this consultation and we do have to think more boldly about how to get more young people, and drivers generally, to properly evaluate the responsibility and risk of driving.
“If there are motivational tools we can use to achieve that aim and better prepared novice drivers as a result, then let's have a proper and open minded debate about what those tools could be.”
A consultation currently examining the Department for Transport’s proposals will officially close on January 8th, and the government will confirm its response soon after.
