The driving test trial: summary of Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) findings

The DVSA trialled a number of changes to the driving test with the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) between 2015 and 2016.The changes are designed to make sure new drivers are prepared for driving on their own, and not just passing the driving test – and the new test will come into force in December 2017.

The changes include replacing the ‘Show me’ and ‘tell me’ question at the beginning of the test, with a ‘Tell me’ question at the beginning of the test and a ‘show me’ question on the move.

In addition, the 10 minutes independent driving using traffic signs or verbal directions was replaced with 20 minutes independent driving using a satnav or traffic signs.

Another change involves replacing current manoeuvres such as ‘reverse around a corner’ with more real life scenarios, such as driving into and reversing out of a parking bay.

Views and opinions of the new test were almost all positive from the ADIs, test passers and supervising drivers who participated in the trials. The new test was perceived as relevant to ‘real world driving, and providing a good basis for independent driving and decision making.

When compared with those who have just passed the existing test, those passing the new test had slightly more insight into their (relatively low) level of skill, and slightly more confidence that they would be a good, safe driver.

Those who passed the new test also had more confidence that they could use a sat nav safely while driving.