Driving test changes herald more HGVs

Driving test changes proposed by the government represent the biggest shake up to new driver regulation in a generation.

Proposals by the government include a ‘cashback’ – refundable deposit returned to the driver if they pass. The idea is to encourage learner drivers to take their test only when they are ready. At present only about one in five driving tests result in a first time pass.

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said of the proposals: "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 consultation also sets out proposals to introduce more driving test appointment times at weekends and evenings.

Increasing the number of lorry drivers

The consultation will also look at increasing the number of HGV drivers. The Department for Transport hopes to streamline the application process to allow HGV drivers to obtain their licence and start work sooner.

You can have your say on the proposed changes at www.gov.uk/government/consultations

The prospect of more heavy lorries on British roads will alarm cyclists. While we endlessly deliberate over reducing the disproportionate danger posed by HGVs, other European countries have taken radical and rationale action.

As described this week in the Guardian, the Swedish city of Gothenburg uses the Stadsleveransen system to pool deliveries for 500 shops – reducing shopping centre traffic and freeing up streets for pedestrians and cyclists. Hauliers leave their cargo at a freight terminal from where Stadsleveransen’s fleet of two electric cars and cargo bikes complete the final mile.

British cities lag far behind this progressive solution. In London as elsewhere, it remains a matter of fire fighting. London Assembly members earlier this month unanimously agreed a motion urging the mayor to work with Government and commercial partners to reduce the number of cyclist collisions with lorries. Many hope this will lead to a peak time ban on HGVs.

Andrew Boff, who seconded the motion said:“Seven out of the eight cycling deaths this year have been caused by collisions with an HGV. This is a shocking statistic and a clear indication that action is needed.”

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Driving test changes - Try your hand at the driving theory test

Would you pass the driving theory test if you sat it today? Have a go at the following 12 sample multiple choice questions and find out.

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Driving theory test

If you wish to drive a car or ride a motorcycle on the roads, you will need to pass the driving theory test before you book either your practical driving test or the motorcycle practical test.

Remember, you need to have a provisional driving licence in order to take your driving theory test.

There are two parts to the driving theory test, both taken on the same day. First you have to sit a multiple choice exam ( a sample of which you can have a go at above). Next, there is a hazard perception test - the questions and format of the hazard perception test vary depending on what kind of vehicle you want to drive. You need to pass both to pass the theory test.