Driving test shake-up to drop three-point turn
Reversing around a corner and the three-point turn could be dropped from the practical driving test in the biggest shake-up in 20 years, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has confirmed.
Instead, learners may be asked to reverse out of a parking bay or pull up on the left or right of the road before re-joining the flow of traffic.
Learner drivers may also be asked one of two safety questions while driving rather than at the start. This could involve requiring the candidate to show how they would turn on the rear windscreen heater while driving.
A DVSA spokesman said: "We are carrying out initial research to explore how the driving test could better reflect real-life driving. Any future changes to the test would be subject to full public consultation."
However, AA president Edmund King, was sceptical about the proposed changes. He said: "It is right that the driving test should evolve to reflect real life on the streets and a longer free driving section will make it a better test.
"In our view a three-point turn is still an important manoeuvre for getting out of cul de sacs, dead ends and often car parks."
Alex Todd Brand Manager at BoxyMo commented "The 'Three point turn' demonstrates use of gears, clutch, accelerator, together with observation and judgment. Successful completion demonstrates a reasonable level of competence by the driver."
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