Sat-nav skills to replace part of driving test

Friday 26 January 2018

The practical driving test is changing with some aspects, like reversing around a corner being scrapped.

The part of the test where learner drivers have to follow their instructors directions independently is also going, to be replaced by a twenty minute drive, guided by a satellite navigation system.

The changes will be made from April, and will broadly mirror those recently introduced in the UK.

Guernsey's Driver and Vehicle Licensing (DVL) says it regularly reviews the content of the island's practical driving test to ensure drivers are "best prepared for driving on the public highway".

The changes will be introduced in phases with the first taking effect from Monday 9 April when the "Turn in the Road" and the "Reverse around a corner" manoeuvres will be replaced by a "Drive in/Reverse out" or "Reverse in/Drive out" of a parking space and a "Positional Stop on the right hand side of the road" move instead. As part of the positional stop, drivers will have to reverse for two car lengths before resuming normal driving.

Learner drivers will also be asked one safety question while the vehicle is in motion such as “show me how you would set the demister”. This is currently carried out while stationary at the start of the test.  One other ‘tell me’ question will be asked at the start of the test while the vehicle is parked.

From Monday 10 September the sat-nav part of the test will be introduced. Further details on this change will be released nearer the time.

The practical test duration will remain at 40 minutes overall with a minimum 30 minutes "wheels turning requirement", as in line with the UK.

The "Parallel Park" and "Emergency Stop" are remaining parts of the practical driving test.