Driving theory forward

We continue to keep the theory test under review to encourage new drivers and riders to improve their knowledge and understanding of driving theory and help them stay safe on the road.

New case study

The initial introduction of case studies into the theory test in September 2009 was accomplished with no significant change to the pass rate. Having established the concept, we have developed a new case study to assess further candidates’ understanding as well as their knowledge of the theoretical topics of driving, which was introduced in September last year.

New way of learning

From January 2012 the multiple choice part of the driving theory test will be made up of questions which are no longer published in learning materials. The reason behind the move is to stop candidates from being tempted to simply memorise theory test questions and answers and learn by rote.

So we have published new learning materials with a lot more content and references to source material to help candidates prepare for the test and life on the road. The materials still include questions and answers covering all topic areas for revision purposes and give explanations for every revision question, to help candidates fully understand the answer.

No changes are being made to the format of the theory test, the time allowed or the pass mark. Provided candidates revise sufficiently, there should be no difficulty with the test.

New HPT clips

We are looking at re-freshing the hazard perception part of the test using computer generated imagery where possible. Whilst there is nothing wrong with our HPT clips, they are ten years old and look a bit dated. And with modern technology moving on apace we need to keep up-to-date to make sure the test is taken seriously - especially by teenagers who are a whiz on computers and impressed by how real computer imagery can look these days.

Research has shown that using hazard perception in a test is a valuable tool in preparing learner drivers to be on the look out for obstacles or situations where they may have to take some form of action. And that in turn prepares them for life behind the wheel.

Computer images are likely to be cheaper and safer to produce than having a cameraman trying to film traffic in tricky situations. We are hoping that the re-fresh will be achieved by September 2013.

New appointment confirmation

In December we changed the way candidates receive confirmation of their theory test booking by sending confirmation by email rather than a letter by post. By making the change we have increased efficiency in the booking process, which will mean that candidates will get their confirmations more quickly and we will realise financial savings. The change also brings the theory test booking process in line with that of the practical test.

Customers booking over the phone who don’t have an email address will still receive a postal confirmation. Candidates will not have to take either the letter or the email confirmation to the theory test centre, just their licence.

New contract

And last but definitely not least, we need to re-let the contract to deliver the driving theory test. The theory test has been outsourced since its introduction and the current contract - with Pearson Vue - expires in September 2014. Whilst this seems a long time off, the process for re-letting such an important contract is thorough long and detailed. The contract will come into force in September 2014, but we aim to award it at least 15 months ahead of that date, to allow a sufficient implementation period and ensure a seamless service for candidates who will not be affected by this process.

The re-tender provides us with an opportunity to negotiate an adaptable and flexible contract which can accommodate the technological and business changes needed to take us through to 2024. The formal tender process should begin in March with the aim of awarding the contract by May 2013.