Driving Simulation Tool

Driving tests are conducted by DVSA trained Driving Examiners in accordance with the provisions of the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) Regulations. The object of the test is to ensure that the candidate is well grounded in the basic principles of safe driving and is sufficiently practised in them to be able to show, at the time of the test, that they are a competent and considerate driver and are not a source of danger to themselves or to other road users. A Driving Examiner needs to conduct the practical driving test and assess the level of driving displayed by the learner driver, ensuring they reach the required standard and accurately complete test reports. Following successful recruitment of the Driving Examiner, a residential training course is held face to face in one of 10 locations across the country. The course lasts approximately 6 weeks with classroom elements and in-car exercises on public roads. The in-car exercises are designed to support the New Entrant Driving Examiner in conducting a practical driving test in line with the regulations. At the end of the course there is an exam for the Driving Examiner which is either pass or fail. Failure to pass the exam may result in termination of employment. Analysis has shown that there are barriers in recruiting, training, and retaining Driving Examiners with factors such as prolonged periods away from their family and the pressure of an intensive pass/fail exam being discussed. A driving test simulator may create an opportunity to reduce the time New Entrant Driving Examiners spend away from their home. This may aid our internal Driving Examiner training as a driving simulator can be run in different locations instead of the 10 current driver training centres. It is believed that a driving simulator will be able to assist in testing the abilities of New Entrant Driving Examiners as practical elements of the course could be done in a simulated, no risk environment. A prototype needs to be built first, so Learning & Development can assess its suitability as an internal training tool and whether there are other potential uses for it within DVSA.