Vocational qualifications for at-work drivers proposed

The main focus of the paper was proposals to reform the way people learn to drive and how they are tested. However, a section of the paper also suggested ways in which road safety could be improved through "post-test" training and standards for anyone driving for work.

The Department for Transport (DfT) said improving road safety among work-drivers was a "priority" as one third of traffic accidents involved people driving for work. It added that employers were concerned that driving standards among new employees were "not good enough."

"The basic licence standard should reflect employers' needs better," said the consultation paper. "Employers want their drivers to be safe, to protect their assets and minimise insurance costs.

"We want to support employers who train their drivers, perhaps through accrediting training from commercial providers and in-house trainers."

The DfT went on to say that it wanted to develop a "nationally recognised vocational qualification" for people driving for work, based on the requirements of employers.

"This will show employers, insurers and others that a driver has reached a particular standard. The qualification could be offered through further education colleges and other routes. It might serve as a module within other vocational qualifications."

The Government said it would pilot various ideas with employers and the insurance industry over the next five years and then review its options, including the possible introduction of a vocational driving element into the standard pre-test.

Foundation course

The thrust of today's proposals, announced by Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly, will be tackling the high accident rate among young drivers.

An improved driving test, which will require candidates to demonstrate "independent driving skills" and a "clear understanding of different situations on the roads," will be introduced.

In addition, a foundation course in safe road use for under 17-year-olds will be piloted in schools and colleges in Scotland from this autumn. This will lead to a qualification that will be available across Britain.

The Government also wants to see a more focused and thorough learning process for candidates which looks not just at vehicle control, but also the wider skills needed to be a safe driver, from driving in difficult conditions - at night or in poor weather - to learning to predict and respond to other road users' intentions.

In addition there could be new opportunities to take extra training after the test and there will also be a review of driving instructor training and testing.

The consultation is set to run until September 8. The consultation paper can be viewed/downloaded from a special website set up by the Driving Standards Agency - learningtodrive.dsa.gov.uk.