Driving Test Three-Point Turn Could Be Axed

This week we received some news that is said to be the biggest shakeup of the driving test in 20 years. In an attempt to ‘better reflect real life driving’, the famous three-point turn is reported to be scrapped and replaced with more practical manoeuvres, such as reversing out of a parking space and rejoining a flow of traffic. Learners will also be asked to follow directions using a Sat Nav as part of the revised driving test. Trials are due to be carried out to test this idea using 1000 learner drivers across the UK. The current independent driving section of the driving test will be extended from 10 minutes to 20 minutes (half of the driving test) and participants will be asked to use a Sat Nav instead of road signs. But is this a positive move for learner drivers? Maybe not, it certainly isn’t an easy option but it is a step forward in ensuring that learner drivers expand their learning to make sure they have the skills to drive after the test. Using a Sat Nav is a key element in driving nowadays and although it is renowned for frustrating drivers, it is still a vital tool that comes with having a car and a driving licence. RAC Foundation director Stephen Glaister said: ‘We all rely on our satnavs but they are not infallible and it is when they have led us down a dead end that we need to know how to do a three-point turn. It’s fine to add some aspects to the test but we should be cautious about removing the basics.’ Let us know your views on this matter. Are you a learner driver? How will this affect you? Or how will driving instructors make room for enough Sat Nav practice in driving lessons?