uSwitch.com: Plans to shake up driving tests

Ashton Berkhauer, insurance expert at uSwitch.com, the independent online price comparison and switching service, comments on the Transport Secretary's plans to shake up driving tests: "We fully support Ruth Kelly's plans to introduce tougher driving tests which should in turn reduce the number of fatalities among young drivers. While you can't put a price on life, this scheme might have financial implications for new drivers. They are currently forking out an average of £1,337 to learn to drive, taking around 42 lessons for up to £27 each. Already this year, these costs have been pushed up by the DSA's (Driving Standard Authority's) 12.3% increase to the cost of practical and theory tests. Essentially, it seems the changes proposed could simply push these costs up further - is this really the answer to young driver fatalities?

"The new initiative promises to offer young drivers a reduction on their car insurance costs. On average, the under 21s currently pay £1,619 for insurance, so a significant discount on their premiums could counteract the increased cost of learning. New drivers already have the option to take an additional driving test called the Pass Plus. This is taken by almost 200,000 new drivers, costing £171 each but just 15 insurance providers recognise this qualification. The reductions offered are not standardised and are honoured for just one year after completion. It will be interesting to see if this test is scrapped when the proposed changes come into effect.

"Going forward, we hope that the insurance industry gets fully behind this initiative and supports the government by offering reasonable discounts for those who pass. The new test should improve the standard of new drivers on the road, reduce the number of accidents and subsequently lead to cheaper insurance - in addition to the discounts offered. This will also ensure that young drivers aren't limited to just one or two providers that ‘genuinely' support the scheme and they will still be able to shop around all providers.

"The majority of learners - 58% - are aged between 17-21 and these youngsters are typically cash strapped. If the cost of learning to drive continues to spiral out of their budget, we could see more young drivers hitting the road without a licence or insurance. Ultimately, this could see an increase in road fatalities and insurance premiums being pushed up across the board."