This paper describes parts of a TRL research project commissioned by Road Safety Division, DETR, to review the British practical driving test and recommend improvements if any are needed. It outlines the car driver licensing system in Great Britain and discusses the objectives and functions of the practical driving test within this system. The test as it was before May 1999 is described, and possible improvements examined. The paper outlines the changes that were made to the test in May 1999 based on early findings from the review, and describes some examples of on-going research into potential longer term developments of the driving test.
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