Older driver skills scheme
A confidential and enjoyable appraisal of driving skills for older motorists. It takes one-and-a-half hours.
Why should you have your driving appraised?
Older motorists have a wealth of experience, confidence and tolerance. However, sight, hearing, reaction time and judgement of speed and distance may not be as sharp as it once was. Fragility increases with age, so injuries tend to be more serious and recovery takes much longer. Casualty rates do increase for car drivers aged over about 65, and the fatality rate increases significantly.
In its Road Safety Strategy, the Government said:
‘Our aim is to find ways of helping older people to drive safely for as long as they are fit to do so, rather than taking measures to prevent them from driving at all’.
This perfectly reflects the aims of our older driver appraisal scheme.
Who should attend?
People who have been driving for a number of years and who want to update their skills or gain confidence. Drivers recovering from illness or injury and those advised to attend on health grounds. Also, people returning to driving or those who are finding it difficult to adapt to a new vehicle.
What does the appraisal offer?
It is not a test, it is an informal, confidential appraisal. The aim is to offer help and advice, which will enable that person to continue driving – with improved safety. General ability is assessed but the appraisal can be adapted to investigate a particular concern. The appraisal also includes an eyesight check.
Following the practical drive, each person is given a comprehensive de-brief, when any concerns and remedial actions are discussed. A detailed report is also prepared and sent to the person's home.
We are governed by the Data Protection Act and do not pass details of the appraisal to any third party unless the person taking the appraisal specifically requests us to do so.
Where is the appraisal held?
The appraisal is delivered from the person’s home, using their own car. Road safety officers deliver manage the scheme with the appraisals delivered by specially trained Driving Standards Agency (DSA) Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs), who have a good understanding of the needs of older drivers.
How much does it cost?
The appraisal costs just £25 and takes one-and-a-half hours.
How to book the appraisal
If you would like to book an appraisal, you can book online via the Hantsweb shop:
Hantsweb Shop - Road Safety
Or alternatively contact the road safety team for further information:
Telephone: 01962 874600
Email road safety team