MOTORING experts have warned the driving test in its current format does not assess people's ability behind the wheel on country roads and other high risk situations.
The driving exam celebrates its 80th birthday today (MON) but the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) argues the current framework does not adequately prepare younger people for the road.
Modern tests currently do not include any assessment of a driver's ability to cope safely with country roads, poor weather or night time driving.
The IAM said the situations represent the biggest 'risk factors in the first six months' after someone has ripped up their L-plates and can drive alone.
Neil Greig, IAM director of policy and research, said: "The driving test needs to become a much more integrated part of a graduated licensing system that picks up on best practice from around the world.
"For instance, Austria has a 'second phase' licensing system, where young drivers come back in the first 12 months after the test for further interventions to examine attitude changes and skills."
The IAM note that road accidents remain the biggest killer of young people across Britain -- higher than both alcohol and drugs.
Aberdeenshire is one areas in Scotland most commonly affected by fatal road accidents, with a number of crashes being recorded in recent years.
However, Mr Greig noted that the number of young male driver casualties dropped by a third in in Austria as a result of further testing within the first year of passing the exam.
He added: "The driving test today does test a driver's ability to a very high level, but it has fallen behind what is urgently needed today in 2015. This must be addressed as a matter of urgency by the next government."
Retired F1 star David Coulthard fronted a TV campaign in 2013 which aimed to draw attention to the dangers of driving on country roads.
The Scot said rural driving 'comes with its own unique set of challenges' and highlighted the fact that even the best drivers have adjust their approach in certain circumstances.
The driving exam was first held on a voluntary basis beginning on 16 March 1935. However, 1 June 1935 that it became compulsory.
However, the biggest developments in the driving test have only come into effect in the past two decades.
In 1996 a theory test was added to the practical element, while from 2002 learners also had to pass a hazard perception exam.
Among the changes the IAM have suggested include making road safety education part of the national curriculum and mandatory minimum learning periods prior to taking the practical rest.
They also argue for limits on peer passengers for period after the test is passed, along with the inclusion of high-speed roads testing in the exam itself.
Mr Greig also said that the driving test needed to take into account whether the influence of new technology and driver aids; such as satellite navigation and cradle-held mobile phones used as navigation devices, should play a part in a 21st century driving test.
At present the Driver Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA) are reviewing the way the practical exam could be administered.
They will be looking at the possibility of extending the independent driving section of the test, and asking candidates to follow directions using satellite navigation systems.
Other changes could see the replacement of some manoeuvres such as a reverse around a corner with more realistic everyday turns such as reversing out of a parking bay.
A DVSA spokesman said: "We are carrying out initial research to explore how the driving test could better reflect real life driving. Any future changes to the test would be subject to full public consultation."
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