To require a person to produce and certificate before booking a test would require a paper booking system. The DSA along with all government agencies and departments are taking part the ‘digital by default’ programme which encourages members of the public to use the internet to book and pay for services. Under the proposals outlined in this Bill it would be back to paper applications for driving tests, thus requiring more personal and therefore driving up costs.
It’s noted that the DfT currently have a paper out on reducing the cost of motoring and this Bill will for a minority add further expense.
Qualified instructors would be more than happy to take a potential candidate for a test out for a number of lessons to see if they are at the required standard, but that's what the DSA currently do on a driving test, if they are not at the required standard they don't get a licence. Those that are deemed good enough get their full licence, it's these that are currently over represented in accident figures, so is the problem with the driving test?
I quote from your web site on this subject;
“which proposes that a book of competencies needs to be signed off by an accredited instructor before you are allowed to book the test. This would be moderated by a group of advanced instructors to address fraud. I agree.”
DSA only have approved driving instructors, the DSA have no advanced instructors? Are you aware of this, or would he be referring to an observer from the Institute of Advanced Motorists. I refer to them as observers as they are not allowed to instruct for money or monies worth unless they are on the register of approved in instructors held by the DSA. (I should add these are referred to as hobbists from within the profession)