Driving Instructors Branch of Unite the Union November 2013 | Page 18

FILMING YOUR CHECKTEST

The issue of recording on tests has always troubled DSA. Whilst it is more than happy to allow the TV cameras in, and perhaps that’s because some examiners want to be famous? It (DSA) does not, on any grounds, want you or your pupil recording a driving test.

The very over used and often quoted data protection rules just don’t allow it apparently.

In fact the data protection act does not forbid it, providing certain criteria is met.

Basically, you cannot capture a person’s image or voice without their permission. The problem with filming a driving test is that even if you position the camera away from the examiner, for example out of the windscreen or rear window, you would still be recording voice. So unless the examiner is happy for that to happen,

unfortunately it’s a no no.

But a checktest is different. You can

position the camera to avoid capturing

the examiner sat in the back, and until

the lesson is ended they don’t speak,

so you can’t record their voice.

So can you film your own checktest?

Of course you can if you follow these

points:

1)Ensure camera/s do not capture

the image of anyone sat in the rear seats.

2)Do not turn camera on until examiner is in the car and has

introduced him/herself to the pupil.

3)You need your pupil’s permission to record their image or voice

4)Don’t fiddle with camera during the test

5)Turn it off when you end the lesson and before the examiner starts

the debrief

You can of course ask the examiner for permission to audio record the debrief, but they are entitled to refuse.