Category B (passenger car) driver licensing in CIECA member countries

Transcription

1 Category B (passenger car) driver licensing in CIECA member countries Overview of the category B licensing process (training, testing & probationary licensing) for novice drivers in CIECA member countries 2010

2 Table of content Table of content... 2 Introduction... 4 Some interesting facts... 6 AUSTRIA... 7 BELGIUM... 9 BULGARIA CROATIA CYPRUS CZECH REPUBLIC DENMARK DUBAI (UAE) ESTONIA FINLAND FRANCE GERMANY GREAT BRITAIN GREECE HUNGARY ICELAND IRELAND KOSOVO

3 LATVIA LITHUANIA LUXEMBOURG MALTA MONACO NETHERLANDS NEW ZEALAND NORTHERN IRELAND NORWAY POLAND PORTUGAL QUEBEC (CANADA) SLOVAKIA SLOVENIA SPAIN SWEDEN SWITZERLAND TUNISIA VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA

4 Introduction Every few years, CIECA updates its Guide on Driver Licensing. The last version, in CD-Rom format, was published in Data collection is underway for the next version which will be made available on CIECA s website at Based on the data collected so far, CIECA is pleased to present in this report an overview of the category B (passenger) car licensing process in 31 countries worldwide. This document provides information on the training, testing and probationary licensing systems in these countries, with a focus on: - Minimum age for learning to drive - Provisional licensing - Existence of an official curriculum - Options for driver training - Accompanied driving programmes, if allowed - Obligatory attendance of practical /theory driving school lessons - Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours - Total average number of hours pre-test practice - Composition of the driving test (medical exam, first aid, theory and practical tests) - Age at which theory and practical tests can be taken - Pass rates for theory / practical tests - Minimum age for solo driving - Existence of a probationary period - Length of probationary period - Conditions of probationary period - Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period 4

5 - Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers The full updated Guide on Driver Licensing is expected to be published by the end of For more information or feedback, please contact Daniel Vandenberghe at the CIECA office in Brussels at 5

6 Some interesting facts - Within the European Union, there are 4 countries which allow licensing (for solo driving) from 17 years old, as opposed to the norm of 18 years old. These countries are the United Kingdom, Ireland, Austria (L17 programme) and Hungary. Within Europe, Iceland also allows licensing from 17. GDL1 jurisdictions generally allow solo driving at a younger age than in Europe. For example, in New Zealand solo driving is possible already from the age of 15.5 years old. - Accompanied driving, as a means for a learner driver to practise before the practical test, is allowed in most countries, is the norm in several countries but is prohibited in a number of other countries, especially in Eastern Europe (where training in driving schools is the only option). - Solo driving is possible before taking/passing a practical driving test in Ireland and Belgium. This practice will come to an end in Ireland in June 2008 but is positively encouraged in Belgium. Over Belgian learner drivers took advantage of this option in There is no data available on the crash risk of these pre-test solo drivers. - Within the European Union, pass rates (at the first attempt) for the practical driving test range from 35% in Poland to over 85% in Austria and Slovakia. - Obligatory post-licence training for all novice drivers exists in Finland, Luxembourg, Austria, Estonia and Switzerland (within the first 1-3 years of solo driving). Slovenia will join this list in The content varies from country to country but generally involves on-road feedback drives, group discussion and track-based experiences. - At least 17 EU member states have introduced probationary periods for novice drivers, with restrictions / tighter conditions during the 1-3 year period of solo driving after passing the practical test. - The conditions imposed on novice drivers in the probationary period vary from country to country and include: - Zero or low BAC2 levels (e.g. Austria, Germany, Slovenia) - Easier withdrawal of the licence in the event of certain traffic offences, e.g. a lower demerit point threshold, in addition to extension of the probationary period - Improvement courses for novice driver offenders (e.g. Austria, Germany) - Speed restrictions (e.g. Lithuania) - Restrictions on engine power (e.g. Victoria [Australia] and Croatia) - vice driver display-plates (e.g. France) - Mandatory accompaniment by an older person during night time hours (e.g. Croatia) - Prohibition to drive during night time hours or on weekends (several GDL jurisdictions) - Restrictions on carrying peer-age passengers (many GDL jurisdictions) - n-use of mobile phones while driving (e.g. Victoria, [Australia]) - Mandatory accompaniment during the first 3 months after licensing (Israel). 1 Graduated Driver Licensing, such as in rth America and Australasia. 2 Blood Alcohol Content. 6

7 AUSTRIA Minimum age for learning to drive 17.5 (or 16 for L17 programme) Provisional licence required for pre-test practice/training Official curriculum (a regulation of the ministry of transport in combination with a curriculum for theoretical and practical training from t he Austrian driving school association) Options for driver training Either standard driving school-based training (L18) or the L17 programme. L17 is a combined driving school and accompanied driving programme, starting with obligatory practical and theory lessons in driving school and continuing with a minimum of 3000 km s accompanied driving. On 3 occasions, after each 1000 of the 3000 kms, the learner and accompanying person returns to the driving school for short theory and practical lessons. L17 learners can start training at 16 and can take the test and drive solo from the age of 17 instead of the normal 18. Accompanied driving allowed?, as part of L17 programme (~20% of learner drivers) or L18 in combination with driving lessons (rarely used) Requirements for accompanying person Minimum age 25, 3 years driving experience, special relationship to the learner (e.g. parents), no major violation against traffic rules in last 3 years Obligatory attendance of practical driving school lessons (12 lessons x 50 minutes) Obligatory attendance of theory lessons (32 lessons x 50 minutes) Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours Minimum 10 hours (12 lessons x 50 minutes) Total average number of hours pre-test practice At least 10 hours for standard approach (L18) and ~3500 kms for L17 (= ~70 hours, based on sample in 2006) Possibility of (legally) driving solo before passing the driving test Test includes Theory and Practical test Position of theory test End of training, before the practical test Age at which theory test can be taken 18 (17 for L17 learners) Pass rate 1 st time at theory test 85% (based on sample, 2006) Age at which practical test can be taken 18 (17 for L17 learners) Pass rate 1 st time at practical test 95% (L17) and 86% (L18) based on sample, 2006 Minimum age for solo driving 17 (L17 programme) Probationary period Length of probationary period 2 years Conditions of probationary period Zero alcohol tolerance (0.1 mg/l) Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period Participation in novice driver offender course for certain offences & probationary period extended Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers = 1 feedback drive with driving instructor, including discussion + 1 day track training and psychological group discussio n. All within the 1 st year after passing the test. D. Estimated average cost per novice driver for licensing process ~1550 EUR E. Miscellaneous F. General summary of licensing process Learners can either follow driving school training or obtain a licence already from the age o f 17 by following the L17 programme of driving school training km accompanied driving L17 =~20% of learners). Following the test, which has a very high pass rate, there is a probationary p eriod and obligatory multi-phase training for novice drivers. 7

8 G. For more information, please refer to the following sources: H. Contact person Quality control 09/10/2009 8

9 BELGIUM Minimum age for learning to drive 17 (Formula n.1) or 18 (Formula n. 2) Provisional licence required for pre-test practice/training : either a 36 M licence valid for 36 months according to Formula n. 1 below, or an 18 M licence for Formula n. 2 Official curriculum Options for driver training Accompanied driving allowed? Requirements for accompanying person Obligatory attendance of practical driving school lessons Obligatory attendance of theory lessons Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours Total average number of hours pre-test practice Possibility of (legally) driving solo before passing the driving test Under a reform introduced in late 2006, the learner can choose between two formulas : Formula n.1 (36 M, with accompanying person, from the age of 17 years): accompanied driving on a provisional licence valid for 3 years (if the period expires, the learner must re-take the theory test). In addition to the accompanying person, one further passenger can be carried. Driving school training can also be followed. All driving schools must offer a 6-hour package, but in practice can naturally offer more depending on the needs of the learner. Formula n.2 (18 M without accompanying person, from 18 years old): after 20 hours of practical training the learner can drive alone for up to 18 months (on a provisional 18 M licence) before taking the practical driving test. Restrictions during this pre-test solo driving phase are: the 18 M learner can carry only one passenger who must be at least 24 and a category B licence holder and he/she cannot drive between 10pm and 6am on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays or during and before national holidays. (Formula n.1 above) Must have held a category B driving licence for at least 8 years and must be registered in a Belgian municipality Minimum 3 months learning period Unknown (according to Formula n. 2- minimum 18 years old). These learners can drive up to 18 months solo before having to take the practical driving test. Learners driving with this 18 M provisional licence who have their licences withdrawn due to traffic offences must wait until this licence elapses to be able to drive again and can afterwards only apply for a Formula n.1 provisional licence (accompanied driving) Test includes Theory test and Practical Test Position of theory test Before or during driving school training (Formula n. 2) and before accompanied driving (Formula n. 1) Age at which theory test can be taken 17 Pass rate at theory test (overall) 46,62% Age at which practical test can be taken 18 Pass rate at practical test (overall) 54,35% Minimum age for solo driving 18 Probationary period Length of probationary period Conditions of probationary period Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period 2 years See below Persons committing serious offences in this probationary period will be obliged to relinquish their licence and re-take the theory and practical test. 9

10 Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers D. Estimated average cost per novice driver for licensing process unknown E. Miscellaneous Candidates twice failing the practical driving test must undergo a minimum of 6 hours driving lessons in a driving school. F. General summary of licensing process According to training formulas n. 1 and 2 respectively, learners can either follow an accompanied driving route to the licenc e (from 17 years old, with a provisional licence valid for 3 years) or a driving school route (20 hours of practical lessons, then an 18 M provisional licence which allows the learner to drive solo for up to 18 months before taking the practical driving test, provided he/ she is at least 18). After passing the practical test at the age of at least 18, novice drivers enter a 2-year probationary period in which the theory and practical test will have to be re-passed if serious offences are committed. G. For more information, please refer to the following sources: (permis de conduire) and H. Contact person Jacques Quoirin at quoirin.j@goca.be Quality control Jacques Quoirin (10/11/2009) 10

11 BULGARIA Minimum age for learning to drive 17 years and 10 months Provisional licence required for pre-test practice/training Official curriculum (issued by Ministry of Education and Science) Options for driver training Driver training involves mandatory theory and practical lessons in a professional driving school. Accompanied driving practic e (e.g. with parents) is not allowed. There are a total of 40 theory lessons (45 minutes each), including 36 for the road traffic safety module and 4 for the module on technical vehicle aspects). Learners must take a minimum of 31 hours practical driving lessons based on a series of 27 sk ill sets. Accompanied driving allowed? Requirements for accompanying person - Obligatory attendance of practical driving school lessons (31 hours) Obligatory attendance of theory lessons (40 lessons of 45 min.) Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours Full training takes at least 22 days Total average number of hours pre-test practice At least 31 hours Possibility of (legally) driving solo before passing the driving test Test includes Theory test and practical test Position of theory test On completion of theory training Minimum age at which theory test can be taken 18 Pass rate at 1 st attempt theory test 47% Minimum age at which practical test can be taken 18 Pass rate at first attempt practical test 47% Minimum age for solo driving 18 Probationary period for novice drivers? Length of probationary period - Conditions of probationary period - Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period - Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers D. Estimated average cost per novice driver for licensing process ~250 EUR E. Miscellaneous There is an obligatory intermediate test built into the practical driving lessons, taken with the learner and the ins tructor about halfway through the course. There are also obligatory mock theory and practical tests at the driving school before being able to take the real th eory and practical tests for the category B licence. Test candidates normally take the theory and practical test in the same day. F. General summary of licensing process Bulgaria has a driving school only approach to category B driver training, with specific scripts for 40 obligatory theory les sons and at least 31 hours of practical driving lessons. The tests can be taken from 18 years old, after which the novice driver receives a full licence, i.e. he/she can drive solo under the same conditions as more experienced drivers. 11

12 G. For more information, please refer to the following sources: Please contact CIECA secretariat H. Contact person Quality control Rositsa Dancheva (05/11/07) 12

13 CROATIA Minimum age for learning to drive 17 years and 6 months Provisional licence required for pre-test practice/training Official curriculum There is a book of regulations with an official curriculum for category B training in Croatia issued by the Ministry of inter nal affairs Options for driver training All learners are obliged to follow 35 hours of practical driving lessons and 30 hours of theory lessons in a driving school Accompanied driving allowed? Requirements for accompanying person - Obligatory attendance of practical driving school lessons Obligatory attendance of theory lessons Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours There is a minimum learning period of 3 months for category B learners. And a minimum number of practical and theory lessons (see above) Total average number of hours pre-test practice Possibility of (legally) driving solo before passing the driving test Test includes A theory test, practical test and first aid test Position of theory test At the end of training Age at which theory test can be taken 17 years and 6 months Pass rate at 1 st attempt theory test 54% Age at which practical test can be taken 17 years and 6 months Pass rate at first attempt practical test 56% Minimum age for solo driving 18 Probationary period Length of probationary period Two years Conditions of probationary period Speed limitations, zero alcohol/ drugs tolerance, engine power limitation to 75kW, and an obligation to be accompanied by a person over 25 years old if driving between and Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period 68,12 EUR fine and 1 penalty point Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers D. Estimated average cost per novice driver for licensing process EUR E. Miscellaneous The special manoeuvres in the practical test are carried out on a driving ground away from traffic. F. General summary of licensing process Croatia s category B licensing process involves obligatory theory and practical training in a driving school and a theory, practical and first aid test to be able to drive solo from the age of 18. Thereafter follows, unusually for Europe, a strict probationary period resembling some GDL (graduated driver licensing) jurisdictions including night-time, speed and engine power restrictions. G. For more information, please refer to the following sources: H. Contact person Sinan Alispahic at alispahic@hak.hr Quality control Sinan Alispahic (14/11/07) 13

14 CYPRUS Minimum age for learning to drive 18 Provisional licence required for pre-test practice/training Official curriculum Options for driver training The system is liberal, and a mixture of accompanied driving and driving school instruction is the norm. Accompanied driving allowed? Requirements for accompanying person Driving licence holder for at least 2 years for the category licence that is accompanied Obligatory attendance of practical driving school lessons Obligatory attendance of theory lessons Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours ne Total average number of hours pre-test practice Unknown Possibility of (legally) driving solo before passing the driving test Test includes Theory test, eyesight check (with examiner) and practical test Position of theory test Theory test must be taken to accommodate provisional licence Age at which theory test can be taken At the age of 17 (for moped category only) and 18 for category B (the same test at this moment) Pass rate theory test 82% Age at which practical test can be taken 18 Pass rate practical test 58% Minimum age for solo driving 18 Probationary period Length of probationary period Conditions of probationary period Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers D. Estimated average cost per novice driver for licensing process 500 EUR E. Miscellaneous Learner drivers are not allowed to practise on motorways (exception if accompanied by driving instructor). F. General summary of licensing process The licensing process is a test led system where a mixture of practical driving school instruction and accompanied driving (private practise) is the norm. G. For more information, please refer to the following sources: H. Contact person pgerogiou@rtd.mcw.gov.cy Quality control 20/10/

15 CZECH REPUBLIC Minimum age for learning to drive 16.5 Provisional licence required for pre-test practice/training Official curriculum, law # 247 from the year 2000, issued by the Czech Parliament, based on suggestions from the Czech Transport Department Options for driver training All learners must follow obligatory theory and practical lessons in a driving school at the same time. Accompanied driving is not allowed. Prior to admission to the driving school, the learner must pass a medical test. Practical lessons (=28 lessons of 45 minutes in total) begin with 2 x 45 minute sessions on a driving ground away from public roads and traffic. There are also 2 x 45 minute sessions on practical vehicle maintenance and 4 x 45 minute lessons for first aid training. Accompanied driving allowed? Requirements for accompanying person - Obligatory attendance of practical driving school lessons (28 x 45 minutes driving + 6 x 45 minutes first aid and basic practical vehicle maintenance) Obligatory attendance of theory lessons (36 x 45 minutes in a group or 11 x 45 minute individually) Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours Minimum theory and practice in a driving school, as above Total average number of hours pre-test practice ~28 x 45 minutes = 21 hours Possibility of (legally) driving solo before passing the driving test Test includes A theory test, practical test and vehicle maintenance knowledge test. Position of theory test At the end of training, generally on the same day as the other two tests. Age at which theory test can be taken 18 Pass rate at 1 st attempt theory test 70% Age at which practical test can be taken 18 Pass rate at first attempt practical test 65% Minimum age for solo driving 18 Probationary period Length of probationary period --- Conditions of probationary period --- Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period --- Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers D. Estimated average cost per novice driver for licensing process CZK = 370 E. Miscellaneous The examiner must not be a former driver instructor. F. General summary of licensing process Obligatory practical and theory lessons must be followed, including first aid. Practical training begins on a driving ground away from traffic. After the practical, theory and vehicle knowledge tests, there is no probationary period and the novice driver, who must be at least 18 years old, has the same rights and obligations as more experienced drivers. G. For more information, please refer to the following sources: H. Contact person Pavel Nahodil: pavel.nahodil@mdcr.cz 15

16 Quality control 03/12/

17 DENMARK Minimum age for learning to drive 17.5 Provisional licence required for pre-test practice/training Official curriculum, the Police issues a curriculum (Undervisningsplan for køreuddannelsen til kategori B) Options for driver training All learner drivers must follow a highly structured step-by-step driving school-based training composed of 24 practical and 28 theory lessons. Practical training starts on an area away from public roads and becomes progressively more complex. Driving on a motorway and at night are compulsory parts of training. At the end of the practical training, all learners must follow a track-based course for driving on slippery and normal surfaces. Accompanied driving allowed? Requirements for accompanying person - Obligatory attendance of practical driving school lessons (24 lessons) Obligatory attendance of theory lessons (28 lessons) Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours 14 educational days / 18 hours practical and 22 hours theory Total average number of hours pre-test practice Unknown Possibility of (legally) driving solo before passing the driving test Test includes Theory test and practical test Position of theory test After training is completed Age at which theory test can be taken Can be taken before 18 Pass rate theory test 82% Age at which practical test can be taken 18 Pass rate practical test 60% Minimum age for solo driving 18 Probationary period Length of probationary period 3 years Conditions of probationary period See below Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period If the novice driver commits one of the following offences, the licence will be suspended: gross disregard of road safety exceeding the speed limit by more than 70 %. driving a vehicle with a total weight limit above 3.5 tons with overweight driving under the influence of alcohol (> 0.8 mg/l ) If the licence is suspended, the novice driver is required to do the following to regain the licence: 1) take new driving lessons (7 lessons in theory and 8 lessons in practical driver training of at least 45 minutes duration) and/or 17

18 2) attend a special course of alcohol and traffic (if the driver was under influence of alcohol), and 3) pass an additional driving test. Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers D. Estimated average cost per novice driver for licensing process EUR E. Miscellaneous A scientific study (Carstensen 2000) showed a 7% reduction in serious traffic accidents in the first year of solo driving, fo llowing the introduction of this measure. F. General summary of licensing process The Danish licensing system involves a series of mandatory, tightly interwoven theory and practical lessons in professional driving schools, followed by a theory and practical test and a 3-year probationary period for novice drivers. Some severe driving offences during this period will incur a strike on one's licence. This is logged in a central police database, and if one exceeds the maximum number of strike s, the licence is lost, but can ultimately be reacquired. The maximum number of strikes are two for novice drivers in their probationary period and three for ever ybody else. G. For more information, please refer to the following sources: H. Contact person Mads Mazanti Hansen at mmh001@politi.dk Quality control Mads Mazanti Hansen (09/10/2009) 18

19 DUBAI (UAE) Minimum age for learning to drive 18 Provisional licence required for pre-test practice/training Official curriculum (currently under development) Options for driver training Training only through 1 of 5 approved driving schools Accompanied driving allowed? Requirements for accompanying person N/A Obligatory attendance of practical driving school lessons Obligatory attendance of theory lessons Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours 20 hours Total average number of hours pre-test practice 27 hours Possibility of (legally) driving solo before passing the driving test ability for solo driving pre-test Test includes Theory test, eye sight test, practical driving test with examiner Position of theory test Prior to practical driving test Age at which theory test can be taken 18 Pass rate at 1 st attempt theory test Unknown Age at which practical test can be taken 18 Pass rate at first attempt practical test Under 20% Minimum age for solo driving 18 Probationary period 1 year licence issued if under 21 years Length of probationary period Until 21 years Conditions of probationary period Federal law reduces number of offences allowed before sanction is applied. Reduced number not yet implemented into legislation Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period License suspension 3 months Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers D. Estimated average cost per novice driver for licensing process $1,600 (USD) E. Miscellaneous Significant changes to driver management processes in the post-license period have been proposed and is being considered for national implementation. The proposals include introduction of a 3-year probationary period for all new drivers that will include licence and driving restrictions, mandatory attendance of post-license lectures over the 3-year probationary period, a post-license hazard management assessment, introduction of a Graduated Licensing System, changes to licence sanctions for poor performing drivers. F. General summary of licensing process A client contracts with a driving school to be taught to drive. A learner license is issued to the client, they pass a theory and commence driver training. After training the Licensing Agency provides a driving examiner for a practical driving test. If successful either a 1 year, if the person is under 21 years, or a 10 year driving licence, if aged more than 21 years, is issued to the person. G. For more information, please refer to the following sources: Dubai Driver's Handbook 19

20 H. Contact person Steve Venning ( ) Quality control 20/10/

21 ESTONIA Minimum age for learning to drive 16 Provisional licence required for pre-test practice/training A limited right to drive motor vehicles in category B (restricted driving licence) may be gr anted to a person of 16 to 17 years of age. Official curriculum (54 pages, in Estonian language only) Options for driver training The driver training system involves mandatory theory and practical training in a driving school (minimum period of 6 we eks). Driving school training includes a first aid course. Slippery track training is obligatory to pass for those who hold provisional driving licence (is sued for 2 years) and would like to exchange his/her provisional driving licence to driving licence that is issued for 10 years. In order to gain driving experience, a person who takes or has taken a training course in driving school for drivers of power -driven vehicles may drive a power-driven vehicle in the presence of another person (accompanied person). Quite a lot of people use this opportunity in order to gain more driving experience because the 40 practical lessons might not be sufficient for everybody. If the learner is 18 or over, once he has completed his driver training, he/she can take the the ory and practical test and then drive solo. If the learner is under 18 and has completed driver training, he/she can also take a theory and practical test, but once it is passed the learner can only drive accompanied by his/her parents respectively the legal guardian or a person authorised by the parents/legal guardian. They must then apply for a provisional licence to drive solo at the age of 18 (requiring an additional theory and practical test). Accompanied driving allowed?, accompanied driving is possible for person who takes or has taken driving courses at the driving school for drivers of power-driven vehicles. Accompanied driving gives an opportunity for people to gain more driving experience before coming to take his/her practical d riving test in the testing centre (at the Regional Bureau of Estonian Road Administration). Requirements for accompanying person Must have held a licence for at least 5 years, no recent serious traffic offences Obligatory attendance of practical driving school lessons, 40 lessons of 25 minutes each, including slippery track training Slippery road driving is obligatory to pass on the II phase training (it is possible to start II phase training as soon as th e provisional licence for two years is issued for novice drivers). Obligatory attendance of theory lessons, 41 theory lessons of 45 minutes Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours 6 weeks minimum learning period Total average number of hours pre-test practice Unknown, but at least 16.5 hours (legal minimum in driving school) Possibility of (legally) driving solo before passing the driving test Test includes Theory and practical test Position of theory test After mandatory training at driving school Age at which theory test can be taken 17.5 when applying for a provisional licence (for driving solo from 18) (16 or 17 when applying for a restricted licence, for driving accompanied until 18, to be followed by 2 nd theory & practical test for provisional licence) Pass rate at 1 st attempt theory test 74,4% (statistics for the period from 1 st of January to 16 th of October 2009) Age at which practical test can be taken 17 years and 9 months when applying for a provisional licence (for driving solo from 18) (For 16 and 17-year-olds, see information in brackets above) Pass rate at first attempt practical test 55,7% (statistics for the period from 1 st of January to 16 th of October 2009) Minimum age for solo driving 18 21

22 Probationary period t officially, but restrictions do apply under the 2-year provisional licence Length of probationary period See above Conditions of probationary period vice drivers must place a green maple leaf image in the windscreen of his/her car (front & back) and he/she is not allowed to drive faster than 90 km/h. Additional training is also required (see below) Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period Extension of provisional licence in case of traffic offences Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers, within 23 months after passing the practical and theory tests and holding a provisional licence, novice drivers must com plete a theory + on-road course of eco-driving (90 minutes theory and 75 minutes practice) with a driving instructor and a slippery track training (in one day) consisting of 90 minutes theory and 150 minutes practice. The granting of a full licence (valid for 10 years) is dependent on the novice drive r participating in the 2 nd phase course. D. Estimated average cost per novice driver for licensing process EUR E. Miscellaneous F. General summary of licensing process The Estonian licensing system involves mandatory theory and practical lessons in a driving school, including a slippery track course, and a first aid certificate is required to apply for the driving test. Accompanied driving is allowed in addition, but is practised rarely. F or learners under 18 wishing to learn to drive early, they can pass a theory and practical test to obtain a restricted licence which allows them to drive accompanied until they are 18. At this point, they have to re-take a theory and practical test to obtain a provisional licence to drive solo. After the age of 18, and passing a theory and practical test, all novice drivers enter a de facto 2-year solo driving probationary period (under a provisional licence ). Within this period, additional 2 nd phase training (theory, on-road and track) must be completed in order to obtain a full licence. G. Contact person Eveliis.Nagel@mnt.ee Quality control Eveliis Nagel (16/10/2009) 22

23 FINLAND Minimum age for learning to drive 17.5 Provisional licence required for pre-test practice/training Official curriculum Options for driver training Driver training in Finland is a 2-phase system. In the first phase of training, learners can either choose a training programme in a driving school or train privately (e.g. with parents). About 90% of learner drivers choose the driving school option. The first phase driving school training is composed of 20 hours of theory (class-based) training and a minimum of 15 hours of practical (on-road) training. In practice, too, the actual amount of pre-test on-road training is around 15 hours. Night driving must be included or else must be completed before the test or after the test as part of the 2 nd phase programme (see below) Accompanied driving allowed? (but not in combination with driving school training) Requirements for accompanying person Minimum age of 21 and 3 years driving experience Obligatory attendance of practical driving school lessons (15 hours) Obligatory attendance of theory lessons (20 hours) Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours See above Total average number of hours pre-test practice ~15 hours Possibility of (legally) driving solo before passing the driving test Test includes Theory and practical test Position of theory test After theory training Age at which theory test can be taken 18 Pass rate at 1 st attempt theory test 80% (driving school) and 78% (layman instruction) Age at which practical test can be taken 18 Pass rate at first attempt practical test 74% driving school) and 61% (layman instruction) Minimum age for solo driving 18 Probationary period Length of probationary period 1.5 years Conditions of probationary period Stricter penalties for offences Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period First minor offence: warning letter. Second minor offence in one year or 3 rd offence in two years: compulsory visit to police officer, with possibility of driving ban. In addition to a driving ban, the police are able to demand re-passing the driving test (both theory and practical). Length of the driving ban: min. 1 month, max. 6 months. Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers = 1 feedback drive session (~ 1.5 hours) with a driving instructor with discussion and interactive computerised test on social interaction, followed by separate day of track training and group discussion (with emphasis on personal experiences). Altogether 4 theory lessons and 4 hours of practical training (including the feedback drive). Within 24 months after the test and not sooner than 6 months after passing the driving test. 23

24 D. Estimated average cost per novice driver for licensing process ~1500 EUR (including 2 nd phase) E. Miscellaneous Finland is planning to extend the minimum number of practical driving lessons before the test. F. General summary of licensing process Finland has a two-phase driver training system separated by the driving test. 90% of learners follow an obligatory course of theory and practic al lessons in a driving school in the initial phase, followed by an intermediate period of solo driving after the driving test and then a 2 nd phase training, consisting of a feedback drive, self-evaluation, track training and group discussion within 24 months after the test. The probationary licence lasts 18 months after the test, unless the 2 nd phase training is not taken between the 18 th and the 24 th month or traffic offences have been committed during this period (in which case it is as if the probationary licence still applies). G. For more information, please refer to the following sources: H. Contact person Sami.mynttinen@ake.fi Quality control Marita Koivukoski (19/11/07) 24

25 FRANCE Minimum age for learning to drive 16 (AAC programme only) Certificates required to begin driver training All learner drivers of category B vehicles must hold either an ASSR 2 certificate (road safety education in school) or an ASR certificate. Provisional licence required for pre-test practice/training Official curriculum Programme national de formation Options for driver training Either driving school only (standard) or AAC programme (combination of min. 20 hours driving school training with min kms accompanied driving + 2 x 3 hour feedback meetings during accompanied period with instructor, learner and accompanying pers on) Accompanied driving allowed?, if part of AAC programme (combined accompanied + driving school training) Requirements for accompanying person Minimum age: 28 Obligatory attendance of practical driving school lessons, for both standard and AAC programmes (minimum 20 hours) Obligatory attendance of theory lessons Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours The accompanied driving period in the AAC model must last at least 1 year. Total average number of hours pre-test practice AAC = minimum 3000 km accompanied practice + minimum 20 hours practical driving school lessons Possibility of (legally) driving solo before passing the driving test Test includes Theory test, eyesight check (with examiner) and practical test Position of theory test For learners following AAC, the theory test must be taken before the accompanied driving period begins. For learners followin g the standard driving school only approach, the learner will generally take the theory test at the end of training. Age at which theory test can be taken 16 (AAC) and 17.5 (standard) Pass rate 1 st time at theory test 65% Age at which practical test can be taken 18 Pass rate 1 st time at practical test 55% Minimum age for solo driving 18 Probationary period Length of probationary period 3 years (standard) or 2 years (AAC) Conditions of probationary period Licence holders, who have had their licence for less than three years, are not allowed to exceed the following sp eed limits: 80 km/h on secondary roads (instead of 90 km/h); 100 km/h on motorways, and roads where the maximum speed limit is 110 km/h; 110 km/h on motorways, where the maximum speed limit is 130 km/h. vice drivers must display plates marked A on the back of the car. The licence is revoked after 6 penalty points have been obtained, instead of the usual 12. Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period Obligatory attendance in novice driver improvement course after 3 penalty points. Lic ence revoked if 6 penalty points or more have been obtained (instead of the usual 12). Need to re-take driving test to regain licence. Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers 25

26 D. Estimated average cost per novice driver for licensing process 1500 EUR E. Miscellaneous The driving test (theory and practice) is free of charge. F. General summary of licensing process The standard approach to a driving licence, followed by about 72% of learner drivers, is a test -led approach with driving school training only. The remaining 28% of learners follow the AAC programme of driving school + at least 3000 kms accompanied driving. The test is followed by a probationary period of up to 3 years, in which novice drivers risk losing their licence more easily than experienced drivers, and are required to attend improvement courses in the case of offences. G. For more information, please refer to the following sources: H. Contact person Jean-Pierre.Fougere@equipement.gouv.fr Quality control Jean-Pierre Fougère (07/10/09) 26

27 GERMANY Minimum age for learning to drive 17.5 (standard driving school approach) and 16.5 (Accompanied Driving at 17 programme) Provisional licence required for pre-test practice/training Official curriculum Curricularer Leitfaden praktische Ausbildung Pkw ( Bundesvereinigung der Fahrlehrerverbände e.v.); Cool fahren Sprit sparen (Deutscher Verkehrssicherheitsrat e.v. / DVR) Options for driver training Learner drivers can learn to drive only in professional driving schools. The standard approach is to follow driving school tr aining and take the driving test from the age of 18 years on. From 2004, a new model Accompanied Driving at 17 has been progressively introduced in Germany on a state-by-state basis. Learners following this model can take the driving test already at the age of 17, followed by mandatory accompanied driving period (e.g. by a parent) until the age of 18. Accompanied driving allowed?, but only after the driving test as part of the Accompanied Driving at 17 programme Requirements for accompanying person Minimum age 30 and 5 years driving experience category B. Max. 3 penalty points. Must be registered by name. Obligatory attendance of practical driving school lessons Obligatory attendance of theory lessons (14 X 90 minutes) Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours Minimum 12 lessons of 45 minutes for special trips (motorways, rural roads, bends, overtaking, etc) Total average number of hours pre-test practice 40 x 40 minutes = 27 hours Possibility of (legally) driving solo before passing the driving test Test includes Theory test, eyesight check (from optician) and practical test Position of theory test Towards end of driving school training Age at which theory test can be taken 17 ¾ (or 16 ¾ for Accompanied Driving at 17 programme) Pass rate 1 st time at theory test 71% Age at which practical test can be taken 17 years 11 months (or 16 years 11 months for Accompanied Driving at 17 programme) Pass rate 1 st time at practical test 72% Minimum age for solo driving 18 Probationary period Length of probationary period 2 years (participation in the Accompanied Driving at 17 programme or voluntary 2 nd phase programmes reduces the period to 1 year) Conditions of probationary period Prohibition of alcohol (during probationary period or until 21 st birthday) Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period Participation in a novice driver offender course (ASF) for certain offences. Extension of probationary period by up to 2 years. Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers Post-test accompanied driving period Minimum accompanied driving period until 18 th birthday for novice drivers following Accompanied Driving at 17. D. Estimated average cost per novice driver for licensing process ~1500 EUR E. Miscellaneous Germany has a nationwide voluntary 2 nd phase training programme for novice drivers. Participation in this programme reduces the probationary period by 1 year. F. General summary of licensing process The category B training system is based in driving schools only and includes mandatory practical and theory lessons. A new model allows the 27

28 possibility of obtaining a licence at the age of 17 years, instead of 18, provided that the person is accompanied when driving until his/her 18 th birthday. The probationary period is 2 years long, subject to extension for traffic offences, includes prohibition of alcohol (until the driver s 21 rd birthday) and can lead to participation in novice driver offender courses if certain offences are committed. G. For more information, please refer to the following sources: H. Contact person reinhard.meyer@tuev-sued.de Quality control Kay Schulte 02/11/

29 GREAT BRITAIN Minimum age for learning to drive The usual minimum age for driving cars is 17, but if you receive a higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance you can drive at 16 Provisional licence required for pre-test practice/training Options for driver training The system is liberal, and a mixture of accompanied driving and driving school instruction is the norm. Accompanied driving allowed? Requirements for accompanying person Category B licence holder for at least 3 years + over 21 years old Obligatory attendance of practical driving school lessons Obligatory attendance of theory lessons Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours ne Total average number of hours pre-test practice hours Possibility of (legally) driving solo before passing the driving test Test includes Theory test, Hazard Perception test (PC-based), eyesight check (with examiner) and practical test Position of theory test Theory test can be taken as soon as provisional licence is received. Must be taken and passed before application for practica l test Age at which theory test + HPT can be taken 17, but if you receive a higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance you can drive at 16 Pass rate 1 st time at theory test 62% (not including Hazard Perception Test) Pass rate 1 st time Hazard Perception Test and theory test 85% Age at which practical test can be taken 17 Pass rate 1 st time at practical test 45% Minimum age for solo driving 17 Probationary period Length of probationary period 2 years Conditions of probationary period Licence revoked after obtaining 6 penalty points, instead of the usual 12. Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period Licence revoked if 6 penalty points or more have been obtained. Need to re-take driving test to regain licence Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers D. Estimated average cost per novice driver for licensing process 1500 EUR E. Miscellaneous Learner drivers are not allowed to practise on motorways, and therefore motorways can first be driven upon only after passing the practical driving test F. General summary of licensing process The licensing process is a test-led system where a mixture of practical driving school instruction and accompanied driving (private practice) is the norm. vice drivers who have passed the theory and practical test, from 17 years of age, enter a 2 year probationary period where stricter measures apply than to experienced drivers. G. For more information, please refer to the following sources: H. Contact person Bob Hannigan 29

30 Quality control 27/11/

31 GREECE Minimum age for learning to drive 18 Provisional licence required for pre-test practice/training Official curriculum (issued by Ministry of Transport and Communications) Options for driver training Learner drivers can only learn to drive in professional driving schools. The standard approach is to follow driving school training and take the theory test and driving test from 18 years old. Accompanied driving allowed? Requirements for accompanying person - Obligatory attendance of practical driving school lessons (20 x 45 minutes) Obligatory attendance of theory lessons (20 x 45 minutes) Minimum learning period / number of driving school lessons, hours, as above Total average number of hours pre-test practice 30 x 45 minutes = 22.5 hours Possibility of (legally) driving solo before passing the driving test Test includes Theory test, practical test, eye test (from optician) and medical test (from general practitioner) Position of theory test After training Age at which theory test can be taken 18 Pass rate 1 st time at theory test ~70% Age at which practical test can be taken 18 Pass rate 1 st time at practical test ~80% Minimum age for solo driving 18 Probationary period Length of probationary period - Conditions of probationary period - Consequences of penalties incurred during probationary period - Obligatory post-licence training for novice drivers D. Estimated average cost per novice driver for licensing process ~900EUR E. Miscellaneous F. General summary of licensing process Obligatory theory and practical lessons from 18 years old, followed by a theory test, practical test, eye sight test and medical test. There is no probationary period for novice drivers. G. For more information, please refer to the following sources: H. Contact person Quality control t yet quality controlled by Ministry of Transport & Communications 31