There have been a number of changes to the driving test over the past few years but the near future could see the introduction of the most significant changes yet.

The possibility that new learner drivers in the UK could face a test which includes the use of satellite navigation systems and the elimination of the three-point turn is now greater than ever before. Changes such as these would be a major shakeup of the test, which, in its current form, has been used for the past 20 years.

Trials of a New Test

The three-point turn could be dropped from driving tests after the government signalled Are Significant Changes To The Driving Test on the Waythe biggest shakeup in 20 years.

Learners may be asked to use a satellite navigation system as part of a revised practical exam and the three-point-turn – more recently known as the “turn in the road” – could be scrapped altogether.

About 1,000 learner drivers across the UK will be invited to a trial of new practical exam measures designed to “better reflect real-life driving”.

The test has existed in its current form for about two decades, although “independent driving” – where motorists are asked to find their way to a destination – has formed part of the practical exam in recent years.

Independent Driving Extension

A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (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.”

The trial will consider extending the independent driving section from 10 to 20 minutes of the total 40-minute length, and asking candidates to follow directions on a ‘SatNav’, as an alternative to using road signs.

It will also consider replacing the “reverse around a corner” and “turn in the road” manoeuvres with more realistic everyday moves, such as reversing out of a parking bay, or pulling up on the left or right before rejoining the flow of traffic, the DVSA said.

Learners may also be asked one of the two safety questions while on the move rather than at the start of the test. This could involve operating the rear windscreen heater while driving.

For more on this story, please check out the following article – http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2014/nov/28/uk-driving-test-turn-learner-driver-satnav-three-point