Anyone looking to get their driver’s licence in England, Scotland, or Wales will have to pass a more difficult test as of today, according to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
Test-takers will now face a longer period of independent driving, a section of satellite navigation, changes to reversing manoeuvres, and will be required to answer vehicle safety questions while driving.
Northern Ireland has a different set of standards.
The DVSA is facing criticism from some for the changes and have been accused of encouraging distracted driving.
Seriously? I hate the things, and every time I a passenger in a car that has one, the driver takes at least one wrong turn. Why is the DVLA encouraging distracted driving? https://t.co/5rs3eK8WaR
— James Avery (@pedalparity) December 4, 2017
More Zombies on the road relying on technology and not paying attention to everything that is going on around them!! Teaching how to pass a test isn't teaching to drive!! pic.twitter.com/2XuVsKV0t3
— Stu (@Cheshy68) December 4, 2017
How ridiculous. Sat navs and phones should be banned – they cause horrible accidents and thoughtless driving. How is encouraging technology a step forwards?
— Richard Hawley (@IntrepidLewes) December 4, 2017
Examiners are also unhappy and have begun a two-day strike for reasons including what they call a “badly designed” new test.
As #PCS #DVSA members start a 2-day strike today over attacks on their T&Cs which could see them paid 5 days' money for 6 days' work and against the badly-designed new driving test. Read what they're looking for to resolve the dispute https://t.co/5tDk04sLG0 #DVSAdispute pic.twitter.com/Frn7y9yBXm
— PCS Union (@pcs_union) December 4, 2017
The changes will be in effect for anyone taking the car driving test from today, including retakes or postponements.