National Driver Improvement Schemes

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the criteria for being offered the course?

The decision to offer a course is based upon sufficient evidence available to follow proceedings for "driving without due care and attention or reasonable consideration to other road users" contrary to section 3 of the Road Traffic Act of 1988

In addition

• The driver must have a full licence
• There must not be any other offences to be dealt with by prosecution at the same time as the due care offence (i.e. no insurance)
• The offer must not be made within 3 years of the completion of a previous Driver Improvement Course.

defaults or refusal would ordinarily attract a court appearance.

What does attending the course involve?

The course is designed to provide the client with a mixture of driving theory, delivered on the first morning of the course and practical on road tuition which follows the theory session. Both elements combine modern training methods linked with the latest thinking on defensive driving techniques. The course runs for one and a half days, by agreeing to attend the course you undertake to participate and successfully complete the course, which involves,

• Attending both the theory and drive sessions.
• Completing all course paperwork.
• Making a positive contribution to the course
• Demonstrationg a willingness to improve your driving

Are there any tests to be undertaken?

The only test you are required to undertake is the eyesight test, which is a statutory requirement to drive a motor vehicle on a public highway. You must be able to read a number plate in good daylight at a distance of 20.5 metres (67 feet) or 20 metres (65 feet) if it is a new style number plate.

Will I need to show my licence?

All Service Providers have an obligation to check an individual's driving licence when they undertake any form of practical driving assessment or training.

Who will be attending the courses?

A complete cross section of the general public attends the courses, which are specifically aimed at those directed to it by the Police.

Who provides the course?

Either Local Authorities or private companies deliver National Driver Improvement Courses throughout the United Kingdom. Courses are delivered by a combination of Road Safety Officers and Department of Transport Approved Driving Instructors.

How much does the course cost?

The fee charged by Service Providers may vary throughout the country. The average cost is around £150.00 for the one and a half day course. The fee is payable prior to attending the course, and may in certain circumstances be payable by instalments or by cash on the day of the course with the agreement of the Service Provider. Not all Service Providers accept electronic payment.

What happens after the course?

Upon successful completion of the course the Service Provider returns the client's file to the relevant Police Authority. The Police will notify the client that no further action will be taken in regard to that particular incident. The client's name will, however, be held on a database by the DVLA at Swansea for a period of three years from the date of course completion. If a client is involved in another incident falling under the same criteria within this three year period they cannot be offered another Driver Improvement Course in lieu of Police proceedings.