Tougher test for learner drivers

Times are to get that much tougher for Learner drivers.

The Government today announced a new written theory test for learner-motorists - and said it would come into effect tomorrow morning.

Detailing the scheme, junior environment minister Bobby Molloy maintained: ‘‘It will encourage a deeper and more structured understanding by novice drivers of information and behaviour that will assist them to become safer drivers.’’

Anyone who applies for a provisional licence from tomorrow will be obliged to take the test, which will formally begin on June 11.

Current provisional licence holders will not be affected.

Mr Molloy said learners would be permitted to take a trial run before sitting the new test.

‘‘There will 40 questions on road safety matters, chosen randomly from a total of more than 740 by machine. If 35 of them are answered correctly, the applicants will get a certificate to say they have passed.

‘‘This marks another significant step in implementing the government’s strategy for road safety. The test should increasingly be reflected over time in improved standards of driver behaviour.’’

The test is being run by the Prometric company, which has been responsible for similar tests in Britain since the start of last year.

There will be 40 test centres throughout the Irish Republic, where 70 jobs will be created initially.

The test, which will cost L-drivers IR£25.20 a time, was welcomed by Carl Wilson, of the Irish School of Motoring as ‘‘not before its time’’.