§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what assessment he has made of the implications of re-testing drivers after(a) 10 and (b) 15 years; [151638]
(2) what estimate he has made of the cost to public funds of requiring drivers to pass a refresher test to retain their driving licence after (a) 10 and (b) 15 years. [151639]
§ Mr. Jamieson[holding answer 29 January 2004]We do not consider that the regular retesting of drivers would be a proportionate measure to deliver road safety benefits. We have made no estimate of the cost to public funds, but requiring all driving licence holders to undergo a periodic retest would be an onerous and expensive obligation, particularly since there is no evidence to suggest that road safety would be improved as a result. Most road accidents are caused by careless or inconsiderate driving, rather than a lack of skill.
Courts already have powers to require those drivers who offend to undergo a driving test. Where a driver is guilty of a serious motoring offence, this involves an extended length driving test.