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Pass Plus
Successful candidates having passed their driving test can of course now drive by themselves. An exciting time as driving offers freedom and independence, but also an expensive phase as insurers will nonetheless consider newly passed drivers as inexperienced, and insurance premiums can often far exceed the cost of the car.
Why?
Statistics show that new drivers of any age are more likely to have an accident within the first two years of passing their test than at any other time in their driving career. This is basically down to lack of experience and insurance premiums reflect the increased risk.
What can one do about it?
Sign up for Pass Plus, a training scheme for new drivers. Training is designed to develop skills and knowledge to make a safer driver.
Build on your existing skills and knowledge
You already know how to drive so your Pass Plus sessions will be different to a driving lesson. You will develop your confidence and ability to deal with unfamiliar road and traffic conditions under the guidance of a driving instructor.
Extend your driving experience safely
Initial driver training should provide you with a wide range of road and traffic conditions. However, this training often takes place in a familiar area as there are time restraints and lesson objectives to consider. Pass Plus on the other hand provides the opportunity to drive outside your local area, extending you driving experience safely.
Reduce the risk of being in a collision
Awareness, anticipation and planning are key skills in recognising and dealing with hazards safely. These skills develop over time but often not soon enough to prevent inexperienced drivers having a collision. The Pass Plus course is designed to help you develop these skills quickly to keep you safer.
Save money on your insurance premiums
Many insurance companies offer discounts to new drivers who have completed the Pass Plus course, so it's worth shopping around for the best deals. Although the discount is only offered for the first years premium, if you stay claim free you will begin to build your no-claims bonus, leading to lower premiums year on year.
The Pass Plus course
Designed by the Driving Standard Agency, Pass Plus is organised into six modules as follows:
- introduction and town driving
- all weather driving
- out of town driving and rural roads
- night driving
- dual carriageways
- motorways
Drivers should aim to complete all the modules and undertake at least six hours of training. The amount of time spent on each module will vary according to individual needs. Your instructor will continually assess your driving but no test will be necessary. What better foundation could you conceivably have to keep you safe on the road in the years to come? Pass Plus you know it makes sense.
To further support you online, you will find useful information throughout and a number of Youtube Directgov, Driving Standards, and Driver Vehicle and Licensing Agency short films. Video buffer times may vary.
