National Driver Improvement FAQ's

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.
• Default or refusal would ordinarily attract a court appearance.

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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 driving sessions.
• Completing all course paperwork.
• Making a positive contribution to the course.
• Demonstrating a willingness to improve your driving.

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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 with or without glasses at a distance of 20.5metres (67 feet) or 20 metres (65 feet) if it is a new style number plate.

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

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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. The courses can however be attended voluntarily by anyone wishing to do so. The local Service Provider will inform anyone wishing to do this of course dates and costs.

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Who provides the course?
Either Local Authorities or Private Companies deliver National Driver Improvement Schemes throughout the U.K. In both cases teams of specially trained Department for Transport Approved Driving Instructors deliver the on road driving sessions and a combination of Road Safety Officers and Driving Instructors deliver the classroom based theory sessions.

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How much does the course cost?
The fee charged by Service Providers may vary throughout the country, but averages out at around £160.00 for the one and a half day course. The fee is payable prior to attending the course.

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What happens after the course?
Upon successful completion of the course the Service Provider returns the client file to the relevant Police Authority. They in turn will notify the client that no further action will be taken for that particular incident. The client’s name will, however be held on a database at the DVLA for a period of three years from the date of course completion. If they are involved in another incident falling under the same criteria within the three-year period they will not be offered a National Driver Improvement Course in lieu of proceedings.

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Where will the course be held?
Where possible, the course will take place in your home county.

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Is a car provided?
Yes.  A fully insured, modern car will be provided for the course.

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Is lunch provided?
No, lunch is not provided, however you are welcome to bring your own.  Tea and coffee will be supplied during the mid-morning break. 

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Is accommodation provided?
No, the courses are not residential and therefore accommodation is not provided.

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What do I need to bring with me?
You must bring your original driving licence with you on the first day of the course, a photocopy will not be accepted. If you have a photo-card licence, both parts are required. In the case of a fixed penalty offence, the receipt for the licence must be produced.  You will not be accepted onto the course if you do not have your full driving licence with you and your fee will not be refunded. 

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What happens if I am late for my course?
You must arrive on time for your course.  Late arrivals may be refused entry and your case will be returned to the Police.  No refund of course fee will be made.  You will be expected to leave plenty of time for your journey to the course venue.

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How do I get to the venue?
A location map will be included with your confirmation letter, when payment has been received.

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What if I can’t get time off work to attend a course?
Driving Services will endeavour to find you a suitable course date, however, if you cannot make time to attend, you will be prosecuted in the usual way.

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What if I can’t make the course date offered?
Driving Services will endeavour to find you an alternative course date within the deadline given by the Police.

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Is there any childcare available?
No, and children are not allowed to attend the course with you.

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I have special needs – can you accommodate me?
Yes, but please let us know on the form what your needs are.

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What happens if I don’t turn up?
Your details will be referred back to the Police.

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Can I bring a friend or member of my family with me?
No, you may only bring an interpreter with you.  Driving Services must be advised of the circumstances beforehand.

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