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What is a Drive Safely for Longer Assessment?

We have been offering driving assessments for people aged 60+ since the Drive Safely for Longer project launched in March 2016. Since we launched, over 2500 people registered for a driving assessment and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

Over the years, there have been changes in road traffic law, road layouts, traffic signs and vehicle design. The natural aging process can affect individuals in different ways, including eye sight, mobility and reflexes.

A Drive Safely for Longer Assessment provides an opportunity for drivers to update their knowledge, improve their hazard awareness and their driving skills.

Accessing a free assessment could be all it takes to give reassurance, increase confidence and ultimately help to keep people driving safer for longer.

Who can attend?

This course is aimed at drivers aged 60 years and over. Applicants must hold a current driving licence and be actively driving e.g. have not had more than 12 months break from driving.

People register for a driving assessment for a variety of reasons. Some drivers wish to update their driving knowledge or skills, to receive honest feedback on their driving, support in adapting to a new vehicle or to gain more confidence on a specific manoeuvre or route.

What does the assessment involve?

Each driver receives 2 hours with a Driving Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) Approved Driving Instructors, they have a good understanding of the needs of experienced drivers and the assessment is tailored to the drivers’ personal requirements. The assessment is a mixture of discussion and practical driving assessment.

The assessment is not a driving test, so there is no pass or fail. The driving assessor will make recommendations to help ensure continual safety.

If the Instructor feels there are elements the driver needs to work on a discussion will take place during the two hour assessment slot.

If the instructor feels that the driving is at a standard which poses a risk to their safety or the safety of others this will be clearly communicated to the driver.

It can be reassuring for drivers to have honest feedback from a professional driving instructor.

How is the assessment organised?

Once a driver registers, they will join the waiting list - this can take approximately one month, depending on the driving instructor’s availability in the area.

Once a driver is allocated to an instructor, the instructor will make contact to arrange a mutually convenient date and time for the assessment to take place.

Is a vehicle provided?

Most drivers prefer to use their own vehicle, however if you wish, an appropriate fully insured vehicle can be provided.

Special Requirements

We would need to be informed of any special requirements that need to be taken into consideration to ensure drivers can fully participate in the course. Every effort is made to accommodate requests.

How long is the course?

The session lasts around two hours and is a mixture of discussion and practical driving.

How much does it cost?

For Merseyside drivers the cost of the session is £20. Assessments are part funded by Merseyside Road Safety Partnership, so drivers only need to pay £20 to their driving instructor on the day of the assessment.

Cancellation Policy

There is only one assessment per person and cancellations with less than 48 hours will result in the scheme being charged. If this is the case, we cannot offer a second assessment.

How to book

For more information or if you would like to speak with a member of the team, feel free to contact us.

Wirral Council administer the scheme on behalf of Merseyside Road Safety Partnerships.

0151 606 2143

Wirral Borough Council
PO Box 289
Wallasey
CH27 9FP