The Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) Regulations 1996

Accelerate to a suitable speed while maintaining a straight course, including during gear-changes.

3

Adjust speed to negotiate left or right turns at junctions, possibly in restricted spaces while maintaining control of the vehicle.

4

Brake accurately to stop where directed, if need be by performing an emergency stop.

5

Either—

• (a) perform any two of the following manoeuvres—

• (i) reverse in a straight line and reverse right or left round a corner while keeping within the correct traffic lane;

• (ii) turn the vehicle to face the opposite way, using forward and reverse gears;

• (iii) park the vehicle and leave a parking space (parallel, oblique or right-angle) both forwards and in reverse, on the flat, uphill and downhill; or

• (b) (in the case of a test for a licence authorising the driving of vehicles in category C + E only) reverse in an S-shaped curve.

C. Behaviour in traffic

1

Observe (including the use of the rear view mirrors) road alignment, markings, signs and potential or actual risks.

2

Communicate with other road users using the authorised means.

3

React appropriately in actual risk situations.

4

Comply with road traffic regulations and the instructions of the police and traffic controllers.

5

Move off from the kerb or a parking space.

6

Drive with the vehicle correctly positioned on the road, adjusting speed to traffic conditions and the line of the road.

7

Keep the right distance between vehicles.

8

Change lanes.

9

Pass parked or stationary vehicles and obstacles.

10

Approach and cross junctions.

11

Turn right and left at junctions or to leave the carriageway.

12

Where the opportunity arises—

• (a) Pass oncoming vehicles, including in confined spaces.

• (b) Overtake in various situations.

• (c) Approach and cross level-crossings.

D. Larger vehicles: speed reduction and steering

1

Check the power-assisted braking and steering systems.

2

Use the various braking systems.

3

Use the speed reduction systems other than the brakes.

4

Adjust course to allow for the length of the vehicle and its overhang.

E. Trailers

Uncouple and re-couple trailer or semi-trailer from and to the tractor vehicle.

F. Vehicle safety

Show awareness of vehicle safety measures and be able to operate vehicle safety systems.

PART 4 — PRACTICAL TEST: CATEGORIES D AND D + E

• (1) Test candidates must satisfy the examiner as to their ability to—

• (i) carry out properly the activities, and

• (ii) perform competently, without danger to and with due consideration for other road users, the manoeuvres

prescribed in paragraph (2), (3) or (4), as the case may be, in all respects in accordance with this Schedule.

• (2) In the case of candidates taking a test for a licence authorising the driving of vehicles of a class included in category D or D + E or any sub-category thereof, the manoeuvres and activities mentioned in sections A to C and F below are prescribed.

• (3) In the case of candidates taking a test for a licence authorising the driving of vehicles of a class included in category D or D + E or in sub-category D1 + E, the manoeuvres and activities mentioned in section D are also prescribed.

• (4) In the case of candidates taking a test for a licence authorising the driving of vehicles of a class included in category D + E or sub-category D1 + E, the activity mentioned in section E is prescribed.

A. Preparation to drive

1

Adjust the seat as necessary to obtain a correct seating position.

2

Adjust rear view mirrors and seat belt.

3

Check that the doors are closed.

B. Technical control of the vehicle

1

Start the engine and move off smoothly (uphill and downhill as well as on the flat).

2

Accelerate to a suitable speed while maintaining a straight course, including during gear-changes.

3

Adjust speed to negotiate left or right turns at junctions, possibly in restricted spaces while maintaining control of the vehicle.

4

Brake accurately to stop where directed, if need be by performing an emergency stop.

5

Either—

• (a) perform any two of the following manoeuvres—

• (i) reverse in a straight line and reverse right or left round a corner while keeping within the correct traffic lane;

• (ii) turn the vehicle to face the opposite way, using forward and reverse gears;

• (iii) park the vehicle and leave a parking space (parallel, oblique or right-angle) both forwards and in reverse, on the flat, uphill and downhill; or

• (b) (in the case of a test for a licence authorising the driving of vehicles in category D + E only) reverse in an S-shaped curve.

C. Behaviour in traffic

1

Observe (including the use of the rear view mirrors) road alignment, markings, signs and potential or actual risks.

2

Communicate with other road users using the authorised means.

3

React appropriately in actual risk situations.

4

Comply with road traffic regulations and the instructions of the police and traffic controllers.

5

Move off from the kerb or a parking space.

6

Drive with the vehicle correctly positioned on the road, adjusting speed to traffic conditions and the line of the road.

7

Keep the right distance between vehicles.

8

Change lanes.

9

Pass parked or stationary vehicles and obstacles.

10

Approach and cross junctions.

11

Turn right and left at junctions or to leave the carriageway.

12

Where the opportunity arises—

• (a) Pass oncoming vehicles, including in confined spaces.

• (b) Overtake in various situations.

• (c) Approach and cross level-crossings.

D. Larger vehicles: speed reduction and steering

1

Check the power-assisted braking and steering systems.

2

Use the various braking systems.

3

Use the speed reduction systems other than the brakes.

4

Adjust course to allow for the length of the vehicle and its overhang.

E. Trailers

Uncouple and re-couple trailer or semi-trailer from and to the tractor vehicle.

F. Vehicle safety

Show awareness of vehicle safety measures and be able to operate vehicle safety systems.

PART 5 — UNITARY TEST: CATEGORIES F, G, H AND K

1

Read in good daylight (with the aid of corrective lenses if worn) a registration mark fixed to a motor vehicle and containing letters and figures 79.4 millimetres high at a distance of—

• (a) 12.3 metres, in the case of a unitary test conducted in respect of a vehicle included in category K;

• (b) 20.5 metres in any other case.

2

Start the engine of the vehicle.

3

Move away straight ahead or at an angle.

4

Overtake, meet or cross the path of other vehicles and take an appropriate course.

5

Turn right-hand and left-hand corners correctly.

6

Stop the vehicle in an emergency and normally and, in the latter case, bring it to rest in an appropriate part of the road.

PART 6 — UNITARY TEST: CATEGORIES F AND G

1

Carry out manoeuvres involving the use of reverse gear (except in a case where the vehicle is not fitted with a means of reversing).

2

Indicate intended actions at appropriate times by giving appropriate signals in a clear and unmistakable manner.

3

Act correctly and promptly on all signals given by traffic signs and traffic controllers and take appropriate action in relation to signs given by other road users.

PART 7 — UNITARY TEST: CATEGORY H

1

Indicate intended actions at appropriate times by giving appropriate signals in a clear and unmistakable manner.

2

Act correctly and promptly on all signals given by traffic signs and traffic controllers and take appropriate action in relation to signs given by other road users.

3

Drive the vehicle backwards and cause it to face in the opposite direction by means of its tracks.

SCHEDULE 9 — UPGRADED ENTITLEMENTS ON PASSING SECOND TEST

(1) Test prescribed in respect of:—	Prescribed test also passed for:	Prescribed test also passed for:
	(2) Category C + E	(3) Sub-category C1 + E
D	D + E	D1 + E
D1	D1 + E	D1 + E
(A) Automatic test pass:—	Manual test pass in category (or sub-category):	Manual test pass in category (or sub-category):
---	---	---
	(1) (C1)	(2) (C)
C1	—	—
C	—	—
C1 + E	—	C1 + E
C + E	—	—
D1	D1	D1
D	—	D
D1 + E	—	D1 + E
D + E	—	—

SCHEDULE 10 — FORMS OF CERTIFICATE AND STATEMENT OF THEORY TEST RESULT

PART 1

PART 2

SCHEDULE 11 — FORMS OF CERTIFICATE AND STATEMENT OF PRACTICAL AND UNITARY TEST RESULT

PART 1

UNITARY TEST PASS OR PRACTICAL TEST PASS AFTER THEORY TEST PASS

PART 2

UNITARY TEST OR PRACTICAL TEST FAILURE

PART 3

PRACTICAL TEST PASS BEFORE THEORY TEST PASS

SCHEDULE 12 — APPROVED MOTOR BICYCLE TRAINING COURSES: FORMS OF CERTIFICATE

PART 1

CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR'S CERTIFICATE

PART 2

CERTIFIED DIRECT ACCESS INSTRUCTOR'S CERTIFICATE

PART 3

CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION OF APPROVED TRAINING COURSE

SCHEDULE 13 — ELEMENTS OF AN APPROVED TRAINING COURSE

(A) Introduction

1

Trainees must be told and must understand:—

• the aims of the approved training course;

• the importance of having the right equipment and clothing;

• the need to be clearly visible to other road users (the use of conspicuity aids);

• the legal requirements for riding on the road;

• why motor cyclists are more vulnerable than most road users;

• the need to drive at the correct speed according to road and traffic conditions;

• the importance of reading and understanding the Highway Code.

2

Trainees' eyesight must be tested. Trainees must be able to read, in good daylight, a vehicle registration mark containing letters and figures 79.4 mm high at a distance of 20.5 metres (with the aid of glasses or contact lenses if worn).

(B) Practical on site training

3

Trainees must receive practical on site training at the conclusion of which they must fulfil the following requirements, that is to say they must—

• be familiar with the motor cycle, its controls and how it works;

• be able to carry out basic machine checks to a satisfactory standard and be able to take the bike on and off the stand satisfactorily;

• be able to wheel the machine around to the left and right showing proper balance and bring the motorcycle to a controlled halt by braking;

• be able to start and stop the engine satisfactorily.

(C) Practical on site riding

4

Trainees must undertake practical on site riding at the conclusion of which they must be able to execute the following manoeuvres, that is to say they must be able to:—

• ride the machine under control in a straight line and bring the machine to a controlled halt;

• ride the machine round a figure of eight circuit under control;

• ride the machine slowly under control;

• bring the machine to a stop under full control as in an emergency;

• carry out controlled braking using both brakes;

• change gear satisfactorily;

• carry out rear observation correctly;

• carry out simulated left and right hand turns correctly using the Observation-Signal-Ma noeuvre (OSM) and Position-Speed-Look (PSL) routines.

(D) Practical on road training

5

Before undertaking practical on road riding trainees must be told and must understand the need to:—

• ride defensively and anticipate the actions of other road users;

• use rear observation at appropriate times;

• assume the correct road position when riding;

• leave sufficient space when following another vehicle;

• pay due regard to the effect of varying weather conditions when riding;

• be aware of the various types of road surface that can be encountered.

(E) Practical on road riding

6

Trainees must undertake on road riding. They must ride safely in a variety of situations for a period of not less than 2 hours. This element must include experience of as many of the following as practicable:—

• roundabouts

• junctions

• pedestrian crossings

• traffic lights

• gradients

• bends

• obstructions.

Signed

Signed by authority of the Secretary of State for Transport

John Bowis — Parliamentary under Secretary of State, — Department of Transport — 8th November 1996

We approve the making of these Regulations

Patrick Mcloughlin — Roger Knapman — Two of the Lords Commissioners of Her Majesty’s Treasury — 7th November 1996

Explanatory note

(This note is not part okf the Regulations)

These Regulations consolidate with amendments the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) Regulations 1987, the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Large Goods and Passenger-Carrying Vehicles) Regulations 1990 and regulations amending those Regulations. The amendments have been made for the purpose of implementing Council Directive 91/439/EEC on Driving Licences (OJ No. L 237, 24.8.91, p. 1) and for general purposes. The principal changes made to the previous regulations (which are now revoked) are as follows:—

• (a) the categories of vehicle for licensing and testing purposes have been brought into line with the categories specified in the Directive (regulations 4, 5, 6 and 36 and Schedule 2);

• (b) eligibility to apply for a provisional licence for the categories of larger vehicle is staged and depends upon the possession of a licence to drive smaller vehicles (regulation 9);

• (c) access to licences authorising the riding of larger motor cycles is staged and depends upon the possession of a licence to drive smaller motor cycles (regulations 7(2) and 41);

• (d) a test pass in a category B vehicle (motor cars and small goods vehicles) does not automatically confer entitlement to drive medium-sized goods vehicles and small buses (categories C1 and D1), for which separate tests must now be passed (regulations 36 and 40 and Schedules 2, 7 and 8);

• (e) driving tests for medium-sized and large goods and passenger-carrying vehicle drivers' licences are divided into two parts, a theory test and a practical test, and the content of the practical tests has been modified (regulation 36 and Schedules 7 and 8);

• (f) the arrangements for tests for medium-sized and large goods and passenger-carrying vehicle drivers' licences are made similar to those already applying to a smaller vehicles and include, inter alia, a trainer booking facility (regulations 24, 26, 28 and 30);

• (g) the specifications for vehicles which must be provided for tests have been modified (regulation 33) and photographic evidence of identity is required at tests (regulation 34(2) and (4) and Schedule 6);

• (h) provision is made for compulsory basic training for motor cyclists to be undertaken on large bicycles with an engine power over 35 kilowatts (regulations 59 and 60);

• (i) the medical standards required in respect of licences are modified (regulations 65 to 68) by—

• (i) the creation of two groups, Group 1 including the smaller and slower vehicles and Group 2 including medium-sized and large goods vehicles and all passenger-carrying vehicles, and

• (ii) the introduction of stricter eyesight standards for drivers of Group 2 vehicles.

Transitional provision is made for holders of licences with driving entitlements currently in force and for correspondences between the current vehicle categories and the new ones (see, in particular, regulations 5, 49 and 70).

Fees for driving tests and the grant of driving licences are not changed (regulations 12, 27 and 31 and Schedules 3 and 5) but the cost of obtaining licences to drive the larger categories of vehicle is increased in some cases as a result of the introduction of staging of entitlements mentioned above.

The Regulations come into force for the purposes of booking tests on 2nd December 1996, for the purposes of photographic identification at tests on 1st March 1997 and for all other purposes (except the reference to the Road Traffic (New Drivers) Act 1995) 1st January 1997.

Footnotes

[^f00001]: 1988 c. 52. Relevant amendments are referred to where appropriate below. Amending statutes and instruments are referred to in the footnotes to these Regulations in the following manner: “the 1989 Act” means the Road Traffic (Driver Licensing and Information Systems) Act 1989 (c. 22); “the 1990 Regulations” means the Driving Licences (Community Driving Licence) Regulations 1990 (S.I. 1990/144); “the 1991 Act” means the Road Traffic Act 1991 (c. 40) and “the 1996 Regulations” means the Driving Licences (Community Driving Licence) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/1974).

[^f00002]: Subsection (6) was amended by the 1990 Regulations.

[^f00003]: Subsections (2A) and (5A) were inserted by the 1989 Act, section 6; subsection (3) was amended by the 1991 Act, Schedule 4, paragraph 63; subsection (4) was amended by the 1989 Act, Schedule 3, paragraph 8 and the 1996 Regulations; subsections (7) and (9) were amended by the 1996 Regulations. Subsection (4)(b) is to be read with the Department of Transport (Fees) Order 1988 (S.I. 1988/643), as amended by S.I. 1991/811, 1993/1601, 1995/1684 and 1996/1929, the relevant entries being items 5, 5A and 6 in Schedule 1, Table III.

[^f00004]: Subsection (2) was amended by the 1996 Regulations.

[^f00005]: Subsections (1) and (3) were amended by the 1989 Act, section 6(2) and the 1996 Regulations; subsections (3A) and (3B) were inserted by the 1989 Act, section 6(2) and subsection (3A) was amended by the 1996 Regulations; subsection (4) was amended by the 1996 Regulations.

[^f00006]: Subsection (2) was amended by the 1989 Act, section 5(10); subsections (2) and (4) were amended by the 1989 Act, Schedule 3, paragraph 11; subsection (2) was amended by the 1990 Regulations.

[^f00007]: Subsection (1) was amended by Schedule 3, paragraph 12, of the 1989 Act; subsection (1A) was inserted by section 2(2) of that Act.

[^f00008]: Section 99A was inserted by the 1996 Regulations.

[^f00009]: Subsection (2) was amended by the 1989 Act, Schedule 3, paragraph 14 and by the 1990 and 1996 Regulations.

[^f00010]: See the definitions of “prescribed” and “regulations”.

[^f00011]: Sections 114, 115, 116 and 117 to 122 (Part IV of the Act) were substituted by the 1989 Act, section 2(1) and Schedule 2.

[^f00012]: Section 114(1) was amended by the 1996 Regulations.

[^f00013]: Section 115A was inserted by the 1996 Regulations. Subsection (3) was amended by the 1991 Act, Schedule 4, paragraph 64 and the 1996 Regulations.

[^f00014]: Subsection (2A) was inserted by the 1991 Act, Schedule 4, paragraph 65.

[^f00015]: See the definition of “prescribed”.

[^f00016]: Amended by the 1991 Act, Schedule 4, paragraph 68.

[^f00017]: Inserted by the 1989 Act, Schedule 3, paragraph 23.

[^f00018]: See the definition of “prescribed”.

[^f00019]: See section 105(4) of the Road Traffic Act 1988.

[^f00020]: 1978 c. 30.

[^f00021]: 1988 c. 53. Section 36 was substituted by the 1991 Act, section 32.

[^f00022]: 1981 c. 14.

[^f00023]: 1985 c. 67.

[^f00024]: S.I. 1986/1078. The relevant amending instruments are S.I. 1987/676 and 1994/329.

[^f00025]: 1949 c. 89.

[^f00026]: 1962 c. 13.

[^f00027]: 1971 c. 10.

[^f00028]: S.I. 1965/1536.

[^f00029]: 1994 c. 22.

[^f00030]: 1992 c. 4.

[^f00031]: OJ No. L370, 31.12.85, p.1. See also regulation 4 of the Community Drivers Hours and Recording Equipment (Exemptions and Supplementary Provisions) Regulations 1986 (S.I. 1986/1456).

[^f00032]: OJ No. L357, 29.12.76, p. 36.

[^f00033]: S.I. 1975/1208. Article 2(1) was substituted by S.I. 1989/993 and amended by S.I. 1991/771.

[^f00034]: 1971 c. 80.

[^f00035]: 1947 c. 41.

[^f00036]: 1869 c. 115.

[^f00037]: 1985 c. 6. Section 736 was substituted by the Companies Act 1989, section 144(1).

[^f00038]: 1995 c. 13.

[^f00039]: S.R. & O. 1939/1304.

[^f00040]: 1959 c. 19.

[^f00041]: 1964 c. 38.

[^f00042]: 1976 c. 3.

[^f00043]: S.I. 1977/1309, to which there were amendments not relevant to these Regulations.