It is offered to some drivers who have been involved in a 'driving without due care and attention' crash/incident.

The Driver Improvement Scheme was initially set up as a result of the "North Report" published in 1988.  Since that time, the scheme has been implemented by over 40 police forces in partnership with local authorities and the private sector.

Courses are one and a half days long (usually all day Friday and the following Saturday morning in Worcestershire).   The course includes a morning's classroom session followed by two on-road practical sessions using the instructor's vehicle.

All training is conducted by specially selected and trained Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs).

The course aims to improve the driving skills, attitudes and behaviour of those taking part.  A driver who successfully completes the course is reported back to the police and no further action is taken.

The course is open to anyone wishing to improve their driving skills and costs at present £155.00.  For futher information, please contact Diane Hall (Course Administrator) on telephone no: 01905 766825

For link to official National Driver Improvement Web-site, click here

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the criteria for being offered the coures?

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'.

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 due care offence (i.e. no insurance)
• The driver must not have completed a previous Driver Improvement Course within the last 3 years
• Default or refusal would ordinarily attract a court appearance.

What does attending the course involve?

The course provides the client with a mixture of driving theory (first morning of the course) followed by 2 sessions of practical on-road tuition (in afternoon and the following morning). By agreeing to attend, you undertake to participate and successfully complete the course involving:

• Attending the theory and driving sessions.
• Completing all course paperwork.
• Making a positive contribution to the course.
• Demonstrating an improvement in your driving.

Are there any tests?

You are required to undertake an eyesight test. You must be able to read a number plate in good daylight with or without glasses at a distance of 20.5 metres (67 feet). You will also undergo a 'Highway Code Theory Test' that is based on the DSA theory test. A copy of the Highway Code will be sent to you on receipt of the course fees.

Who will be attending the course?

A complete cross-section of the general public attends the courses. Approximately 15 people per course.

Where are the courses held?

In Worcestershire, the courses are held at County Hall, Worcester and you will be sent a location map to help

How much does the course cost?

The fee charged by Service Providers varies throughout the country. At the Worcester centre, the fee is presently £155.00 and must be paid before attending.

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. However, the client's name will be held on the database at DVLA for a period of 3 years. 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.

Is a car/motorcyle provided?

A fully insured modern car will be provided.  If the accident/incident took place whilst you were riding a motorcycle, you can use your own motorcyle or, alternatively, we can make arrangements to provide you with a suitable motorbike.

Is lunch provided?

Lunch is not provided but we do have a restaurant and shop on site where you can buy lunch/snacks,etc or you are welcome to bring your own. Tea and coffee will be supplied during the morning.

How much training is on the road?

Actual driving time may vary, but you will be trained by an advanced driving instructor for about 6 hours,  Some of this time will be as a passenger watching other people behind the wheel as there are up to 3 trainees to a car.

Will there be a driving test?

There is no driving test, but satisfactory completion of the course will be required.