AQW 8458/17-22


Mr Andrew Muir
Alliance Party
North Down


Tabled Date: 08/10/2020
Answered On Date: 23/10/2020
Priority Written: No


Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on the resumption of approved driving instructor tests.


Answer:
Driving instructors have been included in the Executive’s regulations on businesses that must close over the next four weeks to help stop the spread of Covid-19. Following this Executive decision driving tests will also cease over this period of increased restrictions based on public health and scientific advice. The booking service is now closed and the DVA will contact those who had their driving tests cancelled to advise them how they can reschedule their appointments.
To create additional capacity the DVA is planning to open up the booking system for February for these impacted customers only. Further appointments will also be made available in November, December and January as the DVA increases capacity by recruiting additional examiners. These slots, when they are released, will also only be available to these impacted customers.
The qualifying tests for Approved Driving Instructors had not been reinstated before this period of increased restrictions took effect. The DVA is working hard to reinstate these tests as soon as possible after the restrictions end, however due to the longer duration of the on road driving element of this test, it must be fully risk assessed to ensure it can be delivered safely in line with PHA advice and guidance. Whenever the DVA is in a position to resume this service I will ensure this is clearly communicated to all affected customers.