Older Driver Skills Appraisal – Isle of Wight

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Overview

Click here to download Leaflet about the Appraisal

Who should attend?

The driver appraisal scheme is aimed at drivers:

  • Aged 60 years and over;
  • Who have an interest in updating their skills and knowledge;
  • Who want help in adapting to a new vehicle; or
  • Simply want to gain confidence

What does the appraisal offer?

This is an informal and confidential appraisal with the aim of enhancing current skills. It is not a test so there is no pass or fail element.

The assessor looks at the way the driver deals with various traffic situations on roads that they normally drive on, and makes recommendations to help ensure ongoing safety.

Where is the appraisal held?

The appraisal takes place from the person’s home, using their own car, and delivered by specially selected and trained Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) Approved Driving Instructors (ADI) who have a good understanding of the needs of experienced drivers.

How much does a driver appraisal cost?

The appraisal lasts around sixty minutes and costs just £50.

Why should you have your driving skills appraised?

Driving is the most dangerous activity that most people take part in. A slight increase in awareness or improvement in skills is all it takes to make you safer.

Experienced drivers generally have fewer accidents than young drivers. However, as people grow older gradual changes take place which mean their ability to deal safely with some situations diminishes.

A professional driving assessor will be able to identify any unnecessary risk in your driving and help to correct this. Our aim is to help people stay safe on the road for as long as possible.

Please note that this service is not a medical review of your fitness to drive, and is a skills- only appraisal.

What does an appraisal involve?

  • The appraisal will be delivered by an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI).
  • The appraisal takes place in your own vehicle in a relaxed and informal manner.
  • The appraisal will start from your home address or pre-arranged meeting place depending on your wishes.
  • Prior to going out on the road the assessor will complete a safety check and ask you some questions. The assessor will also check you have a current valid driving licence as well conducting a 20m number plate eyesight check.
  • The appraisal will take around 60 minutes with breaks during the drive.
  • The appraisal will be tailored to your needs and will try to include a variety of roads from urban, rural and dual carriageway routes.
  • If you wish you can bring along a friend or family member to make you feel more comfortable.
  • The appraisal is not a test. After your appraisal the assessor will give you honest and objective verbal feedback and complete a written report on your driving ability at the time of taking part. You will receive your report in the following weeks. The assessor may signpost you to additional support and advice, or an appraisal more appropriate to your needs and requirements.
Next step
Complete an ‘Expression of Interest’ Form on the Isle of Wight Council website page by clicking here

Or

Telephone: 01893 821 000

Or

Email: roadsafety@iow.gov.uk

IOW Scheme Title