The Benefits Of Pass Plus Driving Course

Pass Plus is a driving course developed for newly qualified drivers. Statistically, drivers are more likely to have an accident in the first two years of driving after passing their driving test. The aim of Pass Plus is to help new drivers become better drivers by teaching them more advanced driving skills for a variety of driving conditions. Typically drivers take the Pass Plus course within twelve months of passing their driving test.

An Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) is able to teach the Pass Plus course, as long as they are registered with the DSA as a Pass Plus instructor. A Pass Plus course must be at least six hours of training. Some local authorities in England and Scotland and all local authorities in Wales can offer financial support for the Pass Plus fees if you book your course with an ADI on their list.

On your first lesson, your ADI will give you a copy of the ‘Pass Plus Pupil’s Guide’ which contains information about the course. The course is mostly practical, though there is some theory as well. There is not formal test at the end of the course, but your ADI will assess you throughout the course. Your ADI will complete a training report form for you. The form will be signed and dated as you reach the required standard of driving for each individual module. Once you have successfully completed all six modules you will receive your Pass Plus certificate. The certificate can be used to obtain a discount on your car insurance.

The Pass Plus course consists of six modules:

Module 1: Driving Around A Town

This module is split into two parts. The first part is an introduction to Pass Plus, its aims and the range of skills and knowledge that will be taught. The second part is a practical driving lesson covering specific conditions that are found in towns and cities, such as complex junctions and public transport.

Module 2: All Weather Driving

This is a mostly practical module that teaches correct speed, safe stopping distances and ensuring good visibility in all weather conditions. In addition, there is training in skidding and how to deal with skidding

Module 3: Driving In The Countryside

Driving in the countryside presents a whole new set of circumstances and possible dangers to contend with. Things like animals in the road, horse riders, farm entrances and passing places are unique to the countryside and require special care and extra attention.

Module 4: Driving At Night

Driving at night is something that may be new to some newly qualified drivers. The skills needed to drive safely at night, dawn and dusk are covered in this module.

Module 5: Driving On Dual Carriageways

Dual carriageways are known as high speed roads. The two carriageways are separated by a central reservation. The particular skills needed to drive safely and confidently on a dual carriageway are overtaking and lane discipline, joining and leaving a dual carriageway and the distance between your vehicle and other vehicles.

Module 6: Driving On Motorways

Motorways are high speed three lane highways. The maximum speed limit on motorways is 70mph. This module should be a practical module and you should to practice driving on a motorway. If you do not, it is advisable to get some practise as soon as you can after your training. There are particular rules that apply to motorway driving, such as correct lane discipline, use of the hard shoulder and breakdown procedures that will be covered in this module.