Result for learners
Driving lessons are set to resume later this month as virus restrictions ease
LEARNER drivers in Scotland will be able to resume lessons from August 24, almost two months after they restarted in England.
The Scottish Government has confirmed lessons can go ahead and First Minister Nicola Sturgeon made the announcement as part of the Phase 3 route map of lockdwon easing.
However, the date is “indicative”, which could mean it is further delayed if there is a rise in infection rates.
Car theory tests restarted in Scotland on July 22 and motorcycle and tractor driving tests got under way on Monday.
But it is unlikely car driving tests in Scotland will resume until September as all learner drivers will have to book a new appointment, including those who had a previous test date that fell within lockdown.
Ian McIntosh, chief executive of RED Driving School, said: “We welcome the announcement to potentially restart driving lessons from August 24.
“Since the start of lockdown, instructors have followed Government guidance and refrained from teaching.
“Some instructors have struggled to access the Government’s self-employed income support initiative, meaning lockdown has been an emotional and challenging time for them.
“It is good to finally hear our Scottish instructors can get back behind the wheel, following in the footsteps of their English and Welsh counterparts.
“However, given the very low infection rate in Scotland, it seems hugely unfair for instructors and learners to be denied lessons for so long.”
The chief executive of the Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency Gareth Llewellyn said: “It has been vital that training and tests only resume when it is safe to do so and in line with the Scottish Government’s advice.
“We know this has been a tough time for instructors. Tests for critical workers have continued in lockdown and I would like to thank all the instructors and examiners who have helped during this terrible pandemic.”
He added: “We will be helping instructors follow the best practice for personal protective equipment and how to prepare the car, wiping down all of the controls before every lesson.
“Instructors will also be trained in how to reduce viral contamination.”
Half a million driving tests have been cancelled across the UK since March, creating a huge backlog. Carly Brookfield, chief executive of the Driving Instructors Association, said: “It’s been a challenging time for instructors learning how to meet the requirements of a new, safe in-vehicle training environment.
“Driving instructors in Scotland are keen to get back to work. We understand the caution of the Scottish Government and the need to keep infection rates falling. We think this can be achieved while also restarting driving lessons and tests.”
Instructors will have to wear a gloves and a face mask. They will be given equipment to clean the car with before every lesson. Learners will be asked to confirm they have no virus symptoms.
Llewellyn added: “Every learner driver has to be responsible for their own safety and that of instructors and examiners.
“Simple steps make a big difference and will help get us back on the road as quickly and smoothly as possible.”