Pass Plus Scheme: What is it and why is it worth it?

The Pass Plus Scheme is a driving course that allows people who have already passed their driving test to receive extra training to further improve their driving skills. It involves at least 6 hours of tuition from an approved driving instructor (ADI) who is qualified to offer Pass Plus.

There is no test involved however if you would like a certificate of participation your instructor will need to sign a form which you then send to the DVSA. You will be assessed during the course by your instructor who will provide you with a written report.

You can take part in Pass Plus immediately after passing your practical driving test or at any point afterwards. The cost of Pass Plus will be different depending on where you live, how many lessons you need and your instructor/driving school.

What is covered in the Pass Plus Scheme?

There are six areas covered as part of Pass Plus:

• Driving in town. You will learn about complex junctions, vulnerable road users/pedestrians, different lanes (bus, cycle etc), observing for hazards and building your confidence driving in busy traffic.
• Driving at night time. You will become more confident driving using headlights, distractions from other lights, carrying out manoeuvres in the dark and judging distance and other hazards in the dark.
• Driving on motorways. Despite learner drivers now being permitted to drive on motorways, you may not have had much experience driving on the motorway. Pass plus will take you through joining/exiting the motorway, lane discipline, how to deal with accidents/breakdowns on the motorway, reading and following signs and managing different speeds.
• Driving on dual carriageways. Whilst you will have driven on dual carriageways during your driving lessons (and may have driven on one during your test), the pass plus scheme will help you boost your confidence driving on the dual carriageway. You will also spend time building your experience of joining/exiting the dual carriageway using the sliproad, overtaking, lane discipline, keeping a safe distance from other vehicles and stopping distances.
• Driving on rural roads. You will learn about driving in the countryside including bends, narrow roads, slow vehicles, animals on the road, harder overtaking and sudden bends/dips in the road.
• Driving in different kinds of weather. You will learn about different weather conditions i.e heavy rain, wind, ice, snow etc and how these affect driving such as reduced visibility, increased stopping distance, risk of debris on the road and the risk of skidding and how to avoid this.

What are the advantages?

There are many advantages to taking part in the Pass Plus Scheme.

Cheaper Insurance

Some car insurance companies offer a discount if you have taken part in the Pass Plus Scheme and have a certificate of participation. The size of the discount may differ dependent on the insurance company and not all providers offer a discount. This is something you will need to check with them.

Improve your driving skills

Even though you have passed your test, you can still continue to improve your driving skills. Taking part in Pass Plus is a great way to further enhance your driving skills to help you become a safer and more confident driver.