Trainin g: Licences/ tests/diabetics
Page 32
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
Driving licence fees
New regulations* bring into effect revised driving licence fees from 1 July 1998 (Haulage Bulletin December 1997). These provide for:
• A £6 charge for the grant of a first full licence in Category C or D; • Increasing the charge for replacing a lost or defaced licence to £11; • Increasing renewal fees. For example, the fee rises to £17 for issuing a provisional HGV or PCV licence to a disqualified driver who is required to take a new test (Road Traffic Act 1988, Section 117 or 117A).
* Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) (No 3) Regulations 1998 (SI 1998 No 1229) is available from the Stationery Office, priced LL55.
Testing Times The DOT is to consult on improving the system of truck and bus driver training. Unlike car and motorcycle training, this is not currently regulated.
The DOT proposes: • A statutory register of instructors; • A formal syllabus; and • That bus and and truck learner drivers may only be accompanied by someone who has held an appropriate licence for at least three years.
Waterbeach LGV Test Centre The Driving Standards Agency has permanently closed the Waterbeach LGV driving test centre (which has been temporarily closed on health and safety grounds since 27 February).
Diabetic lorry drivers
The Department of Transport is consulting on proposals to allow some insulin-dependent diabetic drivers to drive 3.5-7.5-tonne trucks. Such drivers will be able to apply to renew their Cl entitlement if they pass an annual assessment by a diabetic specialist and meet stringent criteria to show their diabetes is well controlled.
Contact: Harry Martin at the DOT, phone 0171 676 2204. Comments on the proposals should be received by 10 July 1998.