Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

The technical checks, which have formed part of the driving test with effect from 14 February 2005, were introduced to meet our obligations under EU Directive 2000/56/EC on driver licensing. The technical checks involve candidates being asked to explain how he or she might carry out three out of a number of checks on the vehicle. If, for example, a person is asked to show how oil levels should be checked, it will be necessary to open the bonnet, point to the oil dipstick and explain how oil levels should be checked. A test candidate will not have to carry out the procedure but should know how to do so.

Additional technical checks relating principally to trucks and buses will be introduced when suitable off-road compounds become available at selected test centres throughout the country. The Office of Public Works, in consultation with my Department, is in the process of providing such compounds.

In tandem with the introduction of technical checks, the motorcycle driving test has been enhanced by the use of a radio link between the driver tester and candidate. This will allow for a better test experience. While the content of the driving test is kept under review, no further reforms of the driving test procedure are envisaged at present.

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