Pass Plus - An Important Part of Learning to Drive

Pass Plus has become ever less popular in the last 5 years or so. But it should still be seen as vital when learning to drive. I can understand why as who wants to continue paying for lessons after they have passed? I was the same. I didn't want to be told what to do anymore, I had my licence and now I was free. However, it is becoming an even more important part of developing your driving skills on our roads today than ever.

The Pass Plus scheme can only be taken once you have passed your test. It is designed to build on what you have already learnt, by driving on more advanced roads, namely motorways and narrow country lanes. Your instructor will be looking at increasing awareness and anticipation as well as encouraging a good attitude towards the dangers literally around each corner and, other road users. These are esential considering the high speeds at which you will be travelling.

The course is not pass or fail. There are no more tests to be taken and so should be relaxing and fun. You complete 6 hours of driving in different conditions including town driving, rural roads, night driving, dual carriageways, motorways, and in all weathers. At the start of your course, your instructor will give you a copy of the 'Pass Plus Pupil's Guide'. This contains detailed information about all aspects of Pass Plus so you know what to expect. Pass Plus is a practical course and all modules should be practical sessions, but obviously the weather really does depend on the time of year, but if you're not lucky enough to experience sun, rain, wind, snow, ice, hurricaines and toradoes all within your 6 hours(!), then your driving instructor will cover these with you verally.

You will travel much further afield than on your normal lessons. I usually advise to either take two 3 hour lessons, or three 2 hour. The 3 hour lessons I find particulary benefitial as you can travel a large distance. It is surprising how much road layouts differ in towns and cities even just 10 to 20 miles away, and can be very confusing. You will learn the ability of thinking fast and acting safely.

Your instructor will complete a training report form that you’ll sign and date when you reach the required standard in each module. For them to do so you would need to have shown to have reached a good standard in all the course modules. You’ll be given a progress record to help you to keep track of your progress throughout the course.
Even after this relitively short course, my new drivers are driving like much more experienced ones who can deal with many more situations than before. Adding to this you can normally get this course for FREE. After your initial expense, most insurance companies do give a premium discount once completed, and it will almost always at least cover the cost of the course. And this will be for your first two years of driving, so two years of insurance savings. For the sake of being a better safer driver when you are driving yourself and family or friends, this course can literally be a life safer.

JV