As we had some queries from members about the forthcoming timing study, we wrote to DVSA to ask for further details. This is their reply –

Notices will be placed in test centre waiting rooms to inform customers, particularly ADI’s, to the upcoming timing study.

Mark Winn, Chief Driving Examiner, has given formal approval to allow the timing study to go ahead and officers of the Agency and timing engineers acting on behalf of the Agency, to accompany driving examiners on test to capture the relevant information. The timing engineers will be considered as ‘operational staff’ and therefore would not be expected to withdraw from accompanying a test on the request of the ADI unless there are exceptional circumstances. Whilst we consider this event to be rare, the timing engineers will be trained to avoid confrontation and to step away should the candidate raise a reasonable objection to their presence, however it is vitally important that the correct amount and level of information is gained from these studies.

The accompanying of driving tests by officers of the Agency is covered in the DT1 and they would not be expected to withdraw from accompanying a driving test. However to cover your question with regards to route learning, training etc, if a reasonable objection is raised then operational staff will withdraw from accompanying the test.

I agree that most ADI’s will explain the purposes and benefits of the timing study to their pupils. I also hope that you and your members will be supportive of our work and realise that this timing study is important to help provide the necessary overview of last year’s changes to the driving test, and helps to ensure it remains as efficient and effective as possible; any efficiencies gained will be beneficial to your members, as well as driving examiners.