Essential driver training takes effect for learner drivers from today

Following the RSA’s announcement about the new Graduated Driving Licensing system last September, the new Essential Driver Training (EDT) programme,  which requires learner drivers to take compulsory driving lessons for category B vehicles (cars and light vans) takes effect from today, April 4th.
What this means for learner drivers
What this means for a driver getting their first learning permit on or after today is that they are now oblidged to complete a minimum of 12 hours of essential driving training with an RSA registered Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) before sitting their driving test.  The 12, 1 hour sessions, will tackle 12 specific ‘high risk’ road safety issues to ensure that drivers are fully equipped to drive safely from the very beginning of their motoring careers.
This is potentially a very important milestone in Irish road safety terms and we join the RSA in their hopes that this new initiative will help to significantly reduce injuries and fatalities on our road network.  The programme will be closely monitored throughout its initial phase and a formal review carried out after 18 months.
As always we’re keen to get your thoughts.  Are you in favour or against this new programme?  Post us a comment and let us know.