What are the criteria for being offered the course?

The decision to offer a course is based upon sufficient evidence available to follow proceedings for "driving without due care and attention or reasonable consideration to other road users" contrary to section 3 of the Road Traffic Act of 1988.

In addition:

The driver must have a full license

There must not be any other offences to be dealt with by prosecution at the same time as the due care offence (i.e. no insurance)

The offer must not be made within 3 years of an offence that to a previous Driver Alertness Course.

Defaults or refusal would ordinarily be dealt with by prosecution for the original offence

What does the course consist of?

The current course will run for 6 hours and will consist of an in-class interactive workshop and an on-road practical session (using professional instructors in dual-controlled vehicles). Participants will receive a workbook to guide them through each element of the course and this is available to take away at the end.

By agreeing to attend the course you undertake to participate and successfully complete the course, which involves:

Attending both the theory and drive sessions.

Participating fully

Making a positive contribution to the course

Are there any tests to be undertaken?

The only test you are required to undertake is the eyesight test, with or without glasses, which is a statutory requirement to drive a motor vehicle on a public highway. You must be able to read a number plate in good daylight at a distance of 20.5 metres (67 feet) or 20 metres (65 feet) if it is a new style number plate.

Will I need to show my license?

All Course Providers have an obligation to check an individual's driving license when they undertake any form of practical driving assessment or training.

How important is it that I bring my driving license with me?

You will be required to present a full and valid drivers license (photocard and paper counterpart). If you do not have a photocard licence you must also bring some other form of photographic identification i.e. Passport. If you cannot supply these documents, you will be unable to attend the course.

Who provides the course?

Each Police Force will appoint a Course Provider in their area to deliver these courses. Many Course Providers will be members of the National Association of Driver Intervention Providers (NADIP).

This association ensures the quality and consistency of delivery of courses throughout the UK.

Hyperlink – Link to NDAC Course Provider [http://www.driver-improvement.co.uk/index.php/home/driver-alertness-course/ndac-service-providers]

How much does the course cost?

The fee charged by Course Providers may vary throughout the country. Please contact your local Course Provider for details. The fee is payable prior to attending the course and may, in certain circumstances, be payable by installments with the agreement of the Course Provider.

What if I have special needs?

If you have any special needs, to help you participate fully, you must ensure that you inform your preferred Course Provider of your requirements. It is your responsibility to inform your Course Provider at the time of booking your course. Every effort will be made to facilitate these needs.

How many people will be on the course?

There may be up to 24 people on the course.

What happens after the course?

Upon successful completion of the course the Course Provider returns the client's file to the relevant Police Force. The Police may notify the client that no further action will be taken in regard to that particular incident. The client's name will, however, be held on the Police NDORS database for a period of 3 years from the date of the offence. If a client is involved in another incident falling under the same criteria within this 3 year period they cannot be offered another Driver Alertness Course in lieu of Police proceedings.