What are the criteria for being offered the course?

The decision to offer a course is based upon sufficient evidence to prosecute 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 licence

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 leading to a previous Driver Improvement Course.

Defaults or refusal would ordinarily result in the driver being prosecuted for the original offence.

How long is the course?

One and a half days

What does attending the course involve?

The course is of one and a half days duration, designed to provide the client with a mixture of driving theory, delivered on the first morning of the course and practical on- road tuition which follows the theory session. Both elements combine modern training methods linked with the latest thinking on defensive driving techniques. By agreeing to attend the course the client undertakes to participate and successfully complete the course, which involves,

Attending both the theory and drive sessions.

Completing all course paperwork.

Making a positive contribution to the course

Demonstrating a willingness to improve your driving

Are there any tests to be undertaken?

The only test required is an eyesight test, 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 with or without glasses 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 licence?

All Course Providers have an obligation to check an individual's driving licence when they undertake any form of practical driving assessment or training. If you have a photo card licence, then you must ensure that the photo card part has not expired. Failure to do so will result in you not being able to complete the course.

Who will be attending the courses?

A complete cross section of the general public attends the courses, which are specifically aimed at those referred by the Police.

What if I have specific needs?

Prior to attending a course you will be asked by the Course Provider, to indicate if you have any specific needs that will have to be taken into consideration in order to insure that you can fully participate in the course. Every effort will be made to facilitate these needs.

Who provides the course?

The Driver Improvement Course is only provided in Scotland. The Course Provider is BSM. They can be contacted on 0845 345 7283.

How much does the course cost?

GBP190.00

Can I do a similar course outside of Scotland i.e. the Driver Alertness Course?

There are no arrangements in place to allow you to complete a NDIS course outside of Scotland.

What happens after the course?

Upon successful completion of the course the Course Provider returns the client's file to the Procurator Fiscals Office in Scotland for ‘No Further Action’. If a client is involved in another incident or crash within this three year period they cannot be offered another Driver Improvement Course or Driver Alertness Course in other parts of the UK in lieu of Police proceedings.