Essential Driver Training (EDT) Cork - Top Gear School of Motoring
From 4th April 2011, the new Essential Driver Training ( EDT ) programme has been introduced. This requires learner drivers to take compulsary driving lessons for category B ( cars and light vans ).
Any person with a Learners Permit with a start date on or after 4th April 2011 must complete a minimum 12 hours of Essential Driver Training, with an RSA registered Approved Driving Intructor ( ADI ) before they can sit their driving test. Typically the 12 EDT lessons will be spread over six months and must be supported by practice and tuition as required.
The programme consists of 12 one hour lessons that are linked to 12 specific “ high risk “ road safety issues and will start the learner driver off on the road to becoming a better, safer driver. Applying the feedback of your ADI, getting lots of practice ( through constructive driving with your Sponsor or additional driving lessons should the Sponsor option not be feasible and studying the recommended reading are all vital).
In addition to the mandatory lessons with an ADI, the learner should undertake ongoing practice with their Sponsor which will need to be recorded in your learner logbook. This practice is a vital part of the learning process, and the role of the Sponsor is an essential part of the learning to drive process. Their role is to accompany and support the learner driver as they practice and build on the skills they have learned in their lessons with the ADI. Therefore it is essential that the learner driver chooses a person with whom they feel comfortable and who has had their full driver’s licence for a minimum of two years and has lots of driving experience. The RSA recommends that the learner driver practices the skills learned in each compulsary EDT lesson with their Sponsor for at least three hours before their next lesson.
17 – 24 year olds are one of the highest risk groups on Irish roads and are three times more likely to be killed in a collision than the rest of the population. Furthermore, research shows that young drivers are most vulnerable in the six to twelve month period immediately after getting their licence.
Top Gear School of Motoring is an approved instructor for the EDT program in Cork and has a number of options available to help you to complete the Essential Driver Training Program.