Whether I’m on holiday or when I worked as a chauffeur, I’ve always loved driving. I’ve been lucky enough to drive around Australasia, the USA, and Europe. I’m also passionate about road safety, so it made sense to apply for a role as a driving examiner with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.
My driving examiner career began in 2012. It has provided me with so many opportunities. In addition to car tests, I also conduct HGV and bus tests, regularly travelling into London and throughout the south east of England.
Over the past decade, my role has evolved with the use of technology for both the examiner and the learner. I used to mark the learner on a paper form, now everything is done electronically which saves a lot of time!
As tests are marked digitally, customers are provided with instant feedback directly to their email address. 13 years down the line and I cannot believe I am being paid for doing something I enjoy!
Stuart Deal, Driving Examiner
A day in my life as a Driving Examiner
I arrive at work well before the first test, which is usually around 8am.
I check with colleagues about local traffic and recent road closures which may affect which routes tests may take.
Sometimes, we discuss the latest directives on vehicle adaptions and how we deal with these on tests, such as hill assist, reversing cameras and stop/start technology. I make sure I’m up to speed with how new technologies work.
In the morning, I carry out 4 driving tests that last approximately 40 minutes each, conducting a further 3 tests in the afternoon.
New entrants are contracted to work one Saturday every 5 weeks, with a day off during the week.
Each test is conducted on one of our pre-planned routes, varying throughout the day. The customer may be asked to follow road signs or follow directions on a sat nav. We also ask them to carry out a manoeuvre, such as a forward bay park, and 1 in 7 customers is asked to carry out an emergency stop.
Some customers are very nervous, so it’s really important that I make sure they feel comfortable and at ease during the test. I enjoy meeting so many different people each day and knowing that what I do makes a difference to their lives.
At the end of the test, I provide detailed feedback, irrespective of the result.
I will always invite the customer’s instructor to listen to the feedback, as this helps the customer to improve or enhance their skills for a lifetime of safe driving.
Why would you recommend becoming a driving examiner?
I’d recommend becoming a driving examiner if, like me, you are passionate about driving and road safety. There are many opportunities for professional development and growth, as well as flexibility within the role! It’s very rewarding to know that my work improves peoples’ lives, as well as directly contributing to the safety of our roads.
Are you ready to start your journey as a Driving Examiner?
Our roles offer comprehensive training and the chance to make a real difference to road safety.
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