Agency believes that use of technology could enable training to be offered ‘in a no risk environment’ while also expanding reach beyond current roster of 10 centres around the country

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency is planning to implement a driving simulator to enable it to expand its ability to recruit and train prospective examiners.

During the recruitment process, applicants to become driving-text examiners are required to undergo an assessment drive process which currently can only take place at one of the DVSA’s network of 10 training centres across the country. For successful candidates, this is followed by a six-week course comprising practical exercises and classroom learning.

In a recently published commercial notice, the DVSA reveals its interest in deploying simulated driving systems to allow training and assessments to take place in a wider variety of locations, and devoid of any of the dangers of the road.

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Although it is not yet committing to a undertaking a procurement, the agency wishes to engage with potential suppliers of a prototype platform.

“The requirement [is for] a prototype for a driving simulator that will replicate a practical in-car driving test to support new entrant driver examiner training,” the notice said. “It is hoped that a driving simulator will be able to assist in testing the abilities of the trainee driving examiners in a no-risk environment. This will aid training as a simulated test can run in different locations instead of the 10 current driver training centres.”

Interested providers are invited to attend an online event from 2-3.30pm on Tuesday 25 July. Those wishing to do so should send an email to dstcommercial@dvsa.gov.uk.

The DVSA has expanded its use of mobile technology and digital platforms in recent years, including equipping all driving-test examiners with iPads on which to make to complete their assessment – and instantaneously send results to the agency and the candidate.

DVSA enforcement staff have also been kitted out with a mobile app to enable them to quickly check vehicle information and status, while citizens can now also benefit from a range of online services designed to support them through a “lifetime of driving”.