The FCA is investigating the use of discretionary commissions arrangements between motor finance providers and brokers. Specialist Motor Finance have never used discretionary commission arrangements, as such none of our customers are impacted. Our agreements state that we pay a commission to our brokers but there is no discretion for the broker to impact the customer rate.

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3rd June 2020

What learning to drive following the easing of lockdown could look like

As the UK continues to tackle the spread of Coronavirus, plans, celebrations, holidays and much more have been put on hold for the time being to ensure the public can comply with current restrictions. This has included all those fledgling drivers out there, that have been unbale to continue with their lessons and take their driving test.

learning to drive during lockdown

With the UK public advised to stay at home, driving instructors have been unable to continue providing lessons to students. With this driving tests have been suspended for three months (from 20th March 2020), with theory tests also suspended until the 31st May 2020.

Learners have also been advised against continuing their learning with their parent or guardian. Not only would this lead to unnecessary traffic on the road without the safety net of dual controls, but this is the perfect way for learners to gain bad driving habits.

There are some exceptions to these restrictions however; those classed as critical workers can still apply for an emergency driving test, these include:

  • Health and social care workers
  • Transport
  • Public safety and national security
  • Key public services
  • Food and necessary goods
  • Utilities, communications and financial services
  • Local and national government
  • Education and childcare

But as lockdown is eased, what does this mean for learner drivers?

Once lessons are able to recommence, you may find that countless learners will be raring to get started, but we expect there to be some precautions put in place to protect both instructor and learner. Most importantly both parties must ensure they are symptom free when a lesson is scheduled, with cars sanitised after each and every lesson.

When the three-month suspension period draws to a close, we don’t expect the Government to automatically allow for tests to recommence. We suspect that a thorough analysis will take place with regards to the risks associated and whether it is safe to allow tests to once again take place, before either giving approval or extending the suspension.