New powers to protect learner drivers

D riving instructors who pose a significant threat to public safety will face immediate suspension under new legislation that was put forward in Parliament yesterday.

The registrar is likely to exercise the suspension power in cases where instructors have been convicted of a violent or sexual offence or are delivering tuition of a dangerously low standard, while the formal removal or revocation processes are being completed.

Under the current legislation, it takes a minimum of 45 days to prevent an instructor from continuing to give paid driving instruction.  However, from 13 July, the registrar of approved driving instructors will have the power to immediately suspend the registration or trainee licence of an instructor who presents a significant danger to the safety of the public.