The Introduction of Essential Driver Training

In April 2011 the new initiative of graduated licensing for learner drivers commenced in Ireland and saw the introduction of the EDT [Essential Driver Training]. As of the 4th of April 2011 the RSA requires all learner drivers wishing to sit their driving test to obtain a certificate from their registered RSA instructor.

This certificate can be signed off in effect after 12 one hour lessons have been taken following a specific driving syllabus. Akin to that the RSA stipulate that these 12 lessons be taken during a six month period during which the test can not be sat. Keep in mind that the 12 hour syllabus will be in addition to private practice hours that will be needed to reach the standard required to pass the driving test.

The EDT program is intended to cover many of the crucial skills needed to become a safe and competent driver and to help guarantee learners applying to sit the driving test have reached a satisfactory standard.

Why do I need EDT?

Studies show that young, inexperienced drivers are more likely to be involved in serious collisions. [EDT] is one of several measures the RSA have introduced to help improve critical driving knowledge, behaviour and driving skills.

What does EDT involve?

At your first EDT lesson, and each lesson thereafter, your Driving Instructor will check your learner permit, and if you are using your own car, will check to make sure your insurance, motor tax, NCT and the roadworthiness of the vehicle are all in order.

Your Driving Instructor will give you a logbook with your name, address, date of birth and learner permit driver number. You should bring this logbook to each lesson and make sure all the appropriate sections are filled out after each lesson.

EDT lessons timeline

~ Lessons 1 to 8 must be taken in sequence, but lessons 9 to 12 may be taken in any order.
~ Each of the 12 lessons in EDT lasts about one hour.
~ It is recommended that you leave about two weeks between each EDT lesson to allow for further instruction, practice and learning.
~ The EDT course is best spread out over six months.

What do the lessons cover?

Each of the EDT lessons has particular objectives. You should prepare for each lesson using the EDT Course Syllabus.

Click Here for a detailed breakdown of the RSA Essential Driver Training [EDT] Syllabus.

The 12 lessons are titled:

LESSON 1: CAR CONTROLS AND SAFETY CHECKS
LESSON 2: CORRECT POSITIONING (Part I & II)
LESSON 3: CHANGING DIRECTION
LESSON 4: PROGRESSION MANAGEMENT
LESSON 5: CORRECT POSITIONING (Part I & II)
LESSON 6: ANTICIPATION AND REACTION
LESSON 7: SHARING THE ROAD
LESSON 8: DRIVING SAFELY THROUGH TRAFFIC
LESSON 9: CHANGING DIRECTION (MORE COMPLEX SITUATIONS)
LESSON 10: SPEED MANAGEMENT
LESSON 11: DRIVING CALMLY
LESSON 12: NIGHT DRIVING

ESSENTIAL DRIVER TRAINING

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