Learner drivers may soon have to drive to named destinations, such as a railway station or hospital using only road signs as part of their driving test.
The examiner would not give any directions, nor would the use of satellite navigation be permitted.
This is because the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) is looking at ways to enhance the 50-minute test, in order to improve road safety.
The DSA believes that learner drivers rarely go through all aspects of driving in their tuition or test, and so they may not be ready to drive alone at first. They also think learners may not be able to drive properly while following road signs or talking to passengers, even though they may know how to control the vehicle.
AA President, Edmund King, said such a test would push the current generation to the edge since they are so reliant on computers. Many young drivers rely so much on sat-nav that they can no longer drive safely while thinking about the route to take. The test will certainly become more demanding. However, Mr. King expressed some doubts since a candidate who knows the area well could have an advantage.
Driving instructors were also pleased about the possible change.
The Transport Research Laboratory is studying the results of tests at seven centres across the UK to determine how the test can be upgraded for the first time for many years.
A spokeswoman for the DSA confirmed that following road signs during the test was one of various ideas being looked at.
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