Driving Instructors Face 50 Hours' Study
Sydney Morning Herald
Thursday July 25, 1991
The State's 2,600 driving instructors will have to spend up to 50 hours studying the theory behind their job before they can stay on the road.
The Government has introduced a new training course in commercial driving instruction which instructors have to complete within three years.
Instructors who do not do the 50-hour theory course and an extra practical component will not be eligible for a licence.
The change follows an inquiry by the Independent Commission Against Corruption into the industry.
A spokeswoman for TAFE - which developed the course with the industry, the police and the NRMA - said it would weed out those whose skills were not up to scratch or who were not committed to the industry.
"Only people who are really serious about getting into the industry will want to participate in this course," Ms Carol Benn said.
Previously, anyone over 21 could become an instructor after passing a knowledge and driving test.
The course covers stress management, teaching techniques, time management, driver safety, communication and road skills. The instructors will also have to complete a set of practical tests.
© 1991 Sydney Morning Herald
