New proposals to change the way people are taught to drive and cut the number of accidents involving young drivers were announced in Cardington yesterday.

Transport secretary Ruth Kelly outlined changes to driving lessons and tests as well as a new qualification on safe road use, which will be taught in schools, when she visited The Driving Standards Agency Centre.

Children as young as 14 years will be taught about the Highway Code, road attitude, fatigue, peer pressure and eco-driving, which will earn them a vocational qualification similar to an NVQ and save them money on their car insurance.

Other ideas include post-test courses in motorway use, a driving test syllabus setting out exactly what is needed to become a safe driver, a revised test format including the option of modular assessment, and partial retakes.

A review of driving instructor training, and a star-rating system, were also suggested – so learners can make an informed choice based on experience and pass rates.

A public consultation will now run until September 8 to allow people to comment on the new proposals. If given the go-ahead, the changes could be made in autumn.

For more information visit www.dsa.gov.uk/consultations