In April 2009, a new testing regime for motorcyclists was introduced. The new test was based on European legislation, the Second EU Driving Licence Directive, originally adopted by EU Member States in 1991, and subsequently amended in 2000. Member States were required to transpose the Directive into national legislation and implement it fully by September 2008. The UK was unable to meet the deadline for implementation because of a failure to complete the required number of test centres on time. When the new test was finally introduced, it was met with intense criticism and safety concerns from motorcyclists and the rider training industry. It was reported that the test requirements were unrealistic and unhelpful and most importantly, that it put test riders’ safety at risk. The number of tests taken dropped dramatically in the first few months, and the industry suggested that the new test regime would threaten many small businesses and jobs.
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