More than half of motorists want changes to driving tests that make roads safer, study shows

More than half of motorists are in favour of changes to the driving test that improve road standards.

A recent poll also showed support for frequent updates to the test and regular retesting.

Participants felt the test should reflect new automotive technologies and changing driving practices, a study of 2,000 motorists revealed.

The research was released by Continental Tyres as a new driving test came into force on Monday amid a row that saw thousands of exams cancelled.

The study found that motorists believed there should be retests every five years to improve road safety and cope with new automotive technologies.

This would mean drivers would have to take the test at least 12 times during their lifetime, researchers estimated based on the average UK life expectancy of 81 years old.

Updates to the driving test on Monday included an increased independent driving time, taking directions from a sat nav and different driving manoeuvres.

But the controversial move led to a two-day strike by driving examiners on Monday, who said examiners were told to work longer, harder and for no extra pay when the new tests are announced.

Around 10,000 driving tests were for the duration of the strike, according to the Public and Commercial Services Union.

The new exam marks the eighth revision to the practical test since it was introduced in 1935.

Now research revealed that nearly half of participants agreed that the driving test should be updated often to account for new vehicle technologies and driving practices.