Despite the pandemic, many Aussies are doing their best to adhere to the new normal. One of the adjustments is driving lesson packages and licencing. Many schools and courses remain open and committed to providing the highest quality driver amid Covid-19.
How much has changed? Here are the new guidelines to keep you and the instructors healthy and safe during these trying times.
COVID-19 Guidelines For Driving Courses
In response to health advice regarding the risks associated with COVID-19, restrictions were placed on community activities. Driving schools and other establishments can still operate as long as they adhere to safety guidelines:
- Access and manage the risk of COVID-19 to workers and others in the work environment
- Follow all NSW Health guidelines for hygiene practices and physical distancing requirements.
- Service providers and students must wear a mask where physical distancing isn’t possible.
- Classes will be held with limited seating at least 1.5 metres apart to maintain social distancing.
- Instructors or students who are unwell or exhibit symptoms of any sickness must report it and refrain from attending courses.
- Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 or who’s been in contact with someone who tested positive and needs self-isolation guidelines.
Keep in mind that booking process times may take longer due to reduced capacity. Check with your region to find out what locations are available.
Safer Drivers Course
As an alternative to traditional training, schools are offering the Safer Drivers Course. It’s designed to work in conjunction with the current NSW learner logbook system and is available in participating regions.
The Safer Drivers Course can be found in the approved venues where COVID-19 contingency plans are in place. These are the guidelines for how it works and ensures safety before, during, and after their lessons.
Module 1: Theory
The beginning of the course takes place in the classroom where all students will be seated at least 1.5 metres apart and be provided with hand sanitiser. There you’ll sign the COVID-19 waiver, which you’ll need to bring to your module 2 session along with your module 1 workbook.
Module 2: Practical
Your module 2 is the practical part of your training where you’ll apply what you learned from Module 1. Before you start, your coach is required to arrive five minutes earlier to disinfect the interior and exterior of the car, as well as frequently touched areas such as controls and handles.
Both parties will have hand sanitiser available before you hand over the signed COVID-19 waiver. Due to the nature of the practical lessons, it’s impossible to social distance in the car, which is why it’s more important than ever to wear protective face masks. Once the session is over, your coach is required to disinfect the car after you leave in preparation for the next student.
How To Stay Safe During Courses And Licencing
Are you ready to attend lessons and become a safe driver? Do your part to flatten the curve by:
- Avoid touching your face, wear a face mask and carry and use sanitiser often.
- Perform tasks such as registration and payment online whenever possible.
- Complete health assessment before booking and postpone courses or testing if you feel unwell.
- Inform staff if your coach is exhibiting any symptoms so they can find another instructor or reschedule your session.
- If you are feeling unwell, are a confirmed case, entered in contact with anyone that tested positive, or recently travelled in a COVID-19 hotspot, inform your staff. Prioritise your health and the well-being of others by testing and self-isolating. You can always return to your course when you’re in the clear.
Summary
Driving schools in Australia and around the world are doing everything they can to carry on with courses without putting anyone at risk. While the experience may not be what you imagined before the pandemic, you can still get started on working toward your licence today.