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Why aren't drivers tested regularly like airline pilots?

I believe that drivers could be tested and retrained given the political will - but we know that this is sadly lacking for anything the least bit controversial. Just as airline pilots are regularly tested on simulators, so too could drivers be, say, once every three years. The cost should properly fall on the driver.

Asked on 17 November 2012 by RS, St Leonards, Gloucester

Answered by Honest John
Let's see, now: 30,000,000 drivers. Retested every three years reduces the number to 10,000,000 drivers a year. 250 working days a year. Maximum five tests a day, so 8000 examiners required of a standard capable of testing the drivers. 8000 x £50,000 a year salary, pension, NIC, etc = £40,000,0000. Potential revenue from the tests at £100 a test = £1,000,000,000. Subtract typical annual costs of test centres and admin = £500,000,000. Subtract annual costs of training and re-testing the examiners = £8,000,000. Subtract ridiculous but typical annual salaries of 10 top executives = £200,000,000.

Yes, could be do-able. Could even make a profit. And would provide employment for all the police officers being made redundant now that the Olympics are over.
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