DRIVING tests are set to undergo its most significant shake up since the written theory exam was introduced in 1996.

The practical test has been changed to make it a more realistic assessment of learners' driving ability.

From today (MON) the length of independent driving is being doubled to 20 minutes and candidates will have to follow directions from a sat nav.

Some manoeuvres,such as reversing around a corner, are being replaced by more common scenarios like entering a parking bay.

Learners will also have to answer a vehicle safety question while driving, for example telling the examiner how they would wash the windscreen using the car's controls and wipers.

The Department for Transport figures show that younger drivers are up to seven times more likely to be killed or seriously injured on Britain's roads compared with those over 25.

It is believed that their lack of experience is an important factor.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency's (DVSA) chief driving examiner, Lesley Young, said: "The new test will help prepare new drivers for driving on modern roads and support a reduction in the number of young people killed or seriously injured.

"From next year learners will be allowed to take motorway driving lessons with an approved instructor.

"We'll continue to explore opportunities to further develop driver training and testing to make sure the driving test reflects real life driving."

The modifications to the test which came into force from today were welcomed by driving experts and road safety groups.

AA president Edmund King added that the new test "now reflects real life driving" and predicted that people who pass it will have "more confidence when driving solo".