Learner drivers could be forced to take another test before getting licence

There are calls for learner drivers to take another test before getting their licence – to help save lives. Learner motorists are being told they may have to take a life-saving CPR test before they pass - because nine out of 10 people who have a cardiac arrest out of hospital die within a month.

Resuscitation Council UK said mandating training on chest compressions and defibrillators would boost the cardiac arrest survival rate. James Cant, chief of RCUK, said: “Evidence shows that increasing CPR knowledge and training in the community is an effective way to give people everywhere an equal chance of surviving a cardiac arrest.”

Mr Cant added: “A lack of public awareness that anyone can use a defibrillator, as well as not knowing where these devices are, is a major obstacle to increasing survival chances. We must ensure everyone, everywhere has bystander CPR training that is tailored to their needs and they understand that a defibrillator is there for them to use.”

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The NHS says on its website: "If you have been trained in CPR, including rescue breaths, and feel confident using your skills, you should give chest compressions with rescue breaths. If you're not completely confident, attempt hands-only CPR instead."

Responding to the calls, one driver said: "I think it's a decent idea, although CPR should be taught to everybody at school with occasional refreshers through life. My suggestion for the driving test should be that every 10 years after you get your full license, you should have a written test based on the highway code.

"Everybody should at least read it every few years." A second said: "I think its a good idea for everyone to have basic CPR training every so often - not sure why you would link it to a driving test though so I dont think thats a good idea."

"Other countries have it mandatory in education," another said.