Essential Driver Training explained by the RSA (Road Safety Authority)
What is EDT?
EDT stands for Essential Driver Training, a course for learner drivers with permits for category B vehicles, such as cars and light vans. EDT will help you learn some of the most vital driving skills as well as improve your knowledge and understanding of road safety.
We have developed this course from the Learner Driver Training (LDT) syllabus, which covers all of the skills and behaviours that a competent driver needs to have. During your training, your ADI will refer to this syllabus. You can view it at any time at www.rsa.ie.
There are 12 one-hour lessons in the course. Appendix A in the EDT Information booklet has the syllabus for each of the lessons and explains what you should expect from each lesson. You must take the lessons in the order set out but by the time you get to Lesson 9, you and your ADI can decide on the order of lessons 9-12 as you should have enough experience by then. Your ADI will record each lesson in your Logbook.
Each lesson has a set of expected outcomes – these describe what you should be able to do at the end of a lesson. Your ADI will select routes that will allow you to use the skills covered in the lesson. At the end of each lesson, your ADI will tell you what skills you should practise with your Sponsor. You must play your part and prepare for the next lesson.
Remember – the EDT course alone is not enough to make you a competent driver. You will need to practise as much as possible with your Sponsor, using the skills you have learnt in one lesson to prepare for the next lesson. To get the best from your training, you should spread your lessons over six months and leave at least two weeks between each lesson for practice. Your ADI and your Sponsor will advise you about other instruction and support you may need while you learn to drive.
Why do I need to do EDT?
Studies show that young, inexperienced drivers are more likely to die or be seriously injured in a crash so it’s important to get the experience you need during your training. We have used a risk-based approach to develop the EDT course. This means that it focuses on learning the skills, understanding and behaviours you will need to deal with the hazards you will face when driving. We know this will make a big difference to road safety.
The course means that the training you receive from your ADI and Sponsor will be consistent, and this will help you to become a safe and responsible driver. Their role is to develop your skills and good road behaviour so that it becomes a lifelong habit.
You must complete the EDT course before you can take your driving test. On the day of your test, the tester may ask to see your Logbook as evidence.
Preparing for your first lesson
When you contact an ADI, ask them for advice on how to prepare for the EDT course. They may suggest you do some reading, lessons or practice before you begin EDT. If you follow your ADIs advice and practise driving with your Sponsor between your lessons, you should be able to achieve the expected outcomes set out in each lesson plan.
These booklets are good resources for learning:
- The Rules of The Road
- Learning to Drive manual
- EDT Logbook
Before you attend your first lesson, make sure you have everything you need. Your ADI will check your learner permit. If you provide the vehicle for your training, they will also check insurance, motor tax, NCT and the roadworthiness of the vehicle. If your ADI is not happy with any of these, they may not go ahead with your lesson. You must sign a declaration that these are in order before each lesson.
At your first lesson, your ADI will register you and give you your Logbook. They will then set out the aims of the course and any rules about things such as asking questions and taking breaks.
At the end of each lesson, your ADI will sign and stamp your Logbook to confirm you have completed that lesson. They will also give you feedback on whether you met the outcomes for the lesson. They will advise you on what you need to practise and how to prepare for the next lesson.Where can I practise my driving?
With a learner permit, you can drive on most roads in the Irish Republic but you are not allowed on a motorway. Your ADI or Sponsor must be with you at all times. Your Sponsor should always choose a practice area that is suited to your driving ability. They can ask your ADI for suggestions. Don’t practise in heavy or fast traffic until you are confident enough to follow the pace of traffic.
What happens when I finish EDT?
This does not mean that you are finished learning – it just means you have the skills to continue learning. Safe practice of what you have learnt during the course will help you to develop the skills to be a safe and competent driver. You should practise these every time you drive with your Sponsor. Try to get as much practice as you can on different types of roads and in different traffic conditions.
To prepare for your driving test, keep a learning frame of mind as you practise. You can do more training with your ADI and your Sponsor. A mix of formal and informal training is a good way to develop your driving skills and risk awareness. Discuss the risks and how to reduce them with your ADI and Sponsor to help you learn more quickly and effectively.
