The updated SOP can be found here
The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Car and Bike tests has been updated. There seems to be very little change if any that affects ADIs, and the key points appear to be as follows:
Waiting Rooms are open in most cases, but it appears restrictions will still be in place, including mask use (Unless exempt for good reason). Check with your LDTM for details.
Mask use is still mandatory on test. If a candidate is unable to wear one it must be pre-arranged at the time of booking.
In Scotland accompanying drivers must wear masks or tests will be refused.
Candidates will still be met in the car park, or outside the building if no car park is available.
ADIs are still not permitted to accompany tests. (DITC have raised that this would improve pass rates).
Candidates will be given an Insurance and Residency form to sign. Once signed the candidate will retain this form. (Candidates or ADIs to provide a pen where possible)
Cleaning of Cars
The SOP states
"You (The examiner) must be satisfied that the interior of the vehicle presented for test has been recently cleaned.
This means that they should have:
• tidied any unnecessary items away from the dashboard, footwells, door pockets, cup holders and seats
• wiped down the dashboard and car controls
The vehicle does not need to have had a full valet.
There may be leaves, grit or other dirt brought into the footwell of the vehicle from outside. This is acceptable.
Give the ADI and candidate a reasonable amount of time to take any actions to make the car clean. You should not turn away a test that could reasonably be conducted."
Ventilation, it states " Ventilation inside the vehicle during the test
The car must have at least one window open on each side throughout the test. Any combination of windows can be opened, for example, one from the front and back.
The windows do not have to be fully open. They need to be lowered enough to allow a good flow of air through the vehicle.
In bad weather Do not open the windows so far that the inside of the vehicle becomes overly wet or causes the candidate discomfort.
Candidates are being advised to wear clothing suitable for the weather.
Air conditioning, other ventilation systems and demisters can also be used, as long as they have a fresh air supply."
Curtailment of tests is continuing
Where a candidate fails the test either by committing a serious or dangerous fault or by making 16 driving faults, the candidate will be directed back to the test centre taking the most convenient route. (DITC have also raised that completing tests would improve pass rates).
Interesting point - Test writeups are being done using voice to text. Worth noting if you have reason to read one.
BSL (British Sign Language) Interpreters and allowed by prior arrangement and do not have to wear masks.
This is a brief summary and we recommend you read the full version to avoid confusion.