Background - The Defensive Driving Course was developed primarily for Class 1 and 6 Restricted Driver Licence holders. For drivers/ riders under 25 years, satisfactory completion of the Course provides up to 6 months off the 18 month Restricted period. Note: Students under 25 years must have held their Restricted Licence for at least six months prior to undertaking the Course. For drivers/ riders over 25 years, the time reduction is up to 3 months off the 6 month period, and the course can be completed any time after having gained the Restricted Licence.

Content - The Course is theory based, however there is ample opportunity for interaction and discussion group‑work based on the Course DVD’s, starter pictures and overhead transparencies. Course content includes risk management, visual perception, rating risk, the 6 conditions associated with hazards, managing the driving task, pre‑trip planning, anger management, risk reduction strategies, fatigue / alcohol / drugs/ other harmful substances, vehicle control, searching and scanning techniques, 2, 4 & 12 second rules, intersections, collision avoidance, vehicle positioning and goal setting. A Completion Certificate is provided when all requirements have been fulfilled.

On completion of the Course participants will own a comprehensive workbook, be able to demonstrate an ability to anticipate / recognise driving hazards, describe the most appropriate response(s) and apply these in a timely manner.

The Course involves four x 2 hours theory sessions (a total of 8 hours) plus a 1 hour practical driving session conducted inthe student's own vehicle.

Note: These courses run regularly at Hamilton's Fraser High school as part of Community Education. Periodically these Courses also run in the day time during school holidays. Courses alternate Monday / Wednesday or Tuesday / Thursday.

Course fee = $175 per person including the practical driving assessment conducted in the students own vehicle.

The current Defensive Driving workbook as provided to course participants