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.
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.
A risk-based approach was used 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. 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.
Who needs to do the EDT course?
All Learner permit holders issued on or after 4th April 2011.
What does it entail?
The 12 lessons in the Essential Driver Training (EDT) programme are designed to:
- help you prepare for the practical driving test
- cover some of the most important skills and behaviours (driving habits) that a learner driver must have;
- guide your progress
highlight the contribution the Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) and Sponsor (person who accompanies you while you’re practising) make to this process.
How much does it cost?
To complete the 12 lessons of the Essential Driver Training Course with Dragon Driver is €350 or €335 for Students
What is a sponsor?
Your Sponsor supervises your driving practice between lessons. To get the most from your driving lessons, you must practise, practise, practise and the best person to do this with is your Sponsor. This is a responsible role so you should choose someone that you feel comfortable with. This might be a family member, such as a parent, aunt or uncle. Your Sponsor must be able to give you the time and effort to help you to learn, without payment. Sponsors must hold a full car driving licence for at least two years but more importantly should have lots of driving experience that you can benefit from.
Your Sponsor should:
- understand and support the work of your Approved Driving Instructor (ADI)
- understand the difficulties you face while learningstay calm and patient under pressure
- demonstrate good driving behaviour themselves
- appreciate how important their role is
- take time to meet your ADI to discuss your progress.
You will get the best results when you, your ADI and your Sponsor work closely together.