Insurers could get access to DVLA Database

Motor insurers could be given access to Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency records, Mike Penning, the road safety minister, has told MPs.

Appearing before the Transport Select Committee, Mr Penning said the Government was looking at giving insurers greater access to motorists’ driving record.

Because of data protection laws, a driver’s consent would be required before the DVLA opens its records to insurance companies.

One option being considered by ministers would be to allow companies to include a request for access to the DVLA database on the insurance proposal form.

They would be free to decline insurance to a driver who was not prepared to allow insurers to obtain information on any previous motoring convictions.

In a separate move learner drivers could be allowed on motorways, Mr Penning told the Committee.

He said he is examining ways of ensuring that novice motorists are capable of handling fast motorway traffic.

One option under consideration would be to allow them onto these roads under supervision from a qualified instructor ahead of taking the test. An alternative would be compulsory motorway training for newly licenced drivers.