Introduction
The Behaviour Change Programme (BCP) is a requirement for those convicted of an alcohol or drug-related offence and allows them to apply for a restricted driver’s licence. They must complete an approved BCP when the Registrar has revoked their license to ensure the authorities that they will drivesafe.
When should you join Behaviour Change Programme?
You will have six weeks from the date on your revocation notice before your licence is formally revoked; however, it is highly recommended that you take advantage of this period by enrolling in a course before. Once you have completed your course, you can apply for a full or restricted driver’s licence through the Motor Vehicle Registry Office at any time after those six weeks have expired.
Understand the sources of your inappropriate driving behaviour.
The Behaviour Change Programme will help you understand the sources of your inappropriate driving behaviour and develop strategies to enable you to change. You will be assessed on whether or not you are likely to commit further traffic offences and, if so, what offences they might be.
You’ll be given information about how your driving behaviour has affected others, particularly those in vulnerable road user groups such as cyclists and pedestrians. You’ll also learn about the consequences for other road users when drivers choose not to drive within the speed limit or follow road rules.
The modules.
If you are ready to stop driving irresponsibly and break the cycle, this programme could be for you. It’s not just about getting your license back, but it’s also about changing how you think about things and react to them. By the end of the programme, you should be able to make good decisions when driving again. Therefore, the programme consists of three modules:
- Module 1 – Improving attitude towards driving through self-awareness.
- Module 2 – Understanding others through empathy training.
- Module 3 – Practical application through role-play scenarios.
The length and cost of the programme.
The length and cost of the programme depend on which programme provider you choose. Some providers offer a free initial consultation to help you decide whether they suit your family. Some providers may offer discounts for multiple family members or packages suited to different types of licences:
- Short-Term Package – this is a 6-week programme aimed at those who have had their licence revoked recently but wish to get it back as soon as possible.
- Long-Term Package – This is an 18-month programme aimed at those who have had their licence revoked in the past five years but want a longer-term solution that will ensure they never lose their license again.
A formal assessment.
At the end of the programme, there is a formal assessment that you must pass for your licence to be returned, for which there are additional costs. The assessment is designed to test your driving, ability to drivesafe, and knowledge of traffic laws. It, therefore, requires that you be able to drive at varying speeds in different weather conditions.
You will also need to show basic car maintenance skills, such as changing a flat tyre and jump-starting a car. The assessment may take place in the classroom or on a driving course, depending on where it is offered. It will last approximately half an hour.
Conclusion
You will have six weeks from the date on your revocation notice before your licence is formally revoked, so it is essential that you start planning now to make sure you can have the best possible chance of getting back on the road again once this period ends.