The “Multiphase Education” (MPE)

The Austrian multiphase programme started on January 1, 2003 on an obligatory basis. For the multiphase programme to become politically acceptable, the new programme could not cost more than the original ‘first-phase’ driving test. As a result, the basic minimum training requirement for the theory test was reduced to 32 hours (from 40) and for the practical test to 18 (instead of 20). The costs for the additional phases are as follows: track training: 109 Euro; psychological group discussion: 26,40 Euros; feedback drives: normal price for driving lessons.

In the new multiphase programme there are three training modules during the year following the driving test (see description of modules). If the novice driver fails to attend one or more of these three modules, he will receive an automatic warning from the authorities. Within four months, his/her licence will be withdrawn. The purpose of the feedback drives (on-road) is to train more advanced skills than in the driving test: hazard perception, social interaction, observing other road users and discussion of their behaviour.

The post-licence period in Austria includes a probation period of two years, during which novice drivers must not commit any serious offences such as speeding, drunk driving, overtaking where not allowed and driving through red lights. If this happens, the driver must undergo a psychological examination and is subject to a one year extension of his/her probation period.

Description of modules
The aim of the “Multiphase Education” (MPE) in Austria is to build a harmonious continuum in driver training (different steps – but on one and the same ladder). This continuum contains on the one hand already implemented models like the driving school education and driving test, and on the other hand new models, such as feedback driving in traffic, road safety training on track, and further education in the psychological aspects of traffic.

The already implemented modules have been improved by intensifying a number of road safety issues (e.g. driving through tunnels, fitness to drive, etc.). The new models have been developed following experiences in other countries.

A general overview of the multiphase education for category B drivers is presented below:

Already implemented modules

• Driving school education.
• Theoretical and practical exam
• Driving licence on probation for two years and 0,1‰ BAC-limit

New modules

• First feedback in road traffic (within two to four months, two driving sessions of 50 minutes each)
• Road safety training and further psychological education (within three to nine months, all-day)
• Second feedback in road traffic (within six to twelve months, two driving sessions at 50 minutes each)
• Probation period finishes after two years, provided no serious offences have been committed.

The timeframe within which each individual module must be completed offers enough flexibility for the candidate to choose when to take each part. However, he must respect the overall timeframe and for this reason the sequencing of each module has been laid down by law.

Multiphase education for category A (motorcycles)
The multiphase education applies also to novice motorcyclists. However, the NovEV project relates only to category B drivers so no further explanation of the motorcycling education is required here.

Driving license with “L17” training
In Austria, young learner drivers also have the option of taking the L17 model. According to this model, drivers can begin their training already at 16 years old, instead of the usual 18. Training is a carefully structured balance of driving school education and lay instruction (covering a minimum of 3000 km driven before the test is taken).

Already implemented modules

• Extensive driving education at the age of 16 to 17 with the sign „L17 trainee drive”
• Theoretical and practical test over the age of 17
• Probationary driving licence until the age of 18

New modules

• Road safety training and further psychological education (within 12 months, all-day, generally taken between 17 and 18 years)
• Simultaneously: Removal of the L17 speed-limit and the obligation to show “L17” sign
• Feedback in road traffic (within 6 to 12 months, two driving sessions of 50 min.)
• Over the age of 18: Two further years of probation time and 0,1 ‰ BAC-limit
• Probation period finishes after 2 years, provided no serious offences have been committed