From today driving test candidates will have to drive "independently" for a period without getting step-by-step directions from their examiner.

With set routes no longer being published online, candidates will be asked to follow, for around 10 minutes, a route that they will be shown in advance.

However, the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) has made it clear that candidates can ask for reminders of their route as they drive and they will not be failed for going off route.

Another change to the test from today will mean that candidates will only have to complete one of the three reversing manoeuvres, instead of two at present.

Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said: "The independent driving assessment gives test candidates the chance to show they have the necessary skills to cope with the sort of traffic conditions they will face every day.

"Learning those skills from the very start of the driving process will help make new drivers safer."

DSA's chief driving examiner, Trevor Wedge, said: "The aim of independent driving is to assess the candidate's ability to drive safely while making decisions independently. It's not a test of navigation and candidates won't be failed for going off route.

"The test is being improved to help produce safer drivers, but that doesn't mean it's getting any harder. We know many instructors are already teaching independent driving."

AA Driving School director Simon Douglas said: "We welcome the introduction of independent driving, which will help ensure the test is about being a good driver, not just knowing the test route."

Peter Rodger, chief examiner of the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists), said: "This is a good step forward. All new drivers have to learn that multi-tasking - controlling the car, looking out for hazards and planning ahead while navigating - is an integral part of day-to-day driving."

He went on: "Our own research has shown that two-thirds of fatal accidents in England happen on rural roads, and this figure rises to three-quarters for Scotland and Wales.

"At present rural roads are not a compulsory element of the test, and we feel that considering the size of the problem it is an area that should be the next focus for continuous improvement."

Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said: "We want all new drivers to be able to drive safely and independently and are considering how both training and testing can be improved to achieve this.

"Today (Monday) sees the introduction of a new independent driving element to the driving test, allowing candidates to demonstrate their ability to drive safely in more realistic situations without detailed instructions from the examiner. This will better prepare all new drivers for life on the road."