Learner women drivers taking their full practical tests will face tougher safety questions after examiners unveiled new guidelines.

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) said it was moving the questions asked at the start of tests "up a gear" to improve driver skills.

From July, male and female learners will have to prove their knowledge of systems like fog lights and ABS brakes before starting the driving section of the full exam.

Chief DSA examiner Trevor Wedge said: "The extra questions reflect the need to be able to show a basic knowledge about the various safety checks a driver should make."

Female motorists working towards a full licence will face the same number of questions on test day, but will now also have to know more about mechanisms like warning lights and demisters.

Earlier this month, the Department for Transport unveiled plans to radically overhaul the practical test to increase road safety.

Proposals now out to consultation include modular testing and a greater range of advanced driving courses.

Young women drivers could get car insurance discounts for successfully gaining advanced qualifications as part of planned incentives.

Find out how foxy lady drivers run safer cars.

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