I think OP’s idea is way over the top, especially with the permaban for failing a test. There are two valid points, however:

1) Each FW user should have to read the rules before using Flamebate. I think Phariad’s Yes/No idea would be adequate, as a test is a little excessive. Now, a test over the rules for MODS might be good…

2) Users should not be able to post on Flamebate their first day here. It would cut down on the illegal spam alts to say you must have been on the site for a few days and have reached level 3 or 4 before you can post.

Would these two things fix Flamebate’s problems? Of course not, but they will help.