Learner drivers face major test rule change under new safety plans
Learner drivers could soon face a mandatory minimum time behind the wheel before being allowed to take practical tests under new government plans designed to improve road safety across Britain.
The proposals, which mainly affect young drivers in their teens and early twenties, could introduce a six-month waiting period between passing a theory test and taking a practical driving test, according to a report by the BBC.
These measures will be announced on Wednesday as part of a wider road safety strategy that will be subject to consultation.
The comprehensive strategy, announced as the first of its kind in more than a decade, aims to reduce deaths and serious injuries on the roads by 65 percent by 2035.
Drivers under 25 represent 6 per cent of license holders but will be involved in 24 per cent of fatal and serious crashes in 2024, according to government figures.
Ministers believe minimum learning periods could help reduce such collisions by up to 32 per cent, based on evidence from other countries.
Currently, someone can start learning to drive with on-road lessons from the age of 17.
Although there is still a long backlog following the Covid-19 outbreak, they can register for the practical exam as soon as they pass the theory exam.
The BBC said the Department for Transport is expected to consult on a minimum waiting period of three or six months as part of the plans.
Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood said: “A driving license opens the doors to employment, education and independence for young people, but we also know that inexperience puts drivers, passengers and other road users at greater risk.
“Young drivers aged 17 to 24 make up just 6 per cent of license holders but are involved in almost a quarter of fatal and serious collisions – a stark and unacceptable disparity.
“We want every young person to start their driving journey with the best possible foundation.
“This consultation is about supporting young drivers to develop the confidence they need to stay safe and giving them more time to develop their skills and gain experience in different driving conditions.”
Other proposals to be announced as part of the road safety strategy include lowering the drink driving limit in England and Wales; This will likely include an even lower limit for new drivers.
Asked whether people should not drink at all if they want to drive, local transport minister Lillian Greenwood said: “That’s probably the best advice. If you’re going to drive, don’t drink.”
“If you want to drink, leave your car at home. We want to give you that very clear message that you have just heard from some people who have lost a loved one.
“I have spoken to many families over the last 18 months and they have asked us to take action. 260 people died as a result of drink driving last year. This is unacceptable.”
