Millions of Young Drivers Could Face New Licence Restrictions Under Urgent Safety Plans
There’s a growing debate right now around driving licence restrictions, and it’s something that could affect millions of young drivers as early as next year. Under new proposals being pushed toward the Government’s long-awaited Road Safety Strategy, tougher rules could soon be placed on newly qualified motorists in an effort to reduce serious accidents and save lives.
At the centre of this push is Simon Foster, the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, who has been calling for the introduction of what are known as Progressive Driving Licences. The idea is fairly straightforward but potentially far-reaching. Newly qualified drivers, particularly those aged between 17 and 24, would face temporary restrictions both before and after passing their practical driving test. These measures are being described as an urgent and proportionate response to what has been labelled a serious road safety crisis among young and inexperienced drivers.
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Under the proposed system, limits could be placed on when and how new drivers are allowed to use their cars. Late-night driving curfews are being suggested, especially during high-risk hours when accidents involving young drivers are most common. Lower drink-drive limits could also be enforced for those who have recently passed their test, alongside restrictions on how many passengers of a similar age they are allowed to carry.
These proposals are being backed by some stark statistics. Drivers aged 17 to 24 make up only about seven per cent of licence holders, yet they account for nearly a quarter of all car drivers who are killed or seriously injured on UK roads. Young drivers are also involved in collisions that lead to around 20 per cent of all road casualties nationwide. It has even been reported that more than a third of young drivers admit to getting behind the wheel while over the legal alcohol limit, compared with far lower figures among older drivers.
Other ideas on the table include a mandatory minimum learning period before taking the driving test, as well as compulsory in-car technology designed to encourage safer driving through feedback, rewards, and incentives. Importantly, it has been stressed that these rules would not be designed to unfairly punish young people who rely on driving for work, education, or caring responsibilities. Exemptions could be built in where there is a genuine need.
Supporters of the plan often point to international evidence. Similar graduated licensing schemes already operate in countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of the United States. In Canada alone, deaths among drivers aged 16 to 19 reportedly fell by an astonishing 83 per cent after such measures were introduced.
Momentum behind the proposals has been building, with campaigners, MPs, police leaders, charities, and bereaved families all calling for action. The message being delivered is clear and consistent: delays are costing lives. With the Government expected to publish its Road Safety Strategy soon, many believe this could be a crucial moment that reshapes how young people are introduced to life on the road.
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