Learner Drivers May Face Six-Month Wait Before Taking Practical Test
Learner drivers in England and Wales may soon experience a minimum waiting period of six months between their theory and practical tests. This measure, which aims to improve road safety, is set to be unveiled by the government as part of its comprehensive road safety strategy.
Proposed Waiting Period for Learner Drivers
– New Regulations: The government plans to consult on implementing a minimum six-month learning period for learner drivers before they can take their practical test.
– Goal: This initiative aims to give learners ample time to build their driving skills, especially in various conditions.
– Evidence: Studies from other countries indicate that similar mandatory learning periods can reduce driving collisions by up to 32%.
Background on Driving Tests
– Current System: Learner drivers typically begin lessons at age 17 and are eligible to book their practical tests immediately after passing their theory exams.
– Demographics: In 2024-2025, approximately 55% of driving tests were taken by individuals aged 17-24.
– Existing Wait Times: Currently, due to a backlog from the Covid pandemic, learner drivers face around six months of waiting time for practical tests, expected to continue until late 2027.
Voices for Change: Graduated Driving Licenses
– Advocacy for GDLs: There is mounting support for implementing graduated driving licenses (GDLs) in the UK. These licenses could include restrictions such as limiting young drivers from carrying peers or driving at night.
– Personal Stories: Sharron Huddleston, who lost her daughter Caitlin in a crash involving a novice driver, advocates strongly for GDLs. She believes that her daughter might still be alive today if such regulations had been in place.
Concerns and Opportunities
– AA’s Perspective: The AA welcomed the new measures but expressed disappointment at the absence of GDLs. President Edmund King emphasized that limiting same-age passengers for the first six months could significantly enhance safety.
– Overall Strategy: The government’s road safety strategy aims to reduce fatalities on the roads by focusing on speeding, impaired driving, and other dangerous behaviors. This includes potentially lowering the legal drink-driving limit to align with Scotland’s stricter regulation.
Continuous Learning for Young Drivers
– Real-Life Experiences: Alisa Fielder, a young driver who experienced a crash shortly after passing her test, underscored the importance of ongoing training. After her accident, she pursued an informal assessment to enhance her skills, realizing that her initial training wasn’t sufficient.
– Government’s Intent: Local Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood noted that while young drivers represent only 6% of all drivers, they are involved in nearly a quarter of fatal and serious collisions. The planned minimum learning period is designed to enhance young drivers’ confidence and experience on the road.
In conclusion, the proposed changes for learner drivers could significantly reshape the landscape of young drivers’ training in the UK. By extending the wait time before taking practical tests, the government hopes to equip learners with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of driving safely.