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Government to explore graduated driver licensing

A Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system that would restrict drivers on when they could drive for two years after they pass their tests could be introduced in the UK.

UK driving licence

Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) systems restrict drivers on when they can drive

In this week’s Prime Minister’s Questions, Theresa May stated that she would ask the Department for Transport to look into GDL, which has already been introduced in countries such as Australia, New Zealand and parts of the US and said to have brought about safety benefits.

The question was raised by Jenny Chapman, the Labour MP for Darlington, who highlighted stats that one in four young drivers are involved in an accident within the first two years of starting to drive and 400 deaths or serious injuries on roads involved young drivers each year.

The statement was greeted by Brake, which last year called for GDL to be introduced, including mandatory rural driving lessons while the RAC has also said it should be explored as part of a broader, more comprehensive approach to improve young driver safety.

Commenting on the PM’s statement, Brake director of campaigns Joshua Harris said: “Ensuring that novice drivers have the skills and experience to drive safely on all types of roads, and in all scenarios, is an urgent priority. Our current licensing system is not fit for purpose and throws newly-qualified drivers in at the deep-end, at great risk to themselves and others.

“Young and novice drivers are involved in a disproportionate number of road crashes and the introduction of a comprehensive graduated driver licensing system is critical to reverse this trend.”

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Natalie Middleton

Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for over 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day.