Learner drivers facing tougher test

May 7 2008

The Government is to signal a shake up in the driving test and in tuition for learner drivers.

To be announced by Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly, a consultation document may propose a harder, more-expensive driving test.

But the Government may hold back from raising the minimum age for holding a driving licence from 17 to 18.

And it is thought the Government will not introduce night-time curfews on young drivers.

The consultation document, aimed at reducing the high accident rate among young drivers, is published at the same time as a survey of more than 17,000 AA members, carried out in conjunction with research company Populus.

It showed that: 73% supported a compulsory 40 hours of tuition, but only 27% of 18 to 24-year-olds backed the idea; 50% supported a night-time curfew for young drivers; 69% backed a limit on the number of passengers young drivers could carry; 64% supported the rise to 18 for young drivers to hold a full licence.

AA president Edmund King said: "The Government is likely to announce improvements to the driving test rather than difficult-to-enforce restrictions on new drivers. The Government may also look again at the drink-drive limit. Two-thirds of AA/Populus panel members were in favour of lowering the drink-drive limit."