Graduated Driving Licences set for UK launch

Graduated Driving Licences are set to be introduced to the UK to improve road safety and offer more support for younger drivers.

The Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (New Drivers) Bill has been introduced to parliament with cross-party support by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater.

Graduated Driving Licences

Intended to reduce the risks associated with inexperienced drivers, the GDL scheme places certain restrictions on those who are newly-qualified. Typically, the scheme sees drivers progress through several stages before being fully qualified. These stages stipulate conditions such as driving under supervision, driving hours and passenger numbers.

RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis said: “The tragic statistics speak for themselves. Young drivers, especially men, are far more likely to be killed or seriously injured on our roads, so it’s high time a renewed focus was given to reducing casualties.

“Passing the practical driving test is the very first step in anyone’s driving career, but there remains so much more to learn to become a safe, proficient, and confident driver. We call on MPs to back this Bill and set the wheels in motion in creating legislation that has the potential to save lives.”