The Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) intends to introduce a system whereby 17 year olds will be permitted to drive if accompanied by an adult (over 18 years and with full driving licence).
The idea, successful in numerous other countries around the world such as the UK, USA, Norway, Australia, France and Sweden, will be included in the Road Safety Strategic Plan 2010-2015 and could, with a fair wind, come into force before the end of the current legislature.
Under the new proposals, young drivers will be compelled to attend driving school and take a minimum number of theory and practical classes and before getting behind the wheel, they must pass the theory test.
From 17 years to 18 years, they will be permitted to drive if accompanied by an adult (over 18 years) who has a full licence, has no points deducted or a history of serious offences.
The measures are designed to further reduce the number of deaths of young people in road traffic accidents which, since 2003, have declined by 64%. Around 20% of drivers are ‘young’ and account for 36% of fatal accidents and 42% of serious injuries.