The history behind the GDL scheme in the uk
Having been in discussion for several decades, the Graduated Driver's Licence Scheme has resurfaced plenty of times in Parliament for discussion. Despite many campaigns and mounting evidence the scheme has never been implemented in the UK.
Over the years, more research suggests that young drivers are at high risk of being involved in car accidents, with 24% of 17-24 year olds making up fatal or serious injury collisions in Britain.
Some key factors that make young people at risk include: carrying passengers, driving at night and risky behaviour. Which is why many still campaign for the scheme to be put in place.
Here are some of the key moments that impacted the discussion surrounding GDLS:
1937 - The first mention of the GDL
The first mention of the GDL in the House of Commons dates back almost 90 years. MP Reginald Sorenson first mentioned the scheme, stating that: "a young driver of 17 has not had the experience.”
1993 - First Parliament debate
“Newly Qualified Drivers Bill” was the first official time that the GDL was raised in Parliament by Lady Olga Maitland MP, who discussed potential restrictions young drivers could face, such as not driving at night and carrying passengers of a similar age.
2002 - Department for Transport look into evidence
The Department for Transport looked into a study of how effective GDLs are in other countries. Analysing different aspects of the GDL in countries and what elements would be successful in the UK, such as a curfew to prevent young drivers from driving in the dark.
2008 - GDL is recommended to be explored
The Transport Select Committee recommended that the Government should look into the scheme. Here, the risks were acknowledged and called on those in power to evaluate the safety of UK drivers.
2013 - The green paper is announced
The government announced that progressive licensing could be brought into the House of Commons for debate. This was a significant step in understanding the dangers young drivers face.
2014 - The green paper is scrapped
The paper was never published. Whilst there was an agreement that there was strong evidence to suggest young drivers are at a significant risk, a fear surrounding freedom for those new drivers. Implying there needs to be a stronger balance between independence and safety.
2021 - Road safety investigation was launched.
“Road safety: young and novice drivers” was launched by the Transport Committee, identifying key risks and evidence to support a GDL. The UK Government recognises the risk.
2024 - A bill is introduced to bring the GDL into discussion
In May of 2024, Kim Leadbeater MP proposed a Ten Minute Rule Bill: the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (New Drivers). It failed to progress after the first reading, although scheduled for a second reading.
2024 - The GDL Scheme is rejected
The government rejects the scheme and says it is not looking into implementing it. But recognises that young people are at risk.
2025 - Transport Minister shuts scheme down again
Minister Lilian Greenwood said: “We are not considering graduated driving licences,” but suggests the government are looking into different options rather than a GDL.
2025 - Early Day Motion
In October 2025, an EDM was started recognising Brake’s work supporting the proposed GDL, which could be brought back into debate. MPs show support for Brake's road safety campaign.
2025 - Support continues
The launch of Protect Young Drivers, the road safety community gathered in Parliament to show support for young drivers and the GDL scheme. Over 70 representatives showed support for additional training for youth drivers.
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