What is the graduated driving licence scheme?

Currently, in England, there is no Graduated Driver's Licence. At the age of 17, after passing their test, teenagers are able to use the roads just like experienced drivers and face no restrictions.

Many campaigners are calling for changes to implement a Graduate Driver's Licence scheme to put in place limitations for those who have recently passed their test for a set period of time. The idea was introduced in the hope of reducing fatalities and serious injuries on the roads, particularly for young people.

What would a GDL look like?

Under the GDL scheme, some restrictions imposed could include:

• A minimum learning period - a set amount of hours before drivers can undertake a driver's test. (There is currently no number of hours that drivers have to complete.)

• Passenger limitations - a control on the number of passengers, particularly around the same age group as the driver

• A curfew - restricting what time young, newly qualified drivers can use the road, especially at night when it is dark.

• Stricter alcohol limits - reduce the limit of drinking or ban drinking and getting behind the wheel completely.

• Engine size - preventing new drivers from using powerful vehicles

• Displaying P plates - this would be mandatory for all new drivers

Why are young drivers at risk?

The point of the scheme is to reduce the number of injuries and deaths of young drivers on the roads, with statistics showing that young people are at risk of road collisions happening. Drivers aged 17–24 are more likely to be involved in serious and fatal collisions than any other age group.

Statistics show that 1 in 5 young drivers crash within a year of passing their test, and over 1500 are killed or seriously injured on UK roads every year.

The three biggest risks facing young drivers include: lack of experience, driving late a night and passenger distractions.

What is happening with the scheme in the UK?

Campaigners and charities are calling for changes to be brought in, but the government has scrapped the scheme despite warnings about the number of fatalities. The UK government rejected the scheme as it felt that it "unfairly penalised young drivers." But campaigners aren't stopping as they are still pushing for change.

Where is the scheme already in place?

The UK has debated the scheme for several years and rejected the plans to introduce the scheme despite research brought forward on the dangers of young drivers. Other countries have introduced the scheme, such as Australia, New Zealand, the US and Ireland, all of which have their own GDL in place. In Victoria, Australia, research found that 42.5% fewer drivers (aged 18-23) were involved in fatal or serious injuries as a result of the GDL scheme.

The debate between freedom and safety

For many, being able to drive gives young people access to independence and the start of adulthood. However, research highlights that young people are at risk due to a lack of experience.

Which leads to the question, should young people give up their freedom in order to save lives?