Graduated Driving Licences

More than 80% of UK motorists believe learner drivers and newly qualified motorists should demonstrate a sound understanding of tyre safety, according to research by Bridgestone.

The findings reveal that more than eight in 10 drivers want new motorists to be familiar with essential tyre checks, including maintaining the correct tyre pressures, checking tread depth and understanding how tyre pressure monitoring systems work.

The research also found that 57% of drivers support the introduction of Graduated Driving Licences (GDLs) for young motorists, as discussions around improving road safety continue.

Calls for Graduated Driving Licences to Improve Road Safety

Road safety experts have increasingly called for Graduated Driving Licences to help reduce collisions involving young and inexperienced drivers.

The Department for Transport reports that around one in five people killed or seriously injured in car collisions were involved in incidents involving a young car driver.

Young male drivers aged between 17 and 24 are also four times more likely to be killed or seriously injured on the roads than car drivers aged 25 and over.

These figures highlight the importance of driver education, vehicle awareness and measures designed to help young motorists gain experience safely.

With Graduated Driving Licences introduced in Northern Ireland from the 5th of October 2026, the changes are expected to bring renewed attention to the ways young drivers are trained, assessed and supported as they begin driving independently.

The latest research reinforces the need for greater awareness of vehicle maintenance and responsible driving habits, helping new motorists develop the knowledge and skills needed to stay safe on the road.