According to the results of a recent Freedom of Information (FOI) request, 77,406 learner drivers already have points on their provisional licences in the UK.
The majority of drivers with penalty points were male (81%) and 449 drivers over the age of 70 also had points on their provisional licences. Learner drivers aged between 20 and 29 were the most likely to receive penalty points, with 25,488 drivers in this age category receiving points. Learner drivers aged between 30-39 (17,712), 40-49 (8,976), and 50-59 (4,663) also received penalty points. The data showed that over 170,000 points were issued to 29,690 people with provisional licences. The study by Select Car Leasing identified a 43-year-old man as the UK’s most dangerous learner driver with 63 points. London and the South East had the worst learner drivers, but Northampton and Perth also featured in the top 10.
What is a provisional licence?
A provisional driving licence in the UK is valid for 10 years and allows you to learn and practice driving on public roads. To be eligible for a provisional licence, you must be at least 15 years and 9 months old, pass a theory test, and prove your identity, address, and nationality. Once you have a provisional licence, you must be supervised by an approved driving instructor, display ‘L’ plates on the front and rear of the vehicle, and follow certain speed limits and passenger restrictions.
Lessons for learner drivers
Learner drivers should be aware that they can receive penalty points on their provisional licences for breaking the same offences as drivers with full licences. These include speeding, careless driving, failing to stop at a red light, using a mobile phone while driving, drink driving, driving under the influence of drugs, and driving without insurance. Accumulating 12 or more points within three years can result in your licence being revoked, as well as fines, driving bans, or even a prison sentence. It is important to respect the laws and regulations when driving on a provisional licence.
Advice for learner drivers includes using resources like WeDrive to help make the first steps into the world of driving and utilising driving theory apps like WeDrive Theory to improve your chances of passing the theory test. Learner drivers should also practice safe driving habits and abide by the rules to avoid receiving penalty points on their provisional licences.
