‘Significant’ rise in newly qualified drivers losing their licence

Analysis by IAM RoadSmart shows that the number of newly qualified drivers losing their driving licence within the first two years of passing their test has risen by nearly 50% in recent years.

The figures reveal there were 7,795 disqualifications under the Road Traffic (New Drivers) Act in 2020 – compared to 5,401 in 2018.

The legislation was introduced to give newly qualified drivers a probationary period of two years after passing their driving test. During this time, drivers will lose their licence if they commit offences leading to six or more points on their licence. 

The analysis shows driving without correct insurance is the top reason drivers are falling foul of the legislation, with more than 12,000 offences detected between 2018 and 2020.

Speeding was the second highest, with more than 5,500 convictions during the same time period.

From 2018-2020 in Essex there were 6,855 no-insurance offences recorded and 706 of these (11%) were drivers aged 17-21.

Drivers aged 17-21 account for around 3% of the total miles driven, but 11% of the uninsured vehicles.

Will Cubbin, Data Analyst for SERP, said: “There was a statistically significant increase in the number of drivers aged 17-21 being caught by Essex Police for no insurance in 2019 and 2020, compared with the annual average for 2012-2020. Most of these drivers are likely to have lost their licence as a result.

“In 2014, 115 drivers (aged 17-21) were found to have no insurance. This increased to 260 drivers of the same age in 2019.”

Do you know, or are you, a young driver? Our My Small Change campaign asks you to pledge a small change that will inspire other young drivers or passengers and help save lives. Pledgers are entered into a prize draw with the chance to win some great prizes. Full details can be found here: https://www.mysmallchange.co.uk/

12 August 2021