Introduction
Learning how to drive has always been seen as a major milestone amongst young people. Turning 17 and booking driving lessons was a rite of passage to adulting that offered independence, better job opportunities and freedom. However, data shows that in recent years young people are choosing to either postpone these lessons or not get their drivers license altogether.
Few young people have a driver’s license now than 5 years ago
Recent figures show a drastic decline in the number of young people who have a license. An analysis of DVLA data by CarGurus UK showed that between 2018 and 2023, the number of people who have a license dropped by 360,000. This means a drop of 9% in 5 years.
2023 saw a total of 3.54 million young people obtain a license. However, this figure is lower than previous years, like before the pandemic that saw 3.9 million people obtain one. Additionally, reports show that license-holding records for people aged 16-25 years old are at their lowest levels in over a decade.
This isn’t just a short-term glitch but an occurring trend that represents how young people’s perspective on driving has changed.
The number of provisional license holders is higher than ever before
Despite this, many young people in Britain now hold provisional licenses, suggesting that they still have an interest in driving. However, very few end up passing their test and becoming licensed drivers.
For many, the process is delayed due to cost, waiting times or just because driving isn’t a priority. What was once a stepping stone into adulthood now feels like a complicated, expensive and ultimately unnecessary burden.
Cost is the biggest obstacle holding young people back from getting their drivers license
One of the main reasons young people aren’t driving is due to the cost involved. Learning how to drive has become way more expensive compared to over a decade ago:
- The cost of driving lessons averages £35-£45 p/h.
- Insurance premiums for younger drivers in the UK are amongst the highest in Europe.
