The new Graduated Licensing System
Crash risk is highest early in the probationary licence period. Around 45% of injury crashes occur in the first year.
One of the main reasons for the high crash risk is the lack of driving experience before going solo. Research suggests that between 50% and 70% of new driver crashes are the result of skill errors - a direct result of not enough prior experience.
This is why the Government is implementing the new Graduated Licensing System (GLS), which aims to reduce the deaths and serious injuries of young Victorians on our roads by making them safer and better drivers.
The GLS is being introduced in three stages.
Stage 1
The first stage involved the introduction of alcohol interlock laws on 1 January 2007.
Stage 2
The second stage was introduced in July 2007. This stage requires learner drivers to obtain at least 120 hours of driving experience before they can apply for a probationary licence.
There are also tighter restrictions imposed on probationary drivers when driving high powered vehicles (visit www.arrivealive.vic.gov.au/node/196 for more information including a list of vehicles).
Stage 3
The final stage will commence in July 2008. This involves a two stage probationary licence comprising a one year P1 probationary licence, and a three year P2 probationary licence. Passenger restrictions have recently been announced for P1 drivers. More information can be found at http://www.arrivealive.vic.gov.au/node/208.
More information
To understand all of the new requirements, visit www.arrivealive.vic.gov.au/node/204.
Last Modified on 26/05/2008 14:49
