Learner drivers in England and Wales could soon be required to wait several months between passing their theory test and taking their practical driving exam, under government proposals designed to improve road safety. Although the measures have not yet been confirmed, they are a central part of the government’s new road safety strategy, which aims to drastically reduce deaths and serious injuries on UK roads over the next decade.
One of the key proposals under consideration is the introduction of a mandatory learning period of three to six months after passing the theory test before learners are allowed to book their practical test. The Department for Transport (DfT) will conduct a public consultation on the plan before any changes are enacted.
If implemented, the waiting period would allow learner drivers to build more experience behind the wheel, gain confidence, and develop their skills in a variety of driving conditions.
According to the government, this additional learning time would include exposure to driving in different weather conditions, at night, and on faster or more complex roads.
Both professional lessons and informal practice with parents or guardians would count toward the minimum learning period.
The proposal reflects a growing recognition that gaining real-world experience is essential to reducing accidents, particularly among young and inexperienced drivers.
Statistics show that young drivers remain disproportionately involved in serious collisions. In 2024, around 20% of all fatal or serious crashes involved a young car driver.
In addition, more than half of all driving tests in the UK are taken by drivers aged 17 to 24. By introducing a mandatory learning period, the government hopes to give these drivers the time they need to become safer, more confident road users.
The move forms part of a wider strategy to cut road deaths and serious injuries by 65% overall by 2035, with an even more ambitious 70% reduction targeted for children under 16.
Alongside the proposed learning period, the strategy includes measures such as tougher drink-drive laws, mandatory alcolocks for some convicted offenders, and mandatory eyesight tests for drivers aged 70 and over.