Press release —
Passenger restrictions top wish list of measures to improve young driver safety
- More than half (57%) of drivers back nighttime passenger restrictions for newly qualified drivers
- A third (32%) of those aged 17-24 support this measure but prefer additional training options
More than half of drivers (57%) would back introducing nighttime restrictions on newly qualified drivers carrying similar aged passengers to improve road safety, including a third (32%) of those aged 17-24, according to new research published today.
A survey of 1,045 motorists undertaken by road safety charity IAM RoadSmart* found that night restrictions were among the most popular measures. Almost half (44%) of moto
rists would back a curfew on nighttime driving for new drivers between midnight and 5am, though far fewer (21%) of those aged 17-24 would support this.
Other supported measures included mandatory telematics insurance, backed by 29% of all respondents. Mandatory training after passing their test - similar to schemes such as the DVSA’s Pass Plus or IAM RoadSmart’s Young Driver Assessment – is endorsed by a pragmatic 44% of drivers. Moreover, this option is the most popular policy among 17-24-year-olds, favoured by 42% of this age group.
The UK Government’s preferred policy of introducing a mandatory learning period for novice drivers, as outlined in the road safety strategy was backed by over a third (36%) of respondents and crucially was one of the more favoured options among younger motorists (34% of younger drivers backed this).
Overall, just under one in ten (8%) of drivers of all ages said they wouldn’t endorse any of the measures put forward, indicating strong public support for improving the current approach to learning how to drive.
The research also showed that most felt that, apart from younger drivers themselves, parents and guardians had the biggest influence on helping to reduce serious collisions among this age group, a view championed by 53% of motorists. Meanwhile, more than half of drivers (59%) would support exempting Insurance Premium Tax (IPT), levied at a standard rate of 12% on all policies, for those taking up telematics products in their first year.
Young drivers (17-24) make up around 6% of all licence holders but are involved in around a quarter (24%) of all fatal and serious collisions**. Separate research conducted by IAM RoadSmart also showed that despite making up only 5% of all licence holders, those aged 17-24 received 18% of all drug driving licence endorsements***.
Recent coverage of social media content has also shone a light on dangerous driving trends, again highlighting safety culture among some younger drivers. IAM RoadSmart’s 2025 Road Safety Report found that one in seven (15%) of drivers aged 17-24 were recording videos or taking pictures with phones while driving.
Research**** has shown that restrictions on similar aged passengers could have one of the greatest impacts on reducing serious casualties among younger drivers because of the effect it can have in reducing distraction.
International evidence of Graduated Driver Licensing has shown that the policy, in one form or another, can reduce collisions and impact trauma involving young drivers by 20-40%.*****
Nicholas Lyes, Director of Policy and External Communications at IAM RoadSmart said: “It’s often thought that measures to keep younger people safer on the roads are unpopular with that age group, but the evidence suggests many are far more pragmatic and are open to additional learning and a graduated approach to becoming full licence holders, which is encouraging.”
“The Government’s road safety strategy focuses on a minimum learning period; however, this is only part of the solution as it’s just as important that they have the right skills and experience. Whether this means some post-test restrictions or additional training, younger drivers will need to not only see the benefit in their driving standards but also benefit from lower insurance premiums compared to the eye-watering amounts they face today once they pass.
“Ultimately, the goal should always be zero deaths and serious injuries. We know only too well that behind every loss of life on our roads is a grieving family, and any measures that help equip young drivers with the skills, experience and confidence to stay safe behind the wheel deserve serious consideration.”
Protect Young Drivers is a growing UK initiative bringing together road safety organisations, emergency services, insurers, researchers and bereaved families with a shared goal of reducing deaths and serious injuries involving young and novice drivers.
Rebecca Morris, Communications and Engagement Lead at Protect Young Drivers, said: “Too many people are being killed and seriously injured in crashes involving young drivers, and the evidence tells us there are practical, proven steps we can take to reduce that risk.
“These findings are encouraging because they show that young people themselves recognise the need for change.
“The Government’s commitment to consult on a minimum learning period is welcome, but we also need to focus on what happens after the test, when newly qualified drivers are at their most vulnerable.
“International evidence shows that a graduated approach can significantly reduce collisions involving young drivers. Passenger restrictions, better training, telematics and support from parents can all play a part in helping young people gain experience more safely and become safer drivers for life.”
In July 2026, IAM RoadSmart, working with the RAC, RAC Foundation and ECM Research Solutions produced free resources for parents and novice drivers, including parental guidance, practice scorecards and agreements.
ENDS
Notes to editors
* IAM RoadSmart Opinion Panel Survey, carried out by Online95 surveyed 1,045 motorists between 22nd June and. UK Motorists survey data has been weighted by region, and age by sex,
For interviews, contact the IAM RoadSmart press office on press.office@iam.org.uk / 020 8996 9777. Please note that case studies are available for interviews.
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Notes to editors
For interviews, contact the IAM RoadSmart press office on press.office@iam.org.uk / 020 8996 9777
About IAM RoadSmart
IAM RoadSmart is the UK’s leading road safety charity providing advanced driver and rider training. We coach and educate road users, campaign for change and make journeys safer for everyone.
IAM RoadSmart was formed in March 1956 and has around 70,000 members and 5,000 volunteers that support its campaigns on road safety. At any one time there are more than 7,000 drivers and riders actively engaged with IAM RoadSmart’s courses.
To find out more about IAM RoadSmart go to: www.iamroadsmart.com
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