Of full driving licence holders
Drivers aged 17–24 accounted for 6.3% of full driving licence holders in Great Britain in 2025.
The RoadSmart Parent Guide
Supporting your young driver. Building safer habits for life.
Helping your child learn to drive is about so much more than getting them through their driving test.
Learning to drive is an exciting milestone, but it also brings new responsibilities and risks. Your support, guidance and understanding can make a real difference as your young driver develops the skills, confidence and judgement needed to stay safe on the road.
This guide brings together practical advice and road safety information to help you support them throughout their learning journey — and beyond the day they pass their test.
Beyond the driving test
Help them become a safer driver for life.Experience, understanding and good decisions matter long after the test.
RoadSmart Driver Coaching & Development
Developing thinking drivers · Supporting safer journeys
Understanding the risks
Why young driver safety matters
Passing a driving test is a significant achievement, but it is only the beginning of a young person's independent driving experience. The early years behind the wheel bring new challenges, and understanding those challenges is an important part of helping young drivers stay safe.
Of car driver fatalities
In 2025, 19% of all car driver fatalities in Great Britain were drivers aged 17–24.
Inexperience is a significant factor
In fatal or serious collisions during 2024–25, younger drivers were 7.5 times as likely as drivers aged 25–69 to have the contributory factor 'inexperienced or learner driver' assigned to them.
Why can those first years be challenging?
New drivers are still building experience. They may understand the rules of the road and have demonstrated the skills needed to pass their test, but that doesn't mean they have encountered every situation they will face independently.
Experience takes time
Recognising hazards, anticipating what other road users might do and responding appropriately develops through practice and experience.
More responsibility and independence
Once they pass, young drivers no longer have an instructor beside them to offer guidance, reassurance or intervention. They must manage situations and make decisions for themselves.
Passengers and peer pressure
Friends in the car, pressure to keep up with others or a desire to impress passengers can influence decisions and distract from the task of driving.
Speed and risk judgement
Choosing an appropriate speed means more than following the speed limit. Drivers need to consider road conditions, visibility, traffic and the space available to respond.
Distractions and changing conditions
Mobile phones, music, tiredness, poor weather and unfamiliar roads can all make driving more demanding. Learning to recognise and manage these pressures is essential.
Statistics: Department for Transport, Reported road casualties in Great Britain: younger and older car drivers factsheet, 2025. Figures relate to Great Britain, not Newcastle specifically. The 7.5× figure describes the relative frequency of a contributory factor being assigned in fatal or serious collisions; it does not mean a young driver is 7.5 times more likely to crash.
Read the full Department for Transport factsheet.
The learning journey
Learning to drive is a process, not a race
Every young driver develops at a different pace. Some may gain confidence quickly, while others need more time to develop particular skills or experience different road conditions. What matters is building the right foundations, not rushing towards a test date.
A driving test measures whether someone has reached the required standard on that particular day. It cannot cover every road, every weather condition or every decision they will face throughout their driving life.
STAGE 01
01
Build the foundations
Develop basic vehicle control, understand road rules, learn how to observe and begin recognising potential hazards. Good habits start here.
Understanding
STAGE 02
02
Develop skills and experience
Build experience across different roads, junctions, traffic conditions and manoeuvres. Learn to anticipate problems and make appropriate decisions.
Experience
STAGE 03
03
Prepare for independent driving
Develop consistency, self-awareness and the ability to manage situations without constant prompts. Practise dealing with unfamiliar routes and changing conditions.
Independence
STAGE 04
04
Continue learning after passing
Passing the test opens the door to independent driving. There is still plenty to learn as experience grows and new situations are encountered.
Lifelong learningWhy shouldn't we rush?
Pressure to pass quickly can sometimes shift attention away from the real purpose of learning. A young driver needs time to practise, make sense of their experiences and develop the judgement to manage risk independently.
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Allow time to develop skills at a suitable pace.
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Encourage experience in a variety of road and traffic conditions.
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Focus on understanding and decision-making, not just completing tasks.
✓
Recognise progress without putting unnecessary pressure on test dates.
Your role as a parent
How you can support your young driver
You don't need to be a driving instructor to make a positive difference. Your encouragement, attitude and involvement can help your young driver build confidence, develop good habits and take responsibility for their decisions.
Be a supportive passenger, not another instructor.
Your role is to encourage, listen and help your young driver reflect on their experiences. Try to avoid overwhelming them with instructions or criticism, particularly when they are already concentrating on a challenging situation.
01
01
Show an interest in their progress
Ask about their lessons and what they have been working on. Encourage them to talk about what they found straightforward, what challenged them and what they would like to improve.
02
Encourage reflection, not criticism
Instead of focusing only on mistakes, ask open questions. What did they notice? What options did they consider? What might they do differently next time? Help them learn from experiences without making them feel judged.
03
Practise patience
Learning takes time. Avoid comparing their progress with friends, siblings or other learners. Give them space to develop at a pace that reflects their individual needs and experience.
04
Lead by example
Your driving behaviour matters. Demonstrate safe speeds, appropriate following distances, good observation and consideration for other road users. Put your phone away and show that safety comes before convenience.
05
Talk about real-world risks
Have calm conversations about distractions, tiredness, peer pressure, passengers, alcohol, drugs and speeding. Help them understand how everyday choices can affect their safety and the safety of others.
06
Celebrate progress and effort
Recognise improvements, good decisions and responsible behaviour. Confidence grows when young drivers understand what they are doing well, as well as what they still need to practise.
07
Keep communication open
Make it easy for them to talk to you about situations they find difficult. Listen before offering advice and avoid turning every conversation about driving into a lecture.
08
Support their independence
Encourage them to think through situations and explain their decisions. The aim is to help them become capable of managing risks independently, rather than relying on someone else to tell them what to do.
Consider additional private practice
If your young driver is eligible and you are legally able to supervise them, additional practice can help reinforce what they are learning during professional driving lessons.
Private practice should complement their instructor's training, not replace it. Discuss suitable practice with their instructor so that you can support their development without introducing conflicting advice or attempting situations they are not yet ready to manage.
Before going out for practice
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Make sure the learner and supervising driver meet the legal requirements.
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Check the vehicle is suitable, roadworthy and correctly insured for learner use.
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Agree what you will practise before setting off.
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Choose routes and conditions appropriate to the learner's current ability.
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Keep instructions calm and clear, and stop somewhere safe if either of you feels overwhelmed.
Remember: your influence doesn't end when they pass their test.
Continue talking about safe driving, encourage them to ask for help when they need it and support responsible decisions as they gain experience. A young driver should never feel they have to take a risk to impress someone or avoid disappointing you.
A practical checklist
Top tips for parents and supervising drivers
Supporting a young driver doesn't have to be complicated. Use this checklist to help keep the focus on safety, good habits and responsible decision-making.
Use this as a reminder throughout their learning journey. You don't need to cover everything in one conversation. Small, regular conversations about driving can help build a positive approach to road safety.
Lead by example
Show the driving behaviour you want them to develop. Respect speed limits, keep a safe distance and never use a handheld mobile phone while driving.
Make safety the priority
Reinforce that arriving safely matters more than arriving quickly. There is no need to take unnecessary risks to save a few minutes.
Talk about distractions
Discuss phones, music, passengers and anything else that could take attention away from driving. Agree sensible boundaries before they set off.
Discuss speed and space
Help them understand that a safe speed depends on the road, weather, visibility and traffic. Encourage them to leave enough space to respond to hazards.
Talk about passengers
Discuss peer pressure and the responsibility that comes with carrying friends. Make it clear that they don't have to impress anyone behind the wheel.
Recognise tiredness
Talk about the dangers of driving when tired. Encourage them to plan journeys, take breaks and avoid driving when they are not fit to do so.
Discuss alcohol and drugs
Be clear that alcohol and drugs can impair driving. Encourage them to plan a safe way home rather than ever feeling they have to drive after using them.
Prepare for different conditions
Discuss how rain, ice, darkness, fog and poor visibility change the demands of driving. Encourage appropriate preparation and sensible decisions about whether to travel.
Encourage journey planning
Help them think ahead about routes, road conditions, parking and possible delays. Remind them to set navigation before moving off.
Keep the vehicle safe
Encourage regular checks of tyres, lights, fluid levels and warning lights. Make sure they know what to do if something doesn't seem right.
Keep talking after the test
Continue discussing their driving experiences and any situations they find challenging. Passing the test should never mean that learning stops.
Support responsible decisions
Make it clear that they can call you if they feel unsafe, are too tired to drive or need help arranging another way home.
A few things to avoid
Let progress and readiness guide the timing, rather than comparisons with friends or family.
Focus on constructive conversations and individual progress instead of making them feel judged.
Discuss private practice with their instructor and follow an agreed approach to avoid confusion.
Know the rules
Understanding your responsibilities as a supervising driver
Supervising a learner is a serious responsibility. You are not simply accompanying them for a drive — you are helping them practise safely while making sure the legal requirements are met.
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Being a supervising driver comes with legal responsibilities.
Before taking your young driver out for private practice, make sure you understand the rules, check your insurance and ensure that both you and the vehicle are suitable for the journey.
Who can supervise a learner driver?
21+
Minimum age
You must be at least 21 years old.
3 years
Full licence held
You must have held a full driving licence for at least three years.
Same
Vehicle category
You must be qualified to drive the type of vehicle the learner is using. For example, a manual licence is needed to supervise a manual car.
Valid
Driving entitlement
You must not currently be banned from driving.
Requirements for the learner
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Provisional licence: They must hold a valid provisional driving licence for the vehicle they are learning to drive.
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Minimum age: Usually 17 years old for a car, subject to the relevant exceptions.
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Eyesight: They must meet the minimum eyesight requirements for driving.
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Display L plates: Clearly visible L plates must be displayed at the front and rear of the vehicle. D plates may be used in Wales.
Requirements for the vehicle
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Insurance: The learner must be correctly insured to drive the vehicle.
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Road tax: The vehicle must be taxed where required.
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MOT: It must have a valid MOT if one is legally required.
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Roadworthy: The vehicle must be registered with the DVLA and safe to drive, including tyres, lights and other essential equipment.
What you must not do when supervising
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Use a handheld mobile phone, tablet or sat nav. This is illegal while supervising a learner on the road.
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Drink and supervise. You must not exceed the legal alcohol limit. The safest approach is not to drink at all before supervising.
×
Supervise while under the influence of drugs or impairing medication. You must be fit to supervise safely.
×
Accept payment for supervising. It is illegal to accept payment, including money for fuel, when supervising a learner as a family member or friend. Paid lessons must be given by an appropriately authorised instructor.
×
Allow the learner to drive on a motorway. Private practice with a family member or friend cannot take place on a motorway.
×
Sit anywhere other than the front passenger seat. You must sit in the front passenger seat while supervising.
Can a learner driver use a motorway?
Yes, but only when accompanied by an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) in a car fitted with dual controls. A learner cannot practise on a motorway with a parent, family member or friend acting as their supervisor.
Remember: you are responsible for supervising safely.
Sit in the front passenger seat, look and think ahead, give directions calmly and in good time, and be prepared to help prevent a dangerous situation. If something goes wrong, stay calm and find a safe place to stop before discussing what happened.
Official guidance and further information
This summary is for general guidance and does not replace the full legal requirements. Always check the latest official information before supervising a learner.
DVSA: Supervise a learner driver
GOV.UK: Practising with family or friends
GOV.UK: Legal obligations of drivers and riders
This summary is for general guidance and does not replace the full legal requirements. Always check the latest official information before supervising a learner.
DVSA: Supervise a learner driver
GOV.UK: Practising with family or friends
GOV.UK: Legal obligations of drivers and riders
Explore and learn
Useful road safety resources
There is a wealth of information available to help parents and young drivers understand road safety, recognise risks and develop safer driving habits. Here are some useful organisations and resources worth exploring together.
Start here
Protect Young Drivers
A road safety resource focused on the risks faced by young drivers and the importance of making safer choices. Explore information and advice that can help start important conversations with your young driver.
Explore Protect Young Drivers
For parents and young drivers
Start conversations about the choices that can make a difference.
Talk about peer pressure, passengers, speed, distractions and the responsibility that comes with driving independently.
Organisations and guidance
GOV.UK and the DVSA
Official information about learning to drive, the driving test, the Highway Code, supervising learners and the legal responsibilities of drivers.
Visit GOV.UK driving guidanceBrake
Brake works to prevent road deaths and serious injuries and supports people affected by road crashes. Its resources help explain why safer speeds, seatbelts and responsible driving matter.
Visit BrakeThe Honest Truth
Educational resources that help learner and young drivers understand common driving risks and the consequences of unsafe choices.
Visit The Honest TruthRoadPeace
A national charity supporting people bereaved or injured through road crashes and campaigning for safer roads and justice for victims.
Visit RoadPeaceForget-me-not Families Uniting
A family-focused road safety community supporting awareness and remembrance, and highlighting the impact that road death and serious injury can have on families.
Explore family support resourcesMyDriveTime
A learning and lesson-management resource used by RoadSmart learners to support lesson preparation, reflection and tracking development.
Visit MyDriveTimeRoadSmart learning and support
We believe that developing safe drivers means going beyond the practical skills needed to pass a driving test. RoadSmart provides additional learning and support to help learners understand their responsibilities and become thinking drivers.
RoadSmart online learning
Additional learning resources designed to complement practical driving lessons and develop road safety understanding.
Lesson reflections
Encouraging learners to think about their progress, identify areas for development and prepare for their next lesson.
Client-centred coaching
A learning approach that helps learners take responsibility, develop judgement and become more independent.
These resources are provided to help parents and young drivers explore road safety further. RoadSmart does not own or control external websites, and their content, availability and advice may change. Always check current official guidance where legal or licensing requirements are concerned.
An additional learning resource
Make every practice drive count with My Learner Driver
Supporting your young driver doesn't stop when their driving lesson ends. In fact, the time spent thinking, learning and practising between lessons can play an important part in their development.
My Learner Driver is an interactive online learning course designed for learner drivers and their family members. It helps parents and learners work together, making private practice more structured, meaningful and effective.
With bite-sized lessons, videos, driving games and practical guidance, it provides additional opportunities to develop knowledge, confidence and safer driving habits.
Learning together makes a difference.
Explore My Learner Driver
The course includes guidance for both learners and supervising drivers, helping families understand how to support learning and make the most of time spent together.
My Learner Driver
An interactive online learning resource for learners and their families.
How can My Learner Driver help your family?
It gives parents and learners a shared resource to help make learning more engaging, structured and relevant.
Bite-sized learning
Short learning activities help learners build their knowledge and understanding outside their practical lessons.
Make practice more effective
Guidance and activities help families approach private practice with greater structure and purpose.
Support for parents
Supervising drivers can develop their understanding of how to support a learner safely and constructively.
Interactive activities
Videos, games and interactive learning help make road safety education more engaging.
Develop better understanding
Encourage learners to think about their experiences, recognise risks and consider the decisions they make.
Learning beyond the test
The focus is on building knowledge, independence and safer driving habits that remain important after passing.
Give your young driver more opportunities to learn.
Explore My Learner Driver and discover how you can work together to make every lesson and practice drive count.
My Learner Driver is an independent online learning resource. It complements professional driving lessons and does not replace the instruction of an Approved Driving Instructor or the legal requirements for supervising a learner.
Working together for safer roads
Help them become the safest driver they can be.
Supporting a young driver is about more than helping them prepare for their driving test. It's about encouraging good decisions, building experience and helping them understand the responsibilities that come with being behind the wheel.
Parents and supervising drivers play an important role, but they don't have to do it alone. At RoadSmart, we work with learners to develop the skills, awareness and judgement they need to become safe, confident and independent drivers.
A driving test is a milestone. Becoming a safe driver for life is the real achievement.
RoadSmart Driver Coaching & Development · Developing Thinking Drivers