Driving License at 17, Young People Can Be Proud

The driving license at 17 is now well established, and it’s time to take an initial stock.

One year after the introduction of the driving license at 17, the ECF Group (French Driving School) presents a positive assessment of this measure. This development has notably led to a 24% increase in driving license enrollments among young people aged 15 to 17.

Between January and September 2024, the number of Category B driving tests taken by 17-year-olds increased by 135%. Within the ECF network, registrations of 17-year-olds rose by 65%, while those of 18-year-olds decreased by 24%. This trend reflects a growing preference for quickly obtaining the Category B license without resorting to supervised driving (learning with an accompanying person).

The license remains a tool of freedom

17-year-old candidates have a driving test success rate of 73.2%, significantly higher than the national average of 58.2%. This performance can be attributed to tailored teaching methods and increased attendance at in-person lessons, promoting thorough learning. Experience and supervision play a key role here, far more than the driver’s age.

The lowering of the minimum age for the license has led to a 6% decrease in supervised driving registrations, dropping to 28% for 16-year-olds. However, this form of training remains essential for improving road safety. Young people with several additional years of experience gain better mastery of driving situations, significantly reducing accident risks.

In line with this trend, ECF recommends expanding access to other forms of mobility for young people, including learning to ride EPDs (scooters, electric bikes) and driving lightweight quadricycles. These initiatives emphasize the importance of experience and pedagogy in acquiring safe and responsible driving skills, beyond just age criteria.

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