The government is planning to change some of the driving rules for young people. This could happen by the end by this month.

Some of the changes concern young drivers. The plan is to increase the driving age from 15 to 16. We are probably the only country in the world that lets 15-year olds drive and one reason for this is the needs of farming families. Children on farms are used to driving tractors and farm trucks so it is easier for them to drive a car on the roads. Teenagers who live on farms also like to travel to play sport or to meet friends in the town during the weekends. It’s easier for parents to let their teenagers drive themselves.

On the other hand, young drivers in New Zealand cause most of the accidents. Many people believe that 16 is still too young to drive. There will be other changes as well which could help teenagers to drive more carefully. Drivers under 20 will not be allowed to drink alcohol at all. Restricted licences will be for one year instead of six months and learner drivers will need to have 120 hours practice with a driving instructor instead of 25 or 30 hours.

The government is also looking at ways to stop young people from driving powerful cars.

Questions to think about

Do you think 15-year olds should be allowed to drive?

Do you think 16-year olds should be allowed to drive? What is the best age?