Learner drivers' supervised hours doubled

• Must do 25 hours before practical test and 25 hours before 'solo' licence

• Learners to get redesigned log book

The required amount of supervised driving hours for learner drivers will double from 25 to 50 hours to better prepare them to become safe drivers.

Transport Minister Troy Buswell said the decision was based on road safety research as well as feedback from driving assessors and would take effect later this year.

"Research shows the more supervised driving experience learners have before they get their licence makes them safer drivers and reduces their risk of having a crash," Mr Buswell said.

The Minister said learner drivers were currently required to log a minimum of 25 hours supervised driving over six months after passing their practical driving test.

"Office of Road Safety research shows learners are likely to have between 25 and 40 hours practice before their driving test but there is currently no mandatory minimum and driving assessor feedback indicates some learners might be taking the test too soon," he said.

"Under the new system, learners will first need to log at least 25 hours supervised driving before sitting a practical test, followed by 25 hours before they get their 'solo' driver's licence.

"When these prospective drivers get their learner's permit, they will also get their logbook, which will be redesigned to educate learners and their supervisors in the benefits of additional hours driving experience, and to support recording these hours beyond the required minimum.

"The emphasis will be on learner drivers getting as much supervised on-road practice as possible before getting their P-plates to ensure they become safe drivers.

"Changes to regulations enabling the increased requirement are being progressed and I expect the extended supervised driving hours to be introduced later this year."

      Fact File

• WA learner driver information: http://www.transport.wa.gov.au 

Minister's office - 6552 6400