17 years and driving a car? Get on the road safely
In November 2011, the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment launched an experiment called 2toDrive. Under this experiment, Dutch young people are allowed to get their car driving licence before their 18th birthday and take to the roads under the supervision of a coach. This experiment will end on 31 October 2017. Due to the successful outcome of the experiment, 2toDrive will become part of the Road Traffic Act (WVW) from 1 November 2017. Because there are still many questions about this experiment and the resulting regulation, we answer some questions in this article.
What exactly is 2toDrive?
2toDrive allows young people aged 17 and over to take practical exams and drive in the Netherlands under the guidance of a coach. Outside the Netherlands, this experiment is not valid. However, the proud holder of the driving licence must apply for a guidance pass and appoint coaches who register via DigiD. Not just anyone can become a coach of a 17-year-old car driver. Coaches must be at least 27 years old and have held a B driving licence for five years or more. In addition, his must not have had any criminal convictions for traffic offences. Finally, coaches must always be able to show a valid driving licence.
When can I take the theory exam?
A question on many young people’s minds is when they can pass the car theory exam. Because of 2toDrive, Dutch youngsters can take the theory exam as early as 16 years old. This is the same theory exam as that for young people aged 18 and above. So don’t underestimate this exam. The theory certificate remains valid for 1.5 years after passing it.
When can I take driving lessons?
A question that follows this is of course when young people can finally start taking driving lessons. Driving lessons are allowed from the age of 16.5. Driving schools are allowed to decide whether they give driving lessons to young people from 16.5 years old.
When can I take my practical test?
The most important question, of course, is when you can take your practical test so that you can officially receive your driving licence. The practical exam for driving licence B may be taken by young people from 17 years of age. When you pass the practical exam, you will receive the same driving licence as young people aged 18 and over. Until your 18th birthday, you drive under the guidance of a self-appointed coach. When you turn 18, you are allowed to drive on the road independently. You may then also officially explore the roads outside the Netherlands.
What are the advantages of 2toDrive?
Getting your driving licence before your 18th birthday has several advantages. First of all, it is fun to get behind the wheel at a young age. In addition, 2toDrive allows you to gain extra driving experience, making your driving even safer. It is also highly recommendedfor young people who suffer from fear of failure. Because young people drive with a coach until the age of 18, they feel safer in the car, allowing them to slowly build up self-confidence. In addition, the presence of the coach makes young people want to prove that they can drive safely and well.
