One Third of Austrians Support Driver's License from Age 16

Almost half of the respondents (46 percent) believe that the accident risk for car drivers over 75 is higher than for 16-year-olds. Even 43 percent expressed that they find older drivers frightening. According to the survey on the driver's license from 16, 84 percent demand stricter safety requirements for 16-year-old drivers. 78 percent are in favor of mandatory car insurance for 16-year-olds.

Driver's License from 16 Would Strengthen Independence

Almost half of the respondents (48 percent) are convinced that a driver's license from 16 would strengthen the sense of responsibility and independence of young people. Gen Z sees it the same way (62 percent). Additionally, 45 percent believe that 16-year-olds can drive just as safely as 18-year-olds after appropriate training. Currently, in Austria, one can only obtain a car driver's license at the earliest at 17 years old.

Especially in rural regions, the demand for an earlier driver's license is high: Two-thirds (61 percent) would see it as a noticeable relief for parents. The support is even clearer regarding flexibility: 67 percent think that an earlier driver's license improves the mobility of young people in the countryside. In contrast, in Vienna, the majority (84 percent) are in favor of a free public transport ticket instead of an earlier driver's license.

(APA/Red)

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