[flappist]

Actually I can see where the restrictions are both good and bad.

I have an idea for a possible solution to this dilemma.

Two levels of Learner's permit.

First level would be ab initio training and must be completed before continuing to the next.

The learner must sit for and pass several written exams including "Road Rules", "Basic Motor Vehicle maintenance and operation" and "Hazard perception"

The learner would then be assessed by a qualified instructor as to their incumbent skill level and RPLed as necessary.

The learner would then be trained in the various skill in motor vehicle operation by a qualified instructor until they are of a sufficient standard to be allowed to drive under the supervision of an ordinary licensed driver with more than 5 years experience. The test for this will be supervised by a senior instructor who is not the one who did the training.

From that point they are allowed to drive at any legal speed in any vehicle under supervision with the caveat that the supervising driver will accumulate the same points as the learner for any infringements.
If they attract any penalties they lose all hours accumulated and must sit the ab initio test and should they fail that go bact to the start.

After they have 50 hours ICUS they are elegible to sit for their Provisional license.
This will be another written test similar to the first with an added section on simple first aid and general safety in emergency situations such as flat tyre etc.
Then a practical test after which they are elegible to hold a Provisional license.

The nett results are there are no extremely unskilled learners under the supervision of a driver who has no idea how to teach or observe and correct potentially dangerous habits travelling a low speeds impeding traffic and creating dangerous situations any more as ALL learners would be capable of controlling a vehicle safely at 100km/h BEFORE they are allowed to mix with everyone else even though they are under supervision.

The system has provision for everyone. The country kid that has been driving since they were 8 will RPL almost immediately to "L" status.
The inner city kid whose parents while having held a license for 20 years have not actually driven a car for more than 10 will not be set loose in a "Dumb and Dumber" style rolling road hazard.
Those who have aptitude will get through quickly, those who need more training before they are at a safe level will be trained in the areas necessary.

Now this will not stop idiots racing or doing stupid things etc. on purpose but it WILL reduce the number of dangerous and/or stupid things done without the realisation as to just how dangerous or stupid it was.

It will help make the roads, particularly the aterials and urbans, a bit safer by lowering the level of unpredictable behavior during interactions.