Young drivers value driving licence as much as a degree, new research finds
Report by AA Charitable Trust finds young people see a licence as important as a degree or getting married
Young drivers today value a driving licence as importantly as a university degree, new research has revealed.
A survey by AA Charitable Trust, a charity launched by the road services company, quizzed 17,024 respondents and found 15 per cent of 18-24-year-olds believe learning to drive is the most valuable life experience – with 10 per cent of all respondents agreeing.
Further still, 12 per cent of young drivers also said they valued a driving licence on par with a university degree or getting married.
Since launching in 2011, the project has seen three drivers pass tests through the AA Driving School, with another test currently booked and a further three young people undertaking lessons currently.
Edmund King, AA Charitable Trust director, said: “When we launched this project in 2011 we were confident it would have a positive impact on disadvantaged young people, but no idea it would be as beneficial as it has been.
Anne Longfield, the Children’s Commissioner for England, said: “This is an excellent initiative which has had a really positive impact on the care leavers who have taken part.
“It’s really important that young people leaving care are supported as they begin living independently and I hope the Government and others will look closely at how these pilots can be extended so that many more care leavers can benefit from them in the future.”