In September 1993, Sweden lowered the age limit for practising driving from 17.5 to 16 years, but the licensing age remained at 18 years. The change aimed to give learners a prolonged opportunity to practise and gain experience before driving on their own. This paper presents an evaluation of the new system sponsored by the Swedish National Road Administration. The study consisted of: (1) a process evaluation, aiming to describe and analyse how young drivers use their new opportunities; and (2) an effect evaluation, measuring changes in attitudes, driving behaviour, and accident involvement during practising and after licensing. Each part included several sub-studies, and data were obtained from questionnaires, interviews, and police accident reports. It was found that, so far, the new age limit has resulted in more practising by learners and fewer accidents. The level of participation was more than expected, and accidents during practising did not increase.
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