With the increased outcry for safer roads and fewer fatalities in 2012, the ANC wants to initiate stricter regulations for new drivers.

New drivers will have to drive for a full year on a probationary license before they can receive a full driving licence. If a new driver commits certain offences during the probation period, they will have to start the licensing process all over again. While carrying a probationary license, drivers will not be allowed to drive between midnight and four in the morning. A two-year suspension will be enforced should a new driver commit six road offences during the year.

A red ‘P’ will have to be displayed on the vehicle of the new driver and driving will have to be logged every 60 hours.

Western Cape MEC for transport and public works, Robin Carlisle, has given his support for the changes, which also include providing proof of address for traffic-related transactions such as paying fines.

Carlisle wants vehicle owners to be registered on the transport department’s eNaTIS (electronic national administration traffic information system) as they often escape prosecution by providing false details.