Supervised practice hours among older novice drivers in Victoria: stakeholder perceptions and readiness to obtain supervised driving practice

There is no requirement in Victoria for learner drivers older than 21 years to complete supervised driving practice before sitting the drive test. This research sought to understand stakeholders’ views about the value of supervised driving experience for learners over 21 and the willingness of older novice drivers’ to complete supervised practice hours. Focus groups and interviews with novice drivers, licence testing officers, and driving instructors (Study 1) showed agreement that supervised driving experience for older novices may result in better, safer drivers. An online survey with older novice drivers (N = 968) (Study 2) revealed approximately one third had completed at least 80 hours of supervised practice; the remainder reported they would be willing to complete 72.25 hours (SD = 33.60) before sitting the drive test. Improving access to supervisors could help to increase the number of practice hours that older novice drivers in Victoria complete.