A “graduated” licensing system would prevent new drivers from the road after dark

Young motorists could be banned from the road at night if plans for probationary driving licences are approved.

Theresa May said yesterday that the Department for Transport would review the case for a “graduated” licensing system that imposes restrictions on drivers depending on experience.

The prime minister’s intervention came amid concerns that young motorists are involved in a disproportionately high number of accidents.

Figures show that young drivers — those aged 17 to 24 — make up about 7 per cent of licence holders but are involved in more than a quarter of crashes leading to deaths or serious injuries.

Under the graduated licence system, drivers are required to abide by a series of restrictions during a probationary period — usually one or two years.