Calls to ban delivery drivers with L plates
London Assembly members want government to prohibit provisional licences for commercial work to improve road safety.
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Motorcyclists without a full driving licence may be prevented from working as delivery drivers in London. The London Assembly passed a motion last month urging the government to prohibit the use of provisional licences for commercial purposes, aiming to enhance road safety.
Under current regulations, moped drivers can work as fast-food delivery couriers after obtaining a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) certificate. This certificate is valid for two years and can be renewed repeatedly without requiring the driver to pass a full driving test.
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Concerns over road safety
Thomas Turrell, a Conservative London Assembly member who proposed the motion, stated that the CBT was not designed for continuous, indefinite use and described the practice as a "menace to the road." He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that the CBT was intended as a method for individuals to gain experience and knowledge of the roads.
Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan has also previously advocated for changes to the CBT. In 2022, he informed the London Assembly that he believed the existing CBT system was "not fit for purpose" and an inadequate qualification level, particularly for those driving for work. Sir Sadiq Khan noted that Transport for London lacks the authority to mandate couriers to hold full licences, with such powers residing at a national level.
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Government response and proposed reforms
Earlier this year, ministers initiated a consultation on changes to moped and motorcycle training and testing. This consultation included proposals for reforming the CBT certificate. A spokesperson for the Department for Transport confirmed that the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has consulted on these reforms and is currently analysing the submitted responses. The aim is to improve safety and modernise motorcycling practices.
Attempts to legislate on this issue have been made previously. Rebecca Paul, the MP for Reigate, tried to amend the Crime and Policing Act in April to prevent learner moped drivers from engaging in commercial activities on the roads, but this effort was unsuccessful. Louie French, the MP for Old Bexley and Sidcup, stated that the government needs to address the situation where delivery drivers are allegedly abusing the L plate system, ensuring all drivers operate legally and do not endanger other road users.
Mr Turrell suggested that significant employers, including Just Eat, Deliveroo, and Uber, might present the primary obstacle to reform due to potential "pushback." A spokesperson for Just Eat commented that the company prioritises the safety of all road users and actively supports stronger regulations and enforcement against modified e-bikes and for moped riders to possess full licences. They affirmed their commitment to collaborating with authorities and industry peers to ensure road safety.
Questions this report answers
+What is the current rule for delivery drivers using provisional licences?
Delivery drivers can currently work with a learner (L) plate after completing a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) certificate. This certificate is valid for two years and can be renewed repeatedly without needing to pass a full driving test.
+Why are people calling for a ban on delivery drivers with L plates?
Concerns have been raised about road safety, with some arguing that the CBT system is not designed for indefinite use and that drivers with learner plates may pose a risk to other road users. The London Assembly has passed a motion calling for a prohibition on provisional licences for commercial work.
+What is the government doing about the CBT system?
The Department for Transport has stated that the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has consulted on reforms to the CBT and is currently analysing the responses. The aim of these potential reforms is to improve safety and modernise motorcycling training and testing.
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