Fewer Belgian youth opt for driver education

About a quarter fewer 18- to 19-year-olds in Belgium get their driving license compared to five years ago. Young people often do not need a car because they live in the city, or they find it too expensive and prefer to spend their money on smartphones or other luxury items, writes VTM Nieuws.

Belgian youngsters typically take their theoretical driving exam in the last year of high school. The license is valid for three years, but an increasing number of young graduates are not going for their practical driving license within that period, so that the theoretical license expires.

Statistics show that those who wait until after the age of 30 to take the driving test have significantly less chance of passing. More young people in Belgium are nevertheless waiting longer to get their driving license, citing a first job or children as good incentives to finally do so.