L17 Driving Licence Gains Strong Interest in the Czech Republic: More than 30,000 Young Drivers in 2025
In addition to training, the programme also promotes responsible behaviour on the roads
Accompanied driving from the age of 17 is increasingly popular in the Czech Republic. In 2025, more than 30,000 young people used the L17 scheme to gain their first driving experience. Initial evaluations indicate positive effects on road safety.
According to the Ministry of Transport, a total of over 31,000 driving licences, as well as a similar number of permits, were issued last year under the L17 programme. The strongest demand was recorded in June, with more than 3,000 licences granted.
The L17 system is aimed at both novice drivers and their mentors, offering a structured training and accompaniment programme. Transport Minister Ivan Bednárik emphasises the positive development: the number of L17 driving licences issued rose from around 24,000 in 2024 to over 31,000 the following year. The concept has also proved successful internationally, for example in Germany, Austria, and Slovakia, and has now established a firm place under Czech conditions.
The programme further encourages responsible behaviour on the roads. Young drivers in the L17 system committed significantly fewer traffic offences than older novices: their share was per cent, whereas drivers aged 18 and over were more frequently involved. The number of road accidents also remained at a low level in 2024.
The system is supported by accompanying measures such as special mentor days, organised together with the Association of Driving Schools. In driving safety centres, mentors and their protégés receive practical guidance from experts, undertake training drives, and expand their knowledge.
Further information on the L17 programme is available online from the Ministry of Transport. Additionally, a free L17 app for Android and iOS devices allows interested parties to learn more and register.
