As a pedestrian or car driver, I have had numerous encounters with delivery drivers on two-wheels while they were busy delivering takeaways and shopping. Unfortunately, these encounters have not always been pleasant or safe. One incident that stands out in my memory is when I was crossing the road and a delivery driver sped off at high speed without looking ahead, nearly running me over. It was a terrifying experience that made me realise the potential dangers posed by some of these drivers. They can also be a danger to themselves by taking risks such as undertaking at junctions.

Currently, it is possible for individuals as young as 16 years old to drive mopeds or scooters, with just a provisional driving licence in order to make deliveries for a living. The provisional licence only costs £34 and requires attendance at Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), without any requirement to pass or fail the training. This lenient system allows inexperienced drivers to operate on our roads without having fully demonstrated their competence.

In stark contrast, taxi drivers operating cars are required to hold a full DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency), Northern Ireland, or other EEA state driving licence that has been held for at least three years. This discrepancy raises concerns about the safety standards applied to professional two-wheel delivery drivers.

It is important to note that the provisional driving licence was originally intended for individuals who are learning how to drive, not as an authorisation for them to drive professionally and potentially endanger themselves and others on our roads.

To address this issue and ensure safety on our roads, we urge relevant authorities to implement regulations requiring all professional delivery drivers using two-wheel vehicles (mopeds, scooters, motorbikes) to hold a full driving licence before engaging in such employment.

By implementing this requirement:

1. We can ensure that all professional two-wheel delivery drivers have undergone comprehensive training and testing, demonstrating their ability to safely navigate our roads.
2. We can reduce the risks associated with inexperienced drivers operating in a professional capacity, thus safeguarding the well-being of both themselves and other road users.
3. We can align the licensing requirements for two-wheel delivery drivers with those imposed on taxi drivers operating cars, promoting consistency and fairness in our transportation industry.

It is time to prioritize safety and take action to protect pedestrians, motorists, and delivery drivers alike. Let us come together and demand that all professional two-wheel delivery drivers hold a full driving licence before engaging in this line of work.

Sign this petition today to support safer roads for everyone!

Note: The personal story shared at the beginning of this petition highlights the urgent need for stricter regulations regarding professional two-wheel delivery drivers. It serves as a reminder that anyone can be affected by reckless driving practices and emphasizes why we must act now to ensure safety on our roads.