New drivers to get two-year probationary licenses

The government plans to introduce a system under which new drivers would receive probationary licenses subject to cancellation in the event of traffic rule violations over the next two years. The new system is aimed at reducing traffic accidents and ensuring that beginning drivers strictly observe the rules of the road, related authorities said.

The initiative was one of a set of comprehensive traffic safety measures released by government authorities Monday. Other rules would give the right of way to cars proceeding straight ahead at intersections that have no traffic lights, and require motorists to stop when pedestrians enter crosswalks without lights.

Government authorities said the temporary license initiative was needed in light of the fact that beginning drivers are involved in some 40 percent of auto accidents causing death. The question of when to issue permanent licenses is to be decided based on monitoring of the new system.

[Yonhap]