Are Learner Drivers Allowed to Drive at Night?

It’s a question that many learners and those who wish to accompany learners ask. Are learner drivers allowed to drive at night? In this article we will give you the definitive answer, but also explore the reasons why many learners think they wouldn’t be allowed, or indeed have reservations about driving at night.

Learners are Legally Allowed to Drive at Night

Yes, learner drivers are legally allowed to drive at night, provided they meet all legal requirements regarding insurance and supervision. The common misconception that night driving is prohibited for learners often stems from the inherent challenges it presents.

The Challenges of Learners Driving at Night

Here are the primary difficulties learner drivers face when driving at night:

Reduced Visibility of Other Road Users

Daytime driving offers clear visibility, allowing you to discern vehicle colors and spot them from afar. Night driving, however, requires reliance on headlights and tail lights, making it more challenging to perceive the complete vehicle.

Reduced Visibility of Road Markings

Road markings, clearly visible during the day, appear fainter at night. Learner drivers must adapt their road perception, and oncoming headlights can further impair visibility, necessitating increased focus on the center road markings.

Difficulty in Judging Speed and Distance

Night time’s reduced visibility complicates distance judgment. While judging distance to a vehicle ahead is easy during the day, at night, especially over long distances, tail lights as the primary reference point can lead to the illusion that a vehicle is moving faster than it actually is.

These challenges highlight why night driving can be difficult for learners. While legally permissible, it’s crucial to remember to verify your insurance policy.

Some Learner Driver Insurance Policies Don’t Allow You to Drive at Night

While Collingwood’s learner driver policies don’t impose curfews, some insurance providers might. Therefore, it’s essential to thoroughly review your policy to understand any restrictions on night time driving. If you’re looking for the freedom of private practice without a curfew, get a quote for learner driver insurance with Collingwood.

Get a quote for learner driver insurance