Transport expert calls for review of legal driving age to 16

Transport consultant Cecil Garbrah has proposed that Ghana consider lowering the legal driving age from 18 to 16. 

While recognizing the existing laws, he argued that today's 16-year-olds are more mature and capable than previous generations, and should be given the opportunity to obtain a driving license earlier.

In an interview on Joy News' PM Express monitored by DL News, Garbrah highlighted the growing intelligence and physical abilities of teenagers, saying,  

He added that many countries around the world already permit 16-year-olds to drive and suggested that Ghana could adopt a similar approach.

Garbrah emphasized that the law, established in 1996, may no longer reflect the capabilities of today's youth.

His stance is based on the belief that driving requires both intelligence and responsibility—qualities he feels many 16-year-olds now possess. 

Drawing from his experience as a driving school instructor, Garbrah explained that he can assess whether individuals are prepared for the responsibilities of driving, saying, 

“Driving requires intelligence, and it’s not something everyone can do.”

Transport consultant Cecil Garbrah has proposed that Ghana consider lowering the legal driving age from 18 to 16. While recognizing the existing laws, he argued that today's 16-year-olds are more mature and capable than previous generations, and should be given the opportunity to obtain a driving license earlier.

Speaking on Joy News' PM Express, Garbrah highlighted the growing intelligence and physical abilities of teenagers, saying, “We need to reassess the legal driving age of 18 and consider reducing it to 16.” He noted that many countries around the world already permit 16-year-olds to drive and suggested that Ghana could adopt a similar approach.

Garbrah emphasized that the law, established in 1996, may no longer reflect the capabilities of today's youth: “The generation today is not the same. If you speak to a 16-year-old, you'll find they often know things you may not.”

His stance is based on the belief that driving requires both intelligence and responsibility—qualities he feels many 16-year-olds now possess. Drawing from his experience as a driving school instructor, Garbrah explained that he can assess whether individuals are prepared for the responsibilities of driving, saying, “Driving requires intelligence, and it’s not something everyone can do.”

Though supportive of the change, Garbrah acknowledged the current law remains in place nonetheless, he urged for a review of the regulation, especially in light of incidents involving younger drivers, such as a recent accident involving a 16-year-old.