The London Assembly has called on the Labour government to prohibit the use of provisional driving licences (L plates) for commercial work in the capital, particularly in the food delivery sector, citing serious road safety concerns.
Current rules and concerns
Under existing regulations, individuals can ride mopeds on a provisional DVLA licence after completing a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course. However, the Assembly warns that the CBT course is "intended only to demonstrate basic competence to use the road safely" and is unfit for purpose when used as a permanent qualification for commercial driving.
The Assembly further notes that CBT certification can be repeatedly renewed without any requirement to progress to a full driving test, creating "little incentive or intention for riders to obtain a full licence." This has led to a growing number of people undertaking commercial work—especially food delivery—while riding on L plates without having passed a full test.
Safety risks and enforcement
Thomas Turrell AM, who proposed the motion, said: "Londoners want to know that our roads are safe, and that people are not maliciously exploiting loopholes in the rules to enable them to drive without proper qualifications. This must stop and I am pleased that the Assembly has supported my motion calling for reforms to achieve just that."
The motion, backed by 17 votes to two, also highlights that some riders park mopeds in ways that obstruct pavements, creating risks for pedestrians, particularly those with disabilities or mobility impairments.
Call for government action
The Assembly believes that too many gig economy businesses are taking advantage of a flexible working model to avoid usual health and safety obligations. It urges companies to ensure adequate training, appropriate vehicles, and proper reporting of safety incidents for those working on their behalf. The government is now under pressure to act on the proposal, which could reshape licensing rules for commercial riders across England.
