Grade 12 students seek driving licence

ras al khaimah — Grade 12 students of the Ras Al Khaimah Secondary School have urged the traffic police to issue exceptional driving licence for them, particularly for those born in the emirate.

Considering the fact that 18 years is the minimum requirement for a driving licence applicant across the UAE, the students asked the police to make some exemptions to the rule.

Speaking to the ‘Alert’ police radio programme, organised for the first time in the classroom, Ahmed Al Suwaidi, another student, said they did understand the traffic regulations as well as the right and wrong practices.

“We know well about road users’ safety, and how risky it is to drive a car or a motorbike without being licenced,” he added.

“Suppose a family has only one son who is not yet 18, and the family cannot afford a driver. I guess a driving licence would be a good option if he is studying in grade 12,”

Many of us are mature enough to be licensed for driving, and a grade-12 student can drive well and show complete respect to traffic law.”

said Hamad Al Nuaimi, a student.

Those below 18 are believed to be immature to get a driving licence. Most traffic accidents occur due to speeding, and young people are mostly involved, police sources told Khaleej Times.

“However, the issue is under study by the federal traffic council, and the age limit may be brought down to 16. But nothing has been decided yet,” the source added.

Rashid Ali, a grade 12 student, said it would be a right step forward. “Many of us are mature enough to be licensed for driving, and a grade-12 student can drive well and show complete respect to traffic law.”

Khalid Al Qasimi, another grade12 student, said it would be great if the traffic department grants special driving licences to those 16 and above.

“We can go through special training courses, and that will help curb traffic violations, accidents and casualties, as many young youngsters now drive without a licence.”

Abdullah Muntaser, a grade 12 student, said he is the only son and he has to often go out for errands. A driving licence would help.”

Brigadier Dr Mohammed Saeed Al Humaidi, director-general of the central operations room, RAK police, said it is critical for all drivers to observe traffic rules and regulations.

“Young people need to be careful on the wheel and ensure road users’ safety,” he said, noting that most injured in traffic accidents are youth.

ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com