An experiment allowing youngsters to start learning to drive from the age of 16.5 years and take a test as soon as they reach 17 will begin on November 1.

Youngsters who pass their test will be able to put forward the names of five people as nominated supervisors and will be able to drive accompanied until they hit 18.
Transport minister Melanie Schultz van Haegen hopes the experiment will improve road safety.
A similar scheme operates in Germany and the number of accidents involving youngsters has gone down 30%, the minister said.