Australia to launch supercar special driver’s license, requiring specialized training Violators will be strictly punished

Australia to introduce special driver's license for supercars, training required Violators will face strict penalties

【Phoneauto News】Recently, the Government of South Australia announced new regulations targeting drivers of supercars. These regulations will take effect on January 1, 2024, with the aim of improving road safety and reducing accident risks. Supercar drivers will be required to hold a special license, which can only be obtained through additional training and exams. In addition, supercar drivers will face stricter penalties if they violate traffic regulations, including fines, license suspension, or even imprisonment.

It is understood that South Australia defines any vehicle with a total mass of less than 4500 kilograms and a power-to-weight ratio exceeding 276 kW per ton as “ultra-high-power vehicles” (UHPV), and approximately 200 models will fall into this category. To drive such vehicles, one must obtain the corresponding special license. Anyone who wants to obtain this license must complete an online training course that is still under development. This course is designed to ensure that drivers of these vehicles understand the risks associated with operating them and their vehicle characteristics. Drivers of these vehicles must obtain the license before January 1, 2025. Of course, buses and motorcycles are not subject to this rule.

UHPV drivers will be required to activate vehicle safety features such as ABS, traction control, and stability control while driving. If they disable these features on public roads, they may face fines of up to AUD 5000. In addition, the state government is imposing stricter penalties on drivers involved in fatal accidents. This will make careless driving resulting in death or serious injury a prosecutable offense, and the maximum sentence for the basic charge will be increased from 12 months to 5 years. If aggravating circumstances exist (such as the consumption of alcohol or drugs), the punishment can be up to seven years, and the driver’s license will be suspended for at least three years.

The Minister for Transport of South Australia, Corey Wingard, stated that this new regulation is in response to the potential dangers caused by supercars on the roads. He said, “Supercars are very powerful and fast vehicles that require a higher level of skill and judgment to control safely. We want to ensure that supercar drivers receive proper training and assessment to enhance their sense of responsibility towards themselves and others.”

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