[Kaohsiung News]
The Kaohsiung City Government has achieved notable results in curbing unlicensed driving among teenagers. According to the latest statistics, compared to the same period in previous years, the number of traffic violations involving unlicensed drivers under the age of 18 in 2024 (Year 113 of the Republic of China calendar) has dropped by 52.3%. In addition to enforcement through roadside inspections, the City Government has implemented a one-on-one counseling approach for individual unlicensed driving cases, aiming to deter such behavior and enhance traffic safety awareness among youth.
Unlicensed driving poses a significant threat to road safety. Road users without professional training or certification lack the necessary traffic safety knowledge, making them less capable of exercising sound judgment and responding appropriately in emergency situations, thereby greatly increasing the risk of traffic accidents. Furthermore, unlicensed driving not only endangers the driver’s own life but also poses serious risks to other road users.
The Transportation Bureau stated that preventing unlicensed driving is a key focus of the Kaohsiung City Government's road safety initiatives. To effectively address such cases, in addition to strengthening enforcement and inspection efforts, the City Government continues to promote the dangers of unlicensed driving through school-based education programs. Each month, unlicensed driving cases are identified and referred to the Education Bureau and the Social Affairs Bureau for individualized counseling and guidance, which has effectively contributed to the 52.3% reduction in violations among drivers under 18.
Moreover, the Transportation Bureau is collaborating with the Motor Vehicles Office to promote motorcycle training subsidies for newly-eligible 18-year-old applicants seeking a driver’s license. This measure aims to prevent traffic accidents often caused by young drivers lacking defensive driving skills and an understanding of road rights. Statistics show that individuals who complete motorcycle training courses before obtaining their license have a 59% lower risk of traffic violations and a 36% lower risk of being involved in an accident. These figures highlight the effectiveness of such training in improving drivers’ awareness of traffic safety. As a result, the Kaohsiung City Government will continue to allocate funding for training subsidies this year.
The Transportation Bureau urges all citizens to obtain a valid driver’s license before operating a vehicle and to obey traffic regulations in order to safeguard their own lives and property as well as those of others. Information on motorcycle training subsidies can be found on the Directorate General of Highways, MOTC’s official portal: https://www.thb.gov.tw/cl.aspx?n=26. The City Government remains committed to advancing comprehensive prevention measures, with the goal of making Kaohsiung a safer city for all road users.
