Barriers to and facilitators of teen licensure under Graduated Driver Licensing

Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) programs are effective in reducing motor-vehicle crashes among teens; however, parents' and teens' experience of licensure under GDL has not been examined. This study used qualitative methods to understand parents' and teens' experience with barriers to and facilitators of licensure through GDL so that program implementation can be enhanced. GDL-eligible teens and their parents were recruited from three Midwestern states to participate in both nominal group and focus group discussions about their experiences with licensure under GDL. A total of 24 nominal group and 24 focus group discussions were conducted with a total of 82 teens and 78 parents. Parents and teens attended separate sessions based on the teen's GDL-licensure status. A nominal group discussion was held first to identify barriers of or facilitators to GDL licensure. A focus group was conducted one week later with questions exploring the nominal group findings. Discussions were audio recorded, transcribed and analyzed using an open, focused coding process with constant comparison through which themes were identified. Major barriers to GDL licensure included: lack of time, cost, teen immaturity/irresponsibility, fear (of driving and for safety), and lack of access. Major facilitators included: more practice driving, driving restrictions, more parental involvement, GDL's structured nature, and more teen learning. Program and policy recommendations to reduce barriers and to facilitate GDL licensure are addressed with implications for teen driver safety.