Wellington, Aug 9 NZPA - Youth drivers are to be targeted in a Ministry of Transport plan to improve road safety, it was reported today.

The ministry is drafting a 10-year strategy document.

AA spokesman Mike Noon told the Sunday Star Times ideas being considered included:

* Extending how long drivers spend on learner licences, possibly doubling it to 12 months;

* raising the minimum driving age; and

* allowing drivers to sit a defensive driving course while on their learner licence.

Ministry statistics showed last year teenage drivers on restricted licences caused 146 crashes in which at least one person was killed or seriously injured.

Fifteen-year-olds can drive under supervision if they pass a multi-choice theory test. Six months later, they can drive alone during the day and with no passengers if they pass a 30-minute practical test. After 18 months on this restricted licence, they can sit an hour-long practical test to earn a full licence.