A DRIVER’S age is not necessarily an indication of how long they have been driving, fleet managers are being reminded.

According to the Driving Standards Agency, 40% of people who pass their driving test are over 22. A quarter of a million people between 22 and 50 passed their test last year.

The DVLA will revoke the licence of any newly-qualified driver if they incur six penalty points within two years of passing their test.

Richard Schooling, commercial director of leasing company Alphabet, said: ‘It is a fairly common assumption that anyone in their mid-20s or older has held a driving licence for a number of years, but statistically it is not safe to do so.’

Companies are being advised to check the licences of all new employees regardless of age to see how long they have been qualified to drive.

Schooling added: ‘Being aware of these issues, and also of the fact that new drivers of all ages are more likely to be involved in an accident in their first two years, means that the employer can put appropriate risk mitigation measures in place.’