Even though these people have not met the full requirements of a licence, the fact they have no plates displaying their status means that no one is aware that they are a driver with little experience.
This is disturbing, given that according to the AA, young drivers are six to seven times more likely to crash than older, more experienced drivers.
Which is why Bay road safety experts are backing the Government's proposed move to introduce "R" plates for restricted drivers.
The move is part of a push to reduce the road toll by targeting high-risk drivers.
The R plate would be a visual reminder to other motorists that the person behind the wheel is still learning.
Just as you are extra cautious driving behind a vehicle with an L plate, in case they are practising their emergency stop, you would also take note of R plates and make any necessary adjustments to your own driving.
For those teenagers who can't wait to ditch the uncool L plates, having to display R plates would be an incentive to them to sit the full licence test sooner rather than adopt cruise control on their restricted.
It would also advertise to police and other road users if restricted licence holders broke the rules.
Anything that encourages people to be better drivers is a good thing.
However it is not the only tool to help reduce the number of accidents involving younger drivers.
Other options could be to limit the engine size of vehicle for those drivers on restricted licences, or for those under a certain age.
Making insurance compulsory would be another deterrent.
Fewer younger drivers would be on the road in a vehicle that was beyond their capabilities - either because it was too powerful or modified - because it would also be beyond their pocket.
Such as my friend on Cameron Rd, driving a Subaru and looking as though he should be in school uniform.
Give the boy an R plate.
