New Driver Advice5 min read
Why Gen Z Is Driving Less (And What It Means for You)
If you have noticed that fewer young people seem to be rushing to get their driver's licences these days, you are not imagining it. Research from across the world shows that Generation Z (born 1997-2012) is driving less than any previous generation at the same age.
In brief
Gen Z is driving less globally due to rideshares, cost, and changing lifestyles In South Africa, a driver's licence remains a practical necessity for many people Rideshares and public transport are unreliable in many areas
Introduction: Why Gen Z Is Driving Less (And What It Means for You)
If you have noticed that fewer young people seem to be rushing to get their driver's licences these days, you are not imagining it. Research from across the world shows that Generation Z (born 1997-2012) is driving less than any previous generation at the same age.
But why? And does it matter?
Who Is Generation Z?
Gen Z are people currently aged roughly 13 to 27. They grew up with smartphones, social media, and rideshare apps as part of everyday life.
Why Is Gen Z Driving Less?
Uber, Bolt, and inDriver have made it incredibly easy to get from A to B without a car. For many young people in South Africa's cities, rideshares are cheaper than owning and maintaining a car.
Getting your driver's licence costs thousands of rands. Then add a car (even second-hand), insurance, fuel, and maintenance - it adds up to a significant monthly expense.
Many Gen Z individuals say it is simply not worth the cost when rideshares and public transport are available.
In major South African cities, more Gen Z people are living close to universities, workplaces, and entertainment - reducing the need for a car.
Gen Z is more environmentally aware than any previous generation. Many are deliberately choosing to drive less to reduce their carbon footprint.
In previous generations, getting your driver's licence at 18 was a major milestone - almost a rite of passage. Today, many Gen Z individuals feel no social pressure to follow this norm.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated remote work and online learning. Many Gen Z individuals realised they could work, socialise, shop, and be entertained without ever leaving home or needing a car.
Does This Matter? The Case for Still Getting a Licence
While the reasons above make sense, there are strong reasons why getting a driver's licence is still a valuable investment:
- Employment opportunities - many jobs in South Africa require a valid driver's licence
- Emergencies - rideshares are not available in every area or at every hour
- Freedom to explore - public transport does not reach rural areas, game parks, or smaller towns
- Future flexibility - circumstances change; having a licence means you are ready when you need it
- Financial sense in less urban areas where public transport is unreliable
What This Means in South Africa Specifically
South Africa is not fully Gen Z's scenario. Public transport remains unreliable in many parts of the country. Load shedding disrupts rideshare apps. And for millions of South Africans, a driver's licence is a genuine career advantage.
Getting your licence in South Africa still makes practical, financial, and career sense for most people.
Key Tips and Summary: Why Gen Z Is Driving Less (And What It Means for You)
- Gen Z is driving less globally due to rideshares, cost, and changing lifestyles
- In South Africa, a driver's licence remains a practical necessity for many people
- Rideshares and public transport are unreliable in many areas
- Many employers still require a driver's licence
- The decision is personal, but having the option is always better than not
Next step
Whether you are part of Gen Z deciding if driving is worth it, or you have made up your mind to get your licence - Ditheto Driving Academy is ready to help.
Professional, affordable lessons that respect your time and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful follow-up answers related to this article.
Why are young people not getting driver's licences?
Rideshares, cost, urban living, and changing attitudes are all contributing factors.
Is it still worth getting a driver's licence in South Africa?
For most South Africans, yes. Employment requirements, reliability of transport, and life circumstances make a licence very valuable.
What is the driving rate among Gen Z?
In South Africa's major cities, more Gen Z learners are delaying getting their licences compared to previous generations. Rideshare apps, the high cost of a car, and unreliable public transport availability all play a role. In smaller towns and rural areas, however, a licence remains near-essential.
Does not having a licence affect your job prospects?
Yes, significantly in South Africa. Many job postings require "own reliable transport" or a valid driver's licence.
What is the cheapest way to get a driver's licence?
Buying lessons in bulk, practising between lessons, and passing first time all reduce the overall cost.
Are rideshare apps reliable in South Africa for daily use?
In major cities, mostly yes. But in smaller towns, townships, and rural areas, reliability drops significantly.