IELTS sample essay: driving age 21
Should individuals be allowed to drive before they turn 21? This type of controversial question often appears in IELTS writing exams, challenging test-takers to develop clear arguments and strong academic structure. In this IELTS sample essay on driving age 21,
we explore the issue from multiple angles, helping you understand how to construct a strong argument. You’ll find two versions of the response: one using lower-level vocabulary typical of a Band 5.5 essay, and another enhanced with advanced grammar, cohesive devices, and academic vocabulary — perfect for aiming Band 7 and beyond. Compare the two to see exactly what examiners look for and how you can level up your writing.
Some people believe that individuals should be at least 21 years old before they are permitted to drive a car. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?Support your answer with relevant reasons and examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Band 5.5
In my opinion, I do not fully agree that people must be 21 years old to drive a car. I think people can start learning to drive early if they are careful and responsible individuals. There are both advantages and disadvantages for young people to drive cars at a younger age.
Firstly, when people are 18, they are already adult in many countries. They go to university or start working. In this time, it is important to move easily and driving help with this. For example, when I started university, I needed to go to my classes and part-time job. Without a car, it was very hard. If I waited until 21, I would have problems. So driving at 18 is useful for young people’s independence and daily life.
However, I also think some young people are not mature. They drive too fast or use mobile phone when driving. This is dangerous and can cause accidents. Many car accidents are because of young drivers who do not have enough experience. So it can be better to wait longer, until they are more mature and know about responsibility and safety.
To conclude, I believe that not all young people are the same. Some are ready to drive at 18, but some are not. I think the best solution is not to make the age 21, but to make the driving test more hard and include more lessons. This way, only serious and ready people can pass and drive safely on the roads.
(251 words)
Band 5.5 Justification (Driving Age IELTS Essay)
Task Response
- The essay addresses the prompt and presents a clear opinion.
- Ideas are basic, with limited explanation or detailed support.
- Examples are simple and sometimes repetitive.
- The conclusion restates ideas rather than developing them.
Coherence and Cohesion
- Paragraphing is used, but idea progression is not fully logical or smooth.
- Cohesive devices (“firstly,” “however,” etc.) are repeated and mechanical.
- Linking between sentences is limited, and transitions feel abrupt.
Lexical Resource
- Vocabulary is appropriate but basic; range is limited.
- Common words are repeated (“people,” “drive,” “young,” “problem”).
- Incorrect word choices occur (“more hard”).
- Little attempt at synonyms or precise expressions.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy
- Mostly simple sentence structures; few accurate complex sentences.
- Frequent mistakes in verb forms, articles, and word order.
- Errors sometimes affect clarity (“driving help with this”).
- Punctuation is inconsistent.
Overall Band Score Justification: 5.5
- The essay communicates a position but lacks development.
- Vocabulary and grammar are basic with frequent errors.
- Cohesion is limited, and progression of ideas is weak.
- Meets minimum requirements of Band 5: meaning generally clear but control is limited.
Band 7–7.5
In many countries, people are allowed to drive when they turn 18. However, some argue that the minimum age should be raised to 21 to improve road safety. While I understand the reasons behind this view, I largely disagree with it and believe that 18 is an appropriate age to begin driving, provided that proper training and testing are in place.
One argument in favour of raising the age limit is that young drivers, particularly those under 21, may lack the maturity and experience to handle the responsibility of driving. It is true that impulsive decisions, overconfidence, and peer pressure can lead to reckless behaviour on the road. Supporters of this idea often point to statistics that show a higher rate of accidents among younger drivers.
However, I believe the solution lies not in increasing the age limit but in improving driver education. Rather than delaying driving until 21, governments could invest in more comprehensive driving courses that include not just basic skills, but also defensive driving techniques, hazard perception, and emotional regulation. Many 18-year-olds are mature enough to drive safely if they are given the right preparation and guidance.
Moreover, in many parts of the world, driving is not just a convenience but a necessity. Young adults may need to drive to get to work, attend university, or support their families. Imposing a higher age requirement would unfairly limit their independence and opportunities, especially in areas where public transport is limited or unreliable.
In conclusion, although there are valid concerns about young drivers, I do not believe that increasing the legal driving age to 21 is the best approach. With proper training and strict licensing procedures, 18-year-olds can drive responsibly and safely.
(283 words)
Band 7–7.5 Justification (Driving Age IELTS Essay)
Task Response
- Presents a clear and consistent position throughout.
- Acknowledges the opposing argument and responds to it logically.
- Ideas are relevant, explained clearly, and supported convincingly.
- Conclusion restates the view logically and appropriately.
🔍 Improvement tip: Add richer real-world examples to push toward Band 8.
Coherence and Cohesion
- Well-structured paragraphs with clear progression of ideas.
- Effective use of cohesive devices (“however,” “moreover,” “in conclusion”).
- Logical organisation that supports the argument flow.
🔍 Improvement tip: Make paragraph transitions smoother by linking ideas more explicitly.
Lexical Resource
- Good range of vocabulary with accurate and natural collocations.
- Uses terms like “hazard perception,” “defensive driving,” and “independence.”
- Minor areas where more sophisticated expression could enhance clarity.
🔍 Improvement tip: Integrate more precise or less common collocations for Band 8.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy
- Mix of simple and complex sentences, largely accurate.
- Controls relative clauses, conditionals, and passive structures.
- Minor errors appear but do not affect meaning.
🔍 Improvement tip: Try more sophisticated structures (e.g., inversion, complex conditionals).
Overall Band 7 Justification
- Clear, persuasive position throughout the essay.
- Well-developed ideas with logical organisation.
- Vocabulary and grammar demonstrate flexibility and control.
- Minor lapses prevent it from reaching Band 8, but overall very strong.
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