Because it is a well-accepted fact that young persons have more than their share of automobile crashes and because the task of driving is a complex one that requires practice to be mastered, it is proposed that a careful human factors analysis of the task of driving be undertaken based on empirically demonstrated differences among driver groups. Such an analysis should include the following procedures: identification of human performance parameters relevant to driving, empirical determination of differences between novice and experienced drivers, determination of the amenability to training of the identified factors, development of training procedures using interactive devices and simulators when possible, compilation of procedures into a driver preparation program, coordination with televised material covering the classroom portion of driver education, development of a parent involvement program, determination of a minimum level of each factor required for different driver groups, compilation of scales into performance test batteries and elimination of overlap, tailoring of the test battery to existing constraints, use of the test battery in a licensure demonstration project, investigation of the possible role of factors in crashes of different driver groups, determination of the compatibility of driver performance with highway engineering standards and vehicle standards, modification of standards and practices where appropriate, and imposition of restrictions on driver populations where necessary. The human factors approach appears to be one way of developing an intelligent comprehensive driver-vehicle-highway system. (MN)