Spend as much as you can afford on the SAFEST vehicle possible. Buying your teen their first car is a huge milestone. It’s so important to get the safest car you can. Look at later model cars in a price range you can afford, preferably with: Airbags ABS Good all-round visibility Tyre quality and condition The MOST important safety feature in a car, though, sits behind the steering wheel… Discuss with your teen what type of car is suitable and what they will be using it for. If they are  driving to and from school and around town then something smaller and more economical would  suit better. If you live in a more remote area a robust vehicle might be better. They may need  something with a bigger boot to fit sports gear in. The pair of you need to decide what type of car fits  their purpose and focus on that. It may require some compromising. If you are buying a used car give it a check, look at the oil and water and see if they are clean. Check  to see if it has been well maintained and has a service history. Check the tyres have good tread and  everything works. Take it for a test drive and get a gauge for how it runs. It would also pay to get it  inspected by a professional. You can check the history to see if it is legitimate or has any money  owing on it. Motor scooters or mopeds More young people are purchasing motor scooters as an affordable means of transport. Although a  scooter/ moped does not need a W.O.F., you must register and licence your moped. It is up to  you/and your teen to: make sure their moped is fitted with equipment that complies with the law make sure their moped is maintained in a safe operating condition wear their motorcycle helmet follow the road rules.   If they don’t, they could get an infringement fine or be taken to court. Help – Refer to the website https://www.nzta.govt.nz/ to check your teens moped has all the correct  equipment needed to comply with the law. Check out the Automobile Association – https://www.aa.co.nz/drivers/motorcycle-training/ Check out Trade Me for quality safety gear: jackets, pants, boots, and helmets. Many riding schools  have courses for novice scooter riders and teach essential skills and techniques.