Only 40% of drivers pass learner licence test in South Africa
· The South African
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) says there has been a significant drop in fraudulent learner licence passes since the introduction of computerised testing systems at licensing centres across South Africa.
The computerised learner licence testing system, introduced in 2021, was designed to tackle widespread fraud and corruption linked to the issuing of learner driver licences, while also improving efficiency and road safety.
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New technology
Before the rollout of the new technology, officials at some testing centres were reportedly able to identify question papers in advance and illegally provide applicants with answers before the test, allowing unqualified learners to pass.
According to the RTMC, the new system has effectively closed that loophole by electronically and randomly selecting question papers, preventing officials from knowing beforehand which test will be issued.
The system also automatically marks tests and determines whether candidates have answered correctly, limiting opportunities for manipulation.
The impact of the changes has been reflected in the national learner licence pass rate, which has declined sharply from 68% to 40% since the implementation of the computerised system.
Improved road safety
The RTMC said the lower pass rate suggests that fewer incompetent drivers are obtaining learner licences, which could contribute to improved road safety and a reduction in crashes on South African roads.
Despite the progress, the corporation warned that some corrupt officials are still attempting to develop new methods to illegally assist learners.
“Some arrests have been made in this regard recently and the process of identifying beneficiaries is underway,” the RTMC said.
The corporation also warned aspiring drivers against paying officials for assistance in passing learner licence tests.
Anyone found participating in fraudulent activities could face arrest, criminal charges and severe penalties if convicted, the RTMC said.