The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) says there has been a significant decline in fraudulent learner licence passes, following the introduction of computerised testing systems at licensing centres across South Africa.
The computerised learner licence testing system, introduced in 2021, was implemented to combat widespread fraud and corruption in the issuing of learner driver licences, improve efficiency and enhance road safety.
Before the rollout of the technology, officials at testing centres were reportedly able to identify question papers in advance and illegally provide learners with answers before the test, allowing unqualified applicants to pass.
According to the RTMC, the new system has closed that loophole by randomly selecting question papers electronically, preventing officials from knowing which test will be used beforehand.
The system also automatically marks the tests and determines whether candidates have answered correctly.
The impact of the reforms has been reflected in the national pass rate for learner licence tests, which has dropped sharply from 68% to 40% since the implementation of the computerised system.
The RTMC said the lower pass rate indicates that fewer incompetent drivers are obtaining learner licences, a development the corporation believes will contribute to improved road safety and a reduction in road crashes.
Despite the progress, the RTMC warned that some corrupt officials are attempting to develop new methods to assist learners illegally.
“Some arrests have been made in this regard recently and the process of identifying beneficiaries is underway,” the corporation said.
The RTMC issued a warning to 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 corporation said. – SAnews.gov.za
