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 curb widespread fraud and corruption in the issuing of learner driver licences, while also improving efficiency and enhancing road safety.
Before the rollout of the technology, officials at some testing centres were allegedly 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 eliminated that loophole by randomly selecting question papers electronically, making it impossible for officials to know beforehand which test will be used.
The corporation said the system also automatically marks the tests and determines whether candidates have answered correctly, reducing the possibility of human interference in the process.
The impact of the reforms has been reflected in the national learner licence pass rate, 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 help reduce road crashes.
Despite the progress, the RTMC warned that some corrupt officials are attempting to devise new methods to illegally assist learner drivers.
“Some arrests have been made in this regard recently and the process of identifying beneficiaries is underway,” the corporation said.
The RTMC also warned aspiring drivers against paying officials for assistance in passing learner licence tests.
The corporation said anyone found participating in fraudulent activities could face arrest, criminal charges and severe penalties if convicted.
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