Starting July 8, the government will limit driver license test applicants to one free re-sit.
This change aims to address long waiting times for tests.
Applicants taking class one theory or practical tests will only get one free re-sit, and any additional tests will cost money. The re-sit fees are $47.48 for a learner’s license, $89.39 for a restricted license, and $62.52 for a full license.
Previously, all re-sit fees were removed to reduce costs and encourage more people to get their licenses. However, this led to a surge in demand, causing long waits at testing centres. Transport Minister Simeon Brown called these delays “unacceptable” and stated the new rules would help manage wait times and encourage better preparation for tests.
A three-month transition period will allow those who paid under the old system to progress through their current stage. Labour criticised the new policy, saying it would strain budgets since about half of all drivers need to re-sit their tests. However, Brown emphasised that the changes would reduce no-shows and ensure that people are better prepared.
In addition, efforts are being made to increase test capacity by hiring more testing officers and expanding testing hours. Text alerts will also remind people of their test dates to ensure they show up.
The AA, which runs many test centres, welcomed the changes, saying they will help manage the high demand for driver licensing services.
