KAJANG: The Transport Ministry has implemented an automated driving licence testing system, known as 'eTesting', which allows candidates to undergo driving tests without the presence of Road Transport Department (RTD) officers inside a vehicle.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the candidates' performance would be assessed using sensors and cameras, with results generated in real-time, thus enhancing the integrity of the assessment process.
"For the use of this system, driving schools may impose a maximum fee of RM100. "However, candidates opting for eTesting will receive several benefits, including the opportunity to retake failed test elements on the same day at no additional cost.
"Candidates will also be given priority in the test scheduling list and receive a rebate of RM10 for the issuance of provisional licenses.
"However, initially candidates will be given the option to undergo manual or eTesting," he said at a press conference after a working visit to oversee the implementation of the eTesting initiative at the Surfine Hitech Driving School in Hulu Langat, here, today.
The eTesting pilot project was initiated at three schools: Surfine Hitech, Berjaya Driving Training Center in Ulu Tiram, Johor, and Lima Bintang Abadi school in Penang.
Loke said the implementation of the system would allow more candidates to be tested compared with the existing system, which accommodates about 150 candidates per day.
Moreover, he said the number of RTD officers assigned to each institution could be reduced from six to two individuals.
He stated that the system could enhance integrity, streamline the issuance of driving licences, facilitate audit processes and electronically monitor testing activities.
"We encourage all institutions to offer eTesting. A six-year transition period will be given for the switch from manual testing to eTesting.
"Institutions may choose eTesting service providers approved by the eTesting Project Assessment Committee, namely Uji Bestari Sdn Bhd, TBS Solutions Sdn Bhd, and KOPIMA Technology Sdn Bhd," he said.
Meanwhile, he said three more eTesting service providers were still under evaluation and will be announced later.