Licence testing to resume on Monday

Jun 12, 2020

DRIVING schools have their foot on the accelerator, with learner permit and licence testing in Victoria to resume from Monday.

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However, the first priority will be to re-book more than 100,00 tests statewide that were postponed due to coronavirus restrictions.

The stopping of driving lessons meant Tongala's Rose-ann Mulholland from R.A.Z. Driving School had to put appointments from more than 30 clients on hold.

Despite the changes, Ms Mulholland said she wanted to hear more information from the state government.

“All of the driving schools in the area are back and working, however, we are adhering to very strict hygiene controls within our own systems,” she said.

“We’ve got our own risk management plans, hygiene plans and our own sanitising going on.

“Anyone who is looking for a booking should contact VicRoads and get their test booked in and ready to go, because they are going to wait until they’ve gone through all of the ones that were previously booked.”

With testing available again, it will also mean the L2P mentor program, which covers the Campaspe Shire, can get its 18 drivers back in the car by June 19.

“It's good news for our students,” program co-ordinator Glynis Kelly said.

“There are several students who have got their hours and ready to be tested. Hopefully we see some new drivers on our roads in the coming weeks.”

Minister for Roads, Road Safety and the TAC, Jaala Pulford, said people with a postponed appointment would be contacted by VicRoads directly to reschedule their test in the order of cancellation.

“We know how important it is to have a driver’s licence, especially for young people who need it for work or study — and we’re now in a position to safely resume testing,” she said.

“It will take a little bit of time to get through the list of those waiting to take a test — we've got a plan for doing this safely and as quickly as possible and are grateful for everyone’s continued patience.”

New appointments will be available once the backlog of postponed tests is cleared.

Everyone is reminded that while VicRoads Customer Service Centres remain open, they should not visit unless their matter is urgent, and are strongly encouraged to complete their transaction online.

Heavy vehicle testing and motorcycle tests will continue as they have done so throughout the past two months.