LTA introduces compulsory course for Class 2 learner permit applicants

Anyone applying for a Class 2 learner driver's permit will have to complete a mandatory driver education course before sitting the Driver Knowledge Test from Monday, August 10, under new Land Transport Authority (LTA) requirements aimed at improving road safety.

The Land Transport Authority announced the introduction of the Learner Driver Course (LDC), which all Class 2 Learner Permit applicants must successfully complete before becoming eligible to sit the Driver Knowledge Test.

The course will be provided free of charge at all LTA branches nationwide. Applicants who complete the course will receive an LDC Advice Slip, which must be presented before they can take the test.

LTA chief executive Irimaia Rokosawa said the new requirement was designed to ensure learner drivers understood their responsibilities before getting behind the wheel.

"The introduction of the mandatory Learner Driver Course reflects the Authority's commitment to ensuring new drivers begin their licensing journey with a strong understanding of road safety principles, P1 and P2 licensing system, showcause proceedings, digital logbooks, response to accidents and emergencies, traffic laws and the responsibilities that come with operating a motor vehicle," Mr Rokosawa said.

"We have always reiterated that driving is a privilege that carries significant responsibility. Before an individual gets behind the wheel, they must understand not only the road rules, but also the consequences of unsafe decisions and behaviours on the road."

Mr Rokosawa said the course had been developed to equip learner drivers with the knowledge and awareness needed to become safer and more responsible road users before progressing to practical driving.

"Many road crashes are preventable and are often linked to poor decision-making, limited understanding of road rules and unsafe driving behaviour. This initiative is about building the right attitudes and behaviours at the earliest stage of the licensing process," he said.

The course will cover road rules, traffic signs and signals, driver responsibilities, hazard awareness, defensive driving principles, safe road user behaviour, and the importance of sharing the road with pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and other motorists.

Mr Rokosawa said the initiative formed part of the Authority's broader strategy to reduce road crashes, serious injuries and fatalities through stronger driver education, improved compliance and proactive road safety measures.