Captcha issue forces Kerala MVD to revise learners’ licence test format — know what has changed

The Kerala Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) has made small but major changes to the recent reforms in the learners’ licence test after a steep drop in the number of candidates passing the exam. The earlier version, introduced with new question formats, had led to widespread failures and complaints from applicants.

Captcha questions reduced

Officials have now reduced the number of captcha-based questions, which had emerged as a major obstacle for test-takers.

The earlier test had 20 questions, but the revised version increased this to 30, requiring 18 correct answers to pass. Every fourth question involved a captcha-type response that had to be entered using a mix of upper and lower case English letters and numbers.

Candidates faced nine captcha questions in total, which many found time-consuming, especially those less skilled in computer typing. Standard questions allowed 30 seconds, while captcha questions gave 45 seconds. Nearly 80 per cent of candidates failed to complete the test on time.

Time pressure and confusion

Many candidates reported that they ran out of time midway through the test, particularly during the first captcha question. Frustration over the new format led to poor results across centres. Responding to these complaints, authorities have reduced the captcha-based questions from nine to three, offering relief to applicants.

However, despite this change, some candidates remain hesitant. Several claim that certain questions fall outside the prescribed syllabus, while others find them confusing and misleading.

Long waiting periods persist

In addition to the test difficulties, applicants face long waiting periods to secure a test date. Those who fail must reapply and wait again, further delaying the process.

Since passing the learners’ licence test is mandatory before taking the driving test, the delay has caused inconvenience for working individuals and students struggling to fit the process into their schedules.