Thiruvananthapuram: To address delays in learner's licence tests caused by shortage of computers at Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) offices, applicants will now be allowed to take the test on their own smartphones. The test will be conducted under the supervision of Motor Vehicle Inspectors at MVD offices.

The MVD LEADS mobile app will be used for the examination. The app is equipped with a facial recognition system to verify the identity of applicants.

To clear the current backlog, learner's licence tests will be held 5 days a week for the next 3 months, replacing the long wait of up to 3 months for a test slot. The new arrangement aims to ensure that applicants get a test appointment within 3 days of applying.

The department is also working to ensure that applicants for driving tests receive appointments within 30 days, while those who fail the test will get another chance within 8 days.

To reduce waiting time further, the daily testing capacity of each Vehicle Inspector has been increased from 40 to 50 driving tests. Learner's tests will be conducted 5 days a week in all MVD offices during the three-month period.

The number of candidates allowed for daily driving tests has also been revised. Each day, 28 new applicants, 20 repeat candidates who previously failed, and 2 students leaving abroad for higher studies will be accommodated.

The Transport Commissioner has also directed that if there are not enough inspectors available to supervise the tests, officials from the Enforcement Wing should be deputed.