Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Transport Minister KB Ganesh Kumar recently made driving licence tests more stringent to enhance the competency of licence holders. Following the same rationale, the Motor Vehicles Department is planning to introduce changes to the learner’s licence examination. 

Learner’s test questions and passing criteria 

The revised learner’s test will include 30 questions, an increase from the previous 20. Candidates must answer at least 18 questions correctly (60%) to pass. The time allowed per question has also doubled, from 15 seconds to 30 seconds.

Previously, learners received a booklet of test questions through their driving school. Under the new system, the MVD will provide the complete syllabus, including all questions and answers, through the LEADS mobile application.

Mock test and road safety certificate

Candidates who successfully complete the mock test on the LEADS app will receive a road safety certificate from the MVD. Certificate holders can directly appear for the road test without attending the pre-driving class conducted by department officials.

The department stated:

"Candidates who pass the road safety test on the LEADS app with 80% marks will receive a road safety certificate. Those who obtain it can skip the mandatory post-learner driving class."

Students will be able to access KSRTC and private bus ticket concessions using the LEADS app by scanning a QR code with the conductor.

Driving school instructors and MVD staff are also required to obtain a road safety certificate.

The MVD has advised all applicants to familiarise themselves with the syllabus and make full use of the mock tests available on the LEADS app ahead of the examination.