Loke: Only one theory test for would-be motorists soon

PETALING JAYA: The theory examinations for those who take their motorcycle and car driving licences separately may be standardised soon, says Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

He said some motorists told him that they have to go for the theory examination for their motorcycle licence, and repeat the same process for their car driving licence.

“This is unlike some time ago when we could just complete the theory examination once for both licences.

“I think we can simplify this to lessen the people’s burden,” he said during a 988 FM radio interview on Monday.

He said the proposal had been put forward when he was Transport Minister in 2018.

Under existing rules, it was reported that anyone who does not obtain a motorcycle licence and a car licence at the same time must complete two theory examinations.

The examination will have 50 multiple choice questions, with a minimum passing grade of 84%, or 42 questions answered correctly.

However, the examination will contain 70 multiple choice questions for those who obtain both licences at the same time, with a minimum of 59 questions answered correctly.

Furthermore, Loke said that he will soon make a statement on the extension of the validity time of the renewed driver’s licence.

He said that he was aware of public comment that the maximum validity term of a licence was currently five years and that he wanted the government to increase it to 10 years.

“An announcement will be made soon,” he added.

Meanwhile, commenting that Penang needs the Light Rail Transit (LRT) to reduce congestion, Loke said it will be a huge challenge as Penang is an island and many places have historical value that cannot be demolished or expanded.

“The roads in Penang are not easy to restructure to ease traffic,” he said, adding that the Penang state government has been asking for the establishment of an LRT for many years.

He said the Federal Government is in discussion with the Penang state government.

“We hope that the plan for an LRT in Penang will be finalised by next year, before the tabling of the budget,” he said.