Aussie claims they were turned away from driving test over little-known road rule
The Sydney driver says they weren't allowed to do the driving test – and forfeited the fee – thanks to their car's rear indicator.
Australians are being reminded to read up on some of our lesser-known road rules after a Sydneysider claimed to have been rejected from sitting their driving test because their blinkers "weren't orange enough".
Taking to social media this week, the prospective driver wrote that "Service NSW refused to let me sit my driving test" because, apparently, their car's indicator lights weren't of satisfactory colouring.
"Is this reasonable?" the learner questioned. "We’ve had it serviced by multiple mechanics over the years and no one's mentioned it. They also refused to refund me."
Other drivers expressed shock online, saying they'd never heard of such a rule, however some argued it should be common knowledge. "I'd lodge a complaint, at the very least they should have given you a refund or warning," one person said in response.
"Yeah that’s BS, mate, can’t get much more orange than that can it?" said another.
"Looks pretty amber to me," somebody else wrote. Another person said it appeared the car in question needed "a blinker fluid top up".
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What does the law say when it comes to indicators?
A spokesperson for ServiceNSW said the department wasn't able to comment on individual cases when questioned by Yahoo about the driver's indicator claims.
However the department urged all drivers undergoing a test to make sure their vehicle meets standards.
"Before a driving test starts, the testing officer will ensure the applicant’s vehicle is suitable and safe for use," the spokesperson said.
"There are several reasons a driving test can be terminated including the applicant’s vehicle indicator lights do not operate, are damaged, dirty or discoloured."
In footage uploaded alongside the post, a silver SUV is seen with a blinking indictor light, which appears to be adequately orange and luminous.
In terms of the legislation, in NSW at least, the rules are pretty clear when it comes to indicators and how they should be maintained. For example, the state government stipulates online that a "test will be terminated" if any number of indicator offences "cannot be rectified at the time of the test".
These include if the testing vehicle is not suitable for safe use and if indicator lights (including side repeaters) or brake lights do not operate, are incomplete, dirty or discoloured.
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