‘Relief’: Big win for these would-be drivers

People across NSW now have the option to earn their L-plates from home as the driver knowledge test (DKT) shifts online in a win for rural and regional drivers.

The Transport for NSW change came into effect on Monday, with learners across the state now able to take their DKT anywhere with internet access.

The move will also lighten the burden on wallets across the state, with the test now able to be taken as many times as needed for a one-off cost of $55 when people apply for their learner licence at a Service NSW centre.

The move would also make the DKT more accessible for people in regional and remote areas, as well as people with low literacy and dyslexia, Transport for NSW Deputy Secretary, Safety, Environment and Regulation Sally Webb said.

“It gives easier access to the test to people who are in regional or remote locations who may not live close to a Service NSW centre and it also has text to speech functionality which makes the product accessible for people with low literacy or dyslexia,” she said.

Ms Webb added the new online model was a “reflection of how people learn today”.

Sophie, a young applicant set to take the DKT online, said having the online option had put her at ease.

“Just the relief of being at home in my own comfort and not having anyone around you really pressure you to do it really helps a lot,” she said.

“As I go into the senior years at school the assessments are piling up, so it’s easier to do it at my own time at home. It really helps me to be able to just do it at my own pace.”

The test is available online 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with Service NSW executive director partnerships, projects and insights Lauren Nagel praising the convenience.

“If customers are unsuccessful passing, learners won’t have the hassle of organising another visit to a service centre and trying to find a time that works with parents or guardians to drive them there, they can simply try again at home,” she said.

The shift is also set to decrease pressure on Service NSW.

“Within 12 months, we’re expecting about 200,000 customers to complete the DKT online, so this will also free up our Service NSW team members to dedicate their time to other critical transactions,” Ms Nagel said.