Lockdowns hit driving tests

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is working with its contracted provider Vehicle Testing New Zealand (VTNZ) to shorten waiting times for practical driver testing across the country to address an increase in demand after multiple Covid-19 alert-level changes.

VTNZ was unable to conduct practical tests during national and greater Auckland region level three and four lockdowns.

This was because social-distancing requirements necessary to reduce the potential spread of coronavirus could not be achieved between testers and drivers inside vehicles.

This initially resulted in a backlog of about 42,000 practical tests nationwide that were unable to take place during the seven-and-a-half-week nationwide lockdown last year, creating a high demand from those unable to take or book their tests.

Further moves to alert level three in Auckland during August, February and March meant further bookings during those shutdowns needed to be rescheduled. 

While practical driver testing can take place under level two, extra time is required to complete testing while ensuring the health and safety of applicants, support people and testing officers.

To address the issue, Waka Kotahi and VTNZ have increased the availability for testing since the initial coronavirus lockdown and the average number of tests a month nationwide has subsequently increased from about 25,000 to about 27,000 since July. 

All practical tests are conducted by a nationwide team of VTNZ driver-testing officers.

“While we are out of the peak season for driver testing, the impact of Covid-19 restrictions continues to have a flow-on effect on demand,” says Hayley Evans, the agency’s senior manager for systems integrity.

“With already long wait times, this is impacting on wait times to book a practical test.

“The normal maximum wait time to book and sit a practical test is six weeks. Current wait times change day to day based on availability, but in some areas are eight weeks or longer. 

“We know this situation is frustrating for those waiting to sit their tests, and are working hard with VTNZ to address the issue and clear the testing backlog.

“Waka Kotahi is working closely with VTNZ to further increase the capacity of testing by increasing its testing officers nationwide. 

“The requirements to be eligible to train and the comprehensive training required to qualify as a driving testing officer [DTO] means this process takes time before new officers can work to the same capacity as an existing DTO.”

Online bookings for practical driving tests are available through www.nzta.govt.nz up to three to four months in advance.