PSV driver license applications to be reviewed due to increase in road deaths and serious accidents

The application for obtaining a public service vehicle driver's license will be reviewed due to the increase in road deaths and serious accidents.

This has been highlighted by the Land Transport Authority and says this is also due to some drivers driving buses without proper licenses and causing accidents.

LTA says the revised requirements for all PSV driver's license applications will require applicants to be mature and experienced drivers with clean driving records, assessing the TIN History, Medical Fitness and CRO record before considering the application for PSV license including Class 5.

LTA says in 2017, the minimum age requirement was revised from 21 and reduced to 18 years for PSV classes including class 5 and in the past, a Class 2 driver's license holder could go directly to apply for class 5 to drive an omnibus. However, this has been reviewed.

The Authority says this is to prioritise the safety of the public by emphasising the need for driving experience and to ensure that those operating public transports in Fiji are not only skilled drivers but also play a vital role in maintaining the safety of both passengers and other road users.

LTA further says they are reviewing the driver licence issuance process for P1 and P2 license holders, as well as the criteria for obtaining a Public Service Vehicle driver license, lobbying for the introduction of demerit points as a deterrent and advocating for tougher penalties, introduction of a mandatory Defensive Driving Course for class 2 full driver license holders, and the enhancement of Gold Card services including drug tests for applicants submitting their medical assessment for PSV licence.

The Authority says they are working closely with stakeholders to foster a change in mindset for drivers, pedestrians and passengers on our roads, to value life and do right by following and adhering to road safety rules.

They say throughout the festive season they will increase its presence in high-risk areas and continue to target black spots around the country, beef up joint operations with the Fiji police force at various checkpoints, and strengthen community and public outreach to ensure road safety is a priority across all levels of society as these are vital measures to mitigate the risks and dangers of bad driving habits and behaviours on our roads.

LTA is also advising motorists to refrain from speeding, slow down and keep to the speed limit as it is not worth losing a life that could be avoided