The government plans to invest an additional N$25 million to roll out a computerised learner licence testing system and digital booking platform to all 43 NaTIS centres nationwide, following an initial investment of approximately N$1.2 million in the pilot project at the Okahandja NaTIS Centre.
The planned investment follows the official launch of the Computerised Learner’s Licence Testing Method and Book & Pay System at the Okahandja NaTIS Centre on Monday, where 450 applicants have already been assessed during the first two weeks of operation.
Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi said the nationwide rollout would include 288 testing units.
“An additional N$25 million will be invested to implement this system at all 43 NaTIS centres countrywide with 288 testing units,” Nekundi said.
The new system replaces paper-based learner licence testing with a standardised computerised platform designed to improve security, reduce fraud and enhance efficiency in the licensing process.
According to Nekundi, the initiative forms part of broader efforts to modernise Namibia’s transport sector and strengthen the integrity of the licensing system.
“This initiative introduces a secure, standardised computerised testing system nationwide. It will prevent paper-based test leakages, deliver instant results, expand daily testing capacity, and strengthen data security and system integrity,” he said.
The first phase at the Okahandja NaTIS Centre currently offers four testing sessions per day, with a capacity of 18 applicants per session.
Government has already invested approximately N$1.2 million in the pilot implementation at the centre.
“So far, 450 applicants have been assessed, with a current pass rate of 14%. This is not a concern but proof that the system is restoring integrity,” Nekundi said.
He said the low pass rate reflected the elimination of leaked examination papers and a greater emphasis on applicants demonstrating genuine knowledge of traffic laws and road safety regulations.
“Without leaked papers, applicants must now demonstrate genuine knowledge of road rules and traffic regulations. That is how we build safer roads,” he said.
The rollout will next be extended to Gobabis, Karibib and Keetmanshoop before being progressively introduced at all NaTIS centres by March 2027.
Roads Authority board chairperson Martins Kambulu said the system incorporates several anti-fraud measures, including webcam monitoring, biometric verification and randomised test structures.
“These measures include webcam monitoring during examinations, random biometric verification to confirm the identity of applicants, randomisation of test questions and test structures, strict time limitations, and restricted system access and enhanced security controls,” Kambulu said.
The Roads Authority said applicants will now receive their test results immediately after completing their examinations, reducing delays associated with manual marking.
Kambulu said the introduction of the Book & Pay System would also reduce queues and improve public access to licensing services through digital booking and payment options.
“Through digital booking and payment capabilities, we are reducing queues, improving turnaround times, and offering customers a more efficient and user-friendly experience,” he said.
