A new app to digitally record learner driver logbook hours and trips has been developed to simplify the process of getting a driver's licence in Western Australia.
The latest change follows the State Government's introduction of strengthened driver testing processes in October 2017, and is part of ongoing improvements to how Western Australians attain a licence.
The new improvements include the development of a Learner Log Book application - Learn&Log - and the continued delivery of an integrated electronic medical assessment tool to streamline the assessment process for drivers with medical conditions.
The launch of Learn&Log will enable learner drivers to transition from paper to digital and provides a faster, more convenient way to record and submit supervised driving hours.
Designed with safety in mind, the app lets you 'set and forget' - there is no reason for learner drivers or their supervisors to interact with their mobile phone while driving.
Learn&Log's public release is planned for early 2019, following the successful completion of a trial with selected learner drivers.
Meanwhile, the Department of Transport (DoT) is also addressing practical driving assessment (PDA) wait times by:
- Recruiting an additional six assessors, starting in February;
- Trialling the use of SMS reminders to combat PDA no-shows (10 per cent of bookings go to waste due to no-shows or attempts to use unregistered/unsafe vehicles);
- Changing session times to increase the number of assessments conducted; and
- Trialling extended hours at the new Kelmscott appointment-only centre during the week and on Saturdays.
Keeping with the paperless theme, DoT continues to work closely with selected GP clinics in both metropolitan and regional locations to raise their awareness of the electronic medical assessment tool and to encourage doctors to go paperless.
The technology improves the speed and quality of information required to confirm fitness to drive which is exchanged between the Department of Transport, health practitioners and drivers - saving all parties time and money.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"We encourage novice drivers to get as much driving experience in as many conditions as possible before attempting a practical driving assessment.
"This trial is a result of DoT listening to the community regarding the novice driver process and will ensure applicants have greater access and flexibility when learning to drive.
"We will continue to enhance and expand digital services in 2018-19 with a focus on introducing e-billing, enhancing fleet management functionality and developing an online vehicle licence fee calculator."
