Kerala to change pattern of ‘learner’s licence exam’ on October 1

The Kerala Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) is all set to overhaul the ‘learner’s licence examination’ being followed in the State from October 1 by introducing changes in the learner’s licence question paper model. According to C.H. Nagaraju, the Transport Commissioner, Kerala, currently, 20 multiple-choice questions with 3 or 4 options are asked in the Part 1 test (online test). Sixty percent is the minimum mark required to pass, with at least 12 correct answers out of 20. Each question has to be answered within 15 seconds.

In the new pattern of the learner’s licence online exam, this will change to 30 multiple-choice questions. One must correctly answer at least 18 questions, which is again a 60% cut-off. Each question has to be answered within 30 seconds, as usual. The syllabus from which the questions will be asked is available on the new MVD LEADS Mobile App. The App also offers practice tests and mock tests for candidates to practise before attempting the actual learner’s licence exam. This system will be implemented from October 1, 2025.

The MVD also envisages a system of issuing road safety certificates to citizens who pass various levels in the MVD LEADS App mock tests. The road safety certificate is an exemption from attending a mandatory pre-learner’s road safety class during the 30-day learner’s licence period before attempting the track test and road test.

Students who download this app will also be able to avail student ticket concessions in private buses and KSRTC buses by displaying a QR code to the conductor, who can scan and authenticate the travel. The MVD is also going to make it mandatory for motor driving school instructors to pass the MVD LEADS App test and obtain a certificate in order to continue to teach driving and to hold the instructor licence. The MVD has made it mandatory for all department staff to pass the road safety certificate exam. The result will be reflected in their annual performance report and other service benefits.