De-privatizing road tests a welcome decision

By Jeremy Appel on October 3, 2018.

jappel@medicinehatnews.com @MHNJeremyAppel

A local driving instructor says the provincial government’s move to de-privatize road testing will make quality examination accessible to more Albertans, particularly those in rural areas.

Prior to Tuesday, Alberta was the only province with private road testing, which has been in place since 1993.

Starting in March, there will be a flat fee of $83 for a standard Class 5 licence and $219 for a Class 1 commercial truck.

“I’m liking the fact that the road test fees are being standardized,” said Mona Delaney, owner of Drivers Edge.

“In a lot of places throughout Alberta, it’s definitely needed.”

She said Hatters are fortunate “because our examiners here are amazing,” but the quality of examination in rural areas is less consistent.

Under the private regime, prices fluctuated between urban and rural, as well as different urban areas, Delaney added.

The change will also make it easier for rural students to access testing, she said.

The Alberta Motor Association also came out in support of de-privatization.

COO Michelle Chimko said in a statement that the new legislation makes the province’s examination system more “user-friendly.”

“We believe everyone should be able to schedule a road test conveniently and wherever they choose,” she said. “Even more importantly, the road-testing fee should be clearly stated so everyone knows where their dollars are going.”

According to the Transportation Ministry, examiners will now be government employees, which will ensure enhanced oversight.

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