RTA launches scheme for training driving instructors

Dubai (United Arab Emirates): The Licensing Agency at Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) recently launched the “Transition Scheme'' for Training Driving Instructors & Examiners in accordance with the highest global standards applicable in this field.

“Marine Agency is making sweeping changes covering all affiliated departments to upgrade the level of service provided to customers in line with the vision of the RTA of providing ‘safe and smooth transport for all', said Ali Al-Jasim, Director of Drivers Licensing Dep't at RTA Licensing Agency.

“Licensing Agency is focusing all efforts to bring about a quality shift in training drivers and examiners. This scheme, which is scheduled to be completed by mid of 2009, involves a complete transition and overhaul of the method of testing drivers in Dubai. The new procedure is set to apply clear-cut approach as to the standards and expectations of all those involved in driving license processes.

“Drivers of light vehicles, heavy vehicles, motorcycles and heavy equipment operators will be issued with Drivers Handbooks as reference materials to assist them assimilate the training modules necessary for obtaining driving licenses issued from Dubai.

“These Handbooks will be a source of basic information about laws related to road security & safety in addition to much more information about safe driving. They are also an important source of information needed to clear theoretical & practical tests, and an indispensable tool to ensure safe and enjoyable driving experience.

“Driving instructors will obtain “Instructor Manual''; which is particularly aligned with the information contained in Driver Handbooks, ensuring regular flow of information at all stages. Driving examiners will also get their own manual to direct them in discharging their duties. This represents a giant step towards upgrading training & testing procedure far away from the customary practice where decisions used to be taken without applying clear standards as to the underlying reasons for success or failure. Through provision of these coherent documents, the process will ensure training & testing of drivers on the new requirements & standards of the scheme. This will in turn perform the assessment process in an objective & concerted manner, and also put an end to the subjective judgments which might result in confusion of all related bodies.

“Among the benefits derived from the scheme, is that instructors and examiners will have a great deal of exposure to educational material and new improvements in driver licensing, which will eventually result in graduating qualified drivers, with much emphasis to safety. There is another similar initiative, though will be applied over the long term, highlighting the importance of obtaining professional certification by every person aspiring to be a driving inspector or examiner.

“Licensing Agency is currently gearing for a competency course plus several other initiatives which are being closely considered for implementation. These include introducing changes to the general policy, where road safety ranks high in the list of priorities set for implementation by the RTA as part of its strategic goals. Such changes cover three main components that impact road safety, namely roads, vehicles and drivers. Licensing Agency is assuming a pioneer role in this drive as it is responsible for two of the three components; drivers and vehicles'' said Al-Jasim.