GEORGE NEWS - George Municipality has appointed two new Driver’s Licence Examiners to strengthen capacity at the George Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) and the recently implemented Uniondale facility.
The appointments address ongoing challenges caused by the municipality’s growing population, which has significantly increased demand for learner’s and driver’s licence applications.
Until recently, the George DLTC operated with only one Grade A Examiner of Driving Licences and two Grade L Examiners (responsible for eye testing and learner’s licence testing). When one of these posts became vacant, service delivery was further strained.
The Uniondale Driving Licence Testing Facility, which requires both an additional examiner and a management representative with examiner qualifications, added to the demand.
This shortage contributed to a backlog of appointments for driving licence tests extending until the end of December 2025. Prior to these appointments, the Directorate obtained funding for additional posts and temporarily utilised traffic officers with an Examiner of Driving Licences diploma to assist in meeting demand.
Funding has now been secured to fill existing vacancies, and the two newly appointed examiners bring considerable expertise.
Computerised learner’s licence testing centre in Pacaltsdorp.
They hold Code A and EC driver’s licences, a Grade A Examiner of Driving Licences diploma, and between five and eight years of relevant experience in the field. One examiner commenced duties on 1 August, and a third successful candidate will join the team on 1 September.
“These appointments bring much-needed stability to the Driver’s Licence section,” said Janine Wells, George Traffic Chief.
“It means we will no longer need to depend so heavily on traffic officials who must balance examiner duties with their other operational responsibilities. While it is too early to say whether waiting times for driving tests will be reduced, the implementation of the Computerised Learner’s Licence Test has already created additional slots for learners, which is reducing waiting times in that area.”
Service hours remain prescribed by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), but the appointment of more qualified staff will enable additional tests to be conducted within those hours.
Future plans to further build capacity include advertising for two additional Examiner of Driving Licences posts and upskilling both traffic officers and cashiers to complete the relevant qualifications for learner’s licence and eye testing. The effectiveness of these measures will be monitored.
Wells added: “We encourage residents to make their bookings early, ensure their documentation is complete, and take advantage of the increased capacity. This will help us deliver a smoother, more efficient service for all.”
This initiative forms part of the Municipality’s Strategic Focus Area of keeping George safe, clean and green – contributing to safer roads and the reduction of fatalities.
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