Young drivers are getting a break on their L-plate exam after a rise in the number of failed tests.
The Queensland Government has decided to revamp the test, from a written and timed multiple choice questionnaire to an online simulation-style exam called PrepL.
Hopeful drivers will be able to sit the new test at home online, at their own speed, and they will not be charged to try again if they don’t pass.
About 30 per cent of would-be drivers fail the written multiple choice examination, with more than 100 each day needing to retake the test.
Test your knowledge: The Queensland L-plate exam will change from a written test, to an online simulation (pictured). Do you know what the right answer is here?
On the road: Young people are failing the written test in droves, but Acting Main Roads Minister Steven Miles says the new exam is designed to better prepare drivers for real-life situations
The new questions are set to be similar to the NSW P2 test, and show animated simulations asking if it is safe to turn or overtake based on the information provided in the graphic.
Screenshots of the exam also show a hint button available in the bottom right corner of the test screen.
Acting Main Roads Minister Steven Miles last month said the test would better prepare learner drivers for real-world situations.
‘Students won’t just learn the road rules with PrepL, they’ll learn why the rules exist, and in a virtual environment, they will experience the consequences of poor driving behaviour,’ he said in a statement.
‘If successful, PrepL could replace the current 30-question written test as early as next year and will ensure learners not only know the road rules, but understand the impact of the Fatal Five: speeding, drink and drug driving, failure to wear a seatbelt, driving while fatigued and distraction.’
Drive to succeed: The new test (pictured) can be taken at home and at the hopeful driver’s own pace. In the event of a fail, a retake is free. How would you fare with this question?
Do it anywhere: The exam – available through computer, smartphone and tablet – will also include real-life stories from crash victims, their families, paramedics and researchers
The test was designed by training development agency Croomo, who have been working on the program for the past two years.
Croomo CEO Daniel Bermingham said the new test – the first revamp to the system in four decades, and available through computer, smartphone and tablet – is more than just a quiz.
‘Through PrepL, learner drivers will be taught modules, unlocking each section as they progress by correctly answering questions on each topic,’ he said.
‘They will also see and hear the true-life stories of people affected by fatal accidents, including paramedics, firefighters and the loved ones victims leave behind.
‘Queensland researchers also appear in video clips to explain details like why our brains can’t cope with texting and driving, how alcohol impairs judgement and how seatbelts save lives.’
The test will be trialled at six high schools over the next few months before being rolled out state wide.
Learning curve: The test will be trialled at six high schools around Queensland and is set to be rolled out state-wide over the next few months