Rwanda Begins Automatic Transmission Driving Tests with 27 Candidates

Elias Hakizimana Sep 10, 2024 0 Comments

By The Inspirer.

Rwanda National Police Introduces Automatic Transmission Driving Tests

The Rwanda National Police (RNP) rolled out its first-ever driving tests for automatic transmission vehicles on Monday, September 9, with 27 candidates participating at four different test centers across the country.

Busanza Hosts Majority of Candidates
Out of the total candidates, 22 took their tests at the Busanza Automated Driving Centre, while the Gahanga and Kicukiro centers received three and two candidates, respectively. In Musanze, one candidate sat for the test, according to the RNP.

Excitement from Candidates
Marie Faustine Iradukunda, one of the candidates, shared her enthusiasm after completing the test successfully. “With the growing number of automatic transmission cars and my desire to drive one, I was excited when I heard about today’s tests,” she told The New Times after passing at the Busanza Centre.

Public Demand Drives Change
Chief Superintendent of Police Emmanuel Hitayezu, Director of Testing in the RNP’s Testing and Licensing Department, emphasized that these tests were introduced following significant public demand. “For some time, Rwandans have requested automatic transmission driving tests, and now, after thorough consideration and a presidential order, the regulations for road usage have been updated to include automatic driving licenses,” he explained.

**Chief Superintendent of Police Emmanuel Hitayezu, Director of Testing in the RNP’s Testing and Licensing Department.**

Clarifying Misconceptions About Test Difficulty
Addressing misconceptions, Hitayezu pointed out that while some may assume automatic transmission tests are easier, they still require thorough preparation. “Although some candidates passed today, others didn’t. Success comes only to those who are well-prepared,” he noted, without disclosing the number of successful candidates.

Differences Between Automatic and Manual Licenses
Hitayezu clarified that those holding a license for manual transmission vehicles can operate both manual and automatic cars, but drivers with an automatic transmission license are restricted to automatic cars only. “As automatic cars become more prevalent, many drivers are opting for automatic licenses,” he added.

Safety Measures and Test Preparation
Reassuring the public, Hitayezu stressed that the new tests would not result in more accidents. “Only those who demonstrate the required driving skills can pass. We urge everyone to properly prepare for these tests by attending driving schools, regardless of the vehicle type.”

Challenges and Solutions for Vehicle Availability
Although there was a shortage of automatic transmission vehicles for Monday’s tests, Hitayezu assured that the police are collaborating with driving schools to increase the number of available vehicles. Additionally, he mentioned that the testing capacity is underutilized, with 100 slots available daily.