EDMONTON (660 NEWS) — The Alberta government is hiring private driving examiners in an effort to reduce vast backlogs that have some people waiting months to take a road test.
Minister of Transportation Ric McIver made the announcement Thursday, saying wait times grew after the former NDP government de-privatized the system last year.
“The previous government blew up the old system and rushed implementation of the public model, causing months of delays for Albertans seeking a road test. Some Albertans are waiting up to 12 weeks for an exam,” he said. “This is unacceptable. We are taking action to reduce wait times by licensing more examiners, while we continue to review options for a long-term, permanent system that delivers services at a level Albertans expect.”
RELATED: Long wait times worry driver examiners in Alberta
On average, Albertans seek approximately 14,000 road tests each month, with a peak during summer when demand spikes to about 20,000 tests each month.
“This is a positive first step toward ensuring registry agents and Albertans can rely on more timely service,” explained Minister of Service Alberta, Nate Glubish.
More support for Minister @RicMcIver’s action to decrease driver’s test wait times. #ableg pic.twitter.com/EllZYbwZQN
— Nate Glubish (@nateglubish) September 12, 2019
Alberta Transportation will be requesting applications for qualified individuals from outside of government to be licensed to deliver road tests.
Driver examiners employed by the Government of Alberta will continue to provide road tests across the province.
Information about how to apply for a licence can be found online.
