THE Land Transport Authority says English proficiency is not a formal requirement for Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence applicants but maintains that all drivers must meet strict safety and competency standards under the law.
Responding to questions from this newspaper, the authority was asked to clarify its PSV licensing criteria, including whether English language proficiency is assessed, whether foreign nationals undergo formal language testing, whether the same standards and timelines apply to both local and foreign applicants, and whether complaints had been received about drivers being unable to understand basic English instructions from passengers.
LTA chief executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa said assessments were conducted in accordance with the LTA Act and its regulations.
“The Land Transport Authority assesses all Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence applicants in accordance with the LTA Act and its regulations,” he said.
“The assessment focuses on applicant’s ability to safely operate a PSV and to comply with all conditions stipulated under the law.”
“Evaluating driving competency, knowledge of road safety, and adherence to PSV operational standards.”
“While language comprehension is important for effective communication with passengers and enforcement authorities, the primary requirement under the Act is the applicant’s ability to drive PSV vehicles safely and responsibly in accordance with prescribed conditions.”
He confirmed that “at present, the authority does not conduct a formal English language proficiency assessment for PSV licence applicants.”
However, he said the authority was “working to ensure that appropriate standards are maintained for PSV applicants brought into the country, including the ability to communicate in basic English without the assistance of an interpreter during the assessment process.”
Mr Rokosawa said foreign applicants applying through licence conversion must still pass the LTA driving test.
“The same standards apply to everyone.”
