Driving instructors and learner drivers are raising concerns about the conduct of an examiner at the Gordon’s Bay Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC), alleging a pattern of unprofessionalism, rudeness and unfair testing practices.
According to multiple complainants, including long-time driving instructors, the issue has become a source of “fear” and stress for both learner drivers and those in the driving-school community.
One instructor with nearly seven years’ experience stated that the situation has become a nightmare over the past two years, causing significant frustration for those affected.
Complaints were made about a specific examiner, accused of being consistently unfriendly and irritable. Learner drivers, who are already nervous on test day, have reportedly been met with a lack of basic etiquette.
According to the driving instructor, the examiner speaks softly and then becomes angry, yelling at learners who ask her to repeat instructions.
The instructor alleged some of his clients were failed on baseless grounds, specifically for supposedly tyre treads that are “too smooth”.
“This occurred on two separate occasions, leading us to have our vehicle inspected by roadworthy centres and four different tyre dealerships, all of which confirmed the tyres were in good condition. These actions cause unnecessary expenses and losses for driving schools and learner drivers alike.”
A second driving instructor noted when this particular examiner is on duty the failure rate of learners is disproportionately high. “Many of these same learners pass their tests with a different examiner just days later.”
Another instructor with 18 years’ experience expressed fear for driving students, who “already pay a lot to get driving lessons just to get failed by this woman.” They also mentioned similar complaints about the examiner from a previous testing centre.
Asked for comment, Maxine Bezuidenhout, spokesperson for the City’s Traffic Services, confirmed officials had met with a complainant to discuss the allegations.
“The allegations are viewed in a serious light and will be raised with management and addressed,” she said.
Driving instructors are hopeful the issue will be corrected.
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