Following the announcement by Rwanda National Police (RNP) Department of Testing and Licensing that driving tests using automatic transmission vehicles will begin on Monday, September 9, here are four key elements you need to know.

More sites to offer automated driving license tests in future

More locations across Rwanda will offer automated driving tests, depending on the resources available at driving schools. According to RNP spokesperson Boniface Rutikanga, the first phase of this rollout will be at four sites: Busanza, Gahanga (Kicukiro District), Nyarugenge, and in Musanze District.

"These sites were selected because they are equipped and ready to launch,” Rutikanga told The New Times. "We had discussions with operators and decided to begin with these locations. As other sites become equipped, we will gradually expand the programme.”

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Rutikanga acknowledged the high public demand for the service.

"The legal framework is already in place, but not all operators were ready in terms of resources. However, we’re starting with the available sites to address the backlog of individuals awaiting this service,” he said.

Additionally, operators are in various stages of acquiring automatic transmission vehicles for the tests. Rutikanga noted that as new sites become available, the public will be informed.

Registration process and exams remain unchanged

According to Rutikanga the registration process will not change. Applicants can register for their preferred test dates and locations through Irembo platform.

The exams will slightly change with candidates opting for the automatic transmission test not being required to demonstrate manual gear-shifting or perform the 'démarrage en côte' (hill start) drills

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Eligibility

Contrary to some reports, applicants are not required to prove three months of driving school attendance.

"For now, the requirements are simply that applicants must be 18 years or older and possess a provisional driving license,” Rutikanga clarified.

However, a draft law under discussion may, later, introduce new regulations, including mandatory driving school attendance, but this has not yet been finalized.

Rates largely unchanged

Jean Pierre Ntakirutimana, a driving instructor at the Gahanga site, said that they are ready to start and confirmed that there will be no changes in pricing for the automated driving tests.

As it stands, registration through Irembo costs Rwf 10,000, and candidates are required to pay an additional Rwf50,000 on the day of the test.

The Busanza site has a slight difference in pricing, with a total cost of Rwf55,000, which includes registration and vehicle rental.

Therese Murorunkwere, a 42-year-old resident of Gasabo District, said she was excited about the new development.

"I’ve tried the manual driving test three times and failed. I ended up hiring a driver, which has been an extra expense. Now that I can take the test with an automatic car, I’m thrilled to finally get my license,” she said.

Murorunkwere who pays her driver Rwf250,000 per month, expressed relief at the prospect of driving herself. "It’s been a burden, especially since I can drive. I can’t wait to register and get my license.”