The Fiji Driving Instructors Association has recently advocated for amendments to the current traffic laws, allowing provisional license holders the freedom to drive unaccompanied during specified hours. The association’s National President, Deo Narayan, emphasized that provisional drivers, who have successfully passed their driving tests, should not be subject to the same restrictions as learners, which currently compel them to be accompanied by a fully licensed driver at all times.
Mr. Narayan proposed that provisional license holders be permitted to drive alone between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m. every day, and be granted the autonomy to drive at any time during emergencies. He argued that the current regulations infringe upon the constitutional rights of these drivers, who he believes should enjoy similar driving privileges as those with full licenses. Mr. Narayan contends that the existing system places unnecessary constraints on drivers who have already demonstrated their capability by passing driving exams.
The association has called upon the Land Transport Authority and government officials to reconsider and amend the law. Such changes, according to Mr. Narayan, would not only grant more freedom to provisional drivers but would also alleviate pressures on families and enhance workforce mobility.
This push for change comes amidst wider legislative discussions in Fiji regarding road safety and driver regulations. The Land Transport Amendment Bill 2025, which seeks to toughen requirements for obtaining full licenses and introduce a two-tier system for provisional licenses, is a part of broader efforts to improve road safety. Recent reports have highlighted the high number of traffic violations and road accidents involving provisional drivers, prompting legislative actions to foster safer road environments.
The discussion around the revision of provisional driving laws reflects a balancing act between facilitating driving independence for new drivers and ensuring road safety. While Mr. Narayan’s suggestions aim to empower drivers with proven competence, the government’s current legislative focus on reducing traffic incidences and accidents through a stricter regulatory framework indicates a cautious approach toward road safety. Nonetheless, there is a hopeful outlook that these initiatives, whether via greater freedom or tighter regulations, can coexist to foster safer driving practices across Fiji’s roads.
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