Community Policing Officer 

Driving is a privilege that comes with great responsibility. Many new car owners mistakenly believe that simply owning a vehicle gives them the right to drive it immediately. However, the law is clear: No person may operate a motor vehicle on a public road without the necessary authorisation and certification. It is important for learner drivers to take cognisance of the legal provisions, risks, and the importance of voluntary compliance in this respect. 

According to the Road Traffic and Transport Act, 1999 (Act No. 22 of 1999) and the Road Traffic and Transport Regulations, no person is permitted to drive a motor vehicle on a public road unless they hold a valid learner’s licence or driver’s licence. A learner’s licence is granted only after successfully passing a theory test that assesses knowledge of road signs, rules and regulations. 

Furthermore, under Regulation 102 of the Road Traffic and Transport Regulations, a learner driver must always be accompanied by a fully licensed driver in the vehicle while operating it. Failure to adhere to these regulations constitutes an offence and may result in a fine of N$1000 or disqualification from obtaining a full driver’s licence. 

It is key to allude to the fact that not adhering to road safety laws poses serious risks, not only to the learner driver but also to other road users. Inexperienced and untrained drivers are more likely to make errors that could lead to crashes, injuries, or fatalities. 

In the same vein, driving without a valid learner’s or driver’s licence is an offence that may result in prosecution, fines, or even imprisonment. Most insurance policies do not cover crashes caused by unlicensed drivers, leaving individuals financially liable for damages. 

A driver who is not properly trained may not know how to react in emergency situations, increasing risks for pedestrians and other motorists. 

The Windhoek City Police Service urges all aspiring drivers and vehicle owners to comply with the law voluntarily. 

Road safety is a collective responsibility, and responsible driving begins with proper training, legal certification, and adherence to traffic regulations. Before getting behind the wheel, ensure you have obtained a valid learner’s licence, enrol in a reputable driving school to enhance your driving skills and road knowledge and always be accompanied by a fully licensed driver when practising. One may only drive independently once they have successfully obtained a driver’s licence. 

Ultimately, road safety is not just about compliance with the law; it’s about protecting lives, including your own. Therefore, it is important for drivers to comply with the law and assist law enforcement in their quest to make our roads safer.