Respite from offline test for a learner’s driving licence is far from reality. The online facilities are yet to be thrown open to the wannabe drivers.

The entire set-up for an online test is ready at the Patna district transport office but the date of its inauguration is yet to be finalised.

Sources in the transport department claimed that the inauguration would be done by its minister, Brishen Patel. But he could not provide any date so far for opening the facility.

The transport department initially had fixed January 15 to begin the online test for applicants.

Minister Patel was not available for comments but transport department principal secretary R.K. Mahajan claimed that online test would begin “soon”.

“The trial run for the online test for a learner’s licence has been held successfully since the past 15 days at the exam centre developed at the district transport office. I cannot comment on the exact date for its inauguration but it will be done very soon,” he said.

According to sources, six applicants can simultaneously sit for the test in one session. The applicants would be asked 10 multiple-choice questions based on traffic rules, driving signs and vehicle control among others. Each question would have to be answered in 30 seconds. Thus, the test would be of five minutes. An applicant would be required to answer minimum six questions to qualify.

Once the candidate qualifies, a certified copy of the learner’s licence having a unique number would be generated. The applicant would take its printout and can carry it for a maximum period of six months, during which he has to apply for permanent licence.

Learner’s licence applicants would not have to pay extra for the online test. The charges would be the same as now — Rs 70 for single category of vehicle (light motor vehicle or heavy motor vehicle) and Rs 140 for multiple categories.