Issues related to driver training often spark debates and dissatisfaction, but over time they become evident. The reform initiated by the President of Kyrgyzstan, Sadyr Japarov, has shifted the process of obtaining driver's licenses from a matter of convenience to one of public safety. His approach emphasizes that driving a car is not just a formality, but a serious responsibility that affects people's lives.
Despite the existence of driving schools and the conduct of exams, the quality of training left much to be desired. Corruption and the practice of purchasing licenses made the roads dangerous, as unqualified individuals took to driving without the necessary knowledge and skills.
With the introduction of stricter exams, the system revealed its shortcomings: many candidates were unable to demonstrate basic knowledge. This confirmed the need for reforms, where the issue was not with strict requirements, but with the actual training of drivers.
The president emphasized that a driver is responsible for the safety of not only themselves but also those around them. Therefore, comprehensive training, objective exams, and fair access to driving are not artificial barriers, but steps towards fostering a culture of responsibility on the roads.
The reform also affected the process of renewing driver's licenses, which has become more secure against forgery and complies with international standards. This is aimed at increasing transparency and trust in government documents.
Although the new requirements may demand more time and resources for training, the cost of the previous approach is immeasurable — it is human lives.
The problems faced by Kyrgyzstan are also recognized in countries with developed transport systems. In the USA, a large-scale reform of commercial driver training has begun in response to identified violations in truck driver training.
Inspections revealed the existence of so-called "CDL factories," where certificates were issued without proper training. Some educational institutions lacked the necessary equipment and qualified instructors, allowing licenses to be obtained without real training.
The formal conduct of exams also created additional risks. In several states, oversight of private examiners proved insufficient, leading to commercial licenses being obtained by drivers without practical skills in operating heavy vehicles.
In response to these challenges, unscrupulous training centers have been shut down, oversight of examination procedures has been strengthened, and regular checks on the roads have been ensured. Requirements for carriers and training standards have been tightened, and strict control over drivers' work and rest schedules has been introduced, as fatigue affects road safety.
Particular attention is paid to drivers' ability to understand road instructions and safety requirements, which is directly related to accident prevention and saving lives.
While the scale of reforms in Kyrgyzstan and the USA differs, the essence of the changes is the same: road safety cannot be based on formalities.
States are increasingly refusing to accept fictitious training and unprepared drivers. The key requirement is accountability, and quality training is the foundation of road safety.
New measures rarely receive approval at the time of implementation, as people worry about difficult exams and increased costs. However, global experience shows that order on the roads begins with quality driver training and their level of responsibility.
Over time, society begins to perceive reforms not as restrictions, but as protection. Everyone who takes to the road should have confidence that prepared and responsible drivers are nearby.
The era of "bought a license — drove" is fading into the past, giving way to a culture of training and respect for life. In this context, the chosen course is not a temporary measure, but a testament to the maturity of society, where human safety becomes a priority and human life the highest value.
