He noted that the current system of driver training has its shortcomings. Many students obtain driver's licenses without possessing real skills, which leads to accidents on the roads.
The deputy head of the office, Boobek Salimzhanov, reported that in 2024, there were 7,423 recorded traffic accidents, resulting in the deaths of 514 people. Meanwhile, in the first nine months of 2025, there were 9,078 traffic accidents, claiming the lives of 636 individuals.
“Currently, training lasts only 2.5 months and includes 12 lessons. We plan to implement a new program that will allow students to gain knowledge about vehicle maintenance. Many don’t even know how to change tires, which is unacceptable. We want to extend the training duration to 14 months so that drivers are aware of all aspects of safety. We must not forget about behavior on the road: aggression and conflicts have become common. Reforms take time, but the situation has already improved compared to 10-15 years ago when a unified test and training program were introduced. However, this is not enough, and traffic accidents continue to rise,” emphasized Boobek Salimzhanov.
When asked about the future of private driving schools, Tumanbaev replied that they would continue their operations but would work under the status of state institutions.
“Don’t worry, employees will not be left without jobs. Corruption in these institutions will be eradicated. I urge the management of private driving schools not to create panic. Because of you, citizens who cannot drive are obtaining licenses, which leads to accidents. The program for changes is already prepared, and we will soon present it to the public. Training will remain at the same rates, ensuring the salaries of employees. The state does not seek to make a profit; the main goal is road safety,” noted Tumanbaev.
He also added that students currently undergoing courses in private driving schools who fail to pass the exams will have to undergo training under the new program.
Kanaybek Tumanbaev announced that starting in January 2026, new samples of driver's licenses will be issued. Drivers with indefinite licenses will be able to exchange them for new ones for free, while others are not required to change their licenses until they expire.
We remind you that in October, the government imposed a moratorium on licensing private driving schools until the end of 2027.
In early November, Tumanbaev announced plans to close all private driving schools.
