Kazakhstan plans to introduce artificial AI technologies into both the theoretical and practical components of driver’s license exams. At the same time, citizens will be allowed to take the exams an unlimited number of times without having to repeat training at driving schools.
The initiatives were presented by Zhaslan Madiyev, Minister of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry, together with representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
According to the proposed changes, augmented reality (AR) technologies will be used in the theoretical exam, while computer vision systems will monitor practical driving tests. These measures are intended to increase transparency and prevent the use of prohibited devices.
“These measures will make it possible to minimize the use of prohibited technical tools and to record violations,” the government press service said.
A pilot project is set to be launched at a branch of the National Testing Center under the Ministry of Science and Higher Education in Astana. The project will test technologies aimed at ensuring academic integrity, as well as conduct psychometric analysis of exam questions to verify their reliability and alignment with safe driving standards.
The new rules provide for the possibility of an unlimited number of exam attempts on a paid basis, with a mandatory interval of at least 10 calendar days between attempts. Currently, applicants are granted three free attempts, two with a one-day interval and a third after 30 days. After exhausting these attempts, retraining at a driving school is required.
According to the government, the new approach will make the process more accessible and reduce corruption risks by eliminating incentives to obtain licenses illegally.
Plans also include strengthening the information security of digital systems used in the licensing process by classifying them as critical information infrastructure. This would introduce stricter liability for unauthorized interference, including criminal penalties.
Administrative liability will also be introduced for individuals who assist in illegally obtaining driver’s licenses. Violations such as the use of micro earpieces, hidden cameras, and other transmitting devices will be punishable by fines and disqualification from taking the theoretical exam for up to one year.
The reforms will also affect driving schools. Licensing requirements are expected to be introduced, and their performance will be evaluated based on training quality and public feedback. Licenses may be revoked in cases of consistently poor standards.
As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, Senator Gennady Shipovskikh had earlier proposed restoring state oversight of private driving schools.
