Kazakhstan plans to allow driving theory tests to be taken online

Tengrinews.kz — Kazakhstan is considering allowing the theoretical driving license exam to be taken remotely. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development Zhaslan Madiyev said this in response to a parliamentary inquiry.
Online theory exam
Zhaslan Madiyev said that applicants can currently book an exam through the Public Service Center mobile app. However, authorities are working on introducing registration through eGov and eGov Mobile. These measures are intended to make booking more accessible, improve transparency in the allocation of available slots, and reduce the risk of intermediaries being involved.
The possibility of taking the theoretical exam online is also being considered.

“As part of the ongoing work to introduce remote theoretical exams using artificial intelligence and proctoring technologies, advance registration will only be required for those who choose to take the theory exam in person. The remote format would allow applicants to take the exam at a convenient time without restrictions related to the number of physical examination seats,” the minister said.

According to him, if the system is introduced, advance booking will only be required for in-person theory exams.
Specialized public service centers will not extend working hours?
Earlier, a Kurultai deputy proposed extending the working hours of specialized public service centers until 8 p.m. However, in response to the parliamentary inquiry, the authorities said they considered the measure impractical.
The ministry explained that extending working hours would require hiring more staff or introducing shift work. At present, registration for the theory exam closes at 5:30 p.m., while examination procedures finish at 7:30 p.m.
How control over driving schools will be tightened
From 2027, oversight of driving schools is expected to be strengthened by switching to a permit-based system. In particular, authorities will inspect the condition of training vehicles, facilities and the qualifications of instructors.
The Interior Ministry also requires additional checks into some driving schools where more than 500 vehicles are registered and around 15,000 students have graduated.
Authorities are also proposing to automate checks of vehicle inspections and insurance, vehicle ownership or rental documents, employment relationships and instructor qualifications. In addition, they plan to consider suspending the registration of new training groups if violations are identified at a driving school.
Earlier, we reported that Kazakhstanis had complained about long waits for driving license exams. Available slots for theory and practical exams were often unavailable for months.
The main reasons for the queues cited by Government for Citizens include high demand, seasonal increases in applications, uneven workloads across regions, a shortage of driving test tracks and repeat bookings by applicants who failed the exam on their first attempt.