DC Says: Lacking the proper training

5) These lacked the proper training when they were in the phase of learning how to drive. And they probably paid a “fee” to obtain a driving license. These are also known as the Kopi-O drivers (KOD).

Okay, let’s be completely honest… back then, when I was taking classes to sit for my driving license, it was very widespread. This is something called Kopi-O license. You know the drill. If you want a guaranteed passing score for the test, you give a little “extra” and… voila… despite a few mistakes here and there… your brand new license will be waiting for you.

Now, I am not saying this is still practiced today.

My point is I know many who are out there as KODs. Also, it must be said that some are very capable drivers, despite “paying” for their license. Yes, I can probably make a long list of friends who have opted for this way. It is considerably more trouble-free.

The problem may not arise immediately, but for those who really needed the training and to be rated properly, in order to drive safely on the road… it will always be a problem.

The real question is, how many have perished or caused a fatal accident due to their oversight on this way of procuring a driving license?

But I digress. The KODs are largely split into two groups. The first being the ones who were lucky enough to consistently improve to be very capable drivers and the second being the ones who did not improve, because they can’t handle a car – full stop.

The first group is obviously not the issue. The second group continues to cause havoc on the road till this day. The fact remains that not all are able to handle a car properly. These will need excessive training for them to stand a chance to be a competent driver. But since they opted for the easy way out, their habits, knowledge and capabilities behind the wheel remains stunted.

In the absence of the quick version of getting a passing mark during the test, these folks would have to take the test multiple times till they give up or get good enough to make the basic standard of getting behind the wheel.

The problem is the longer they are on the road, the less chance they have of ever improving. And it’s a matter of time before something happens.

My advice is for all to take the driving test, properly and do it above board.