Learner drivers are flunking a tough new practical driving test, with fewer than half now making it through.



The restricted test was changed late last month to make it more of a challenge. With nearly 1500 tests completed since then, the overall pass rate has dropped sharply from about 80 per cent under the old system to 39 per cent.



The New Zealand Transport Agency issued the figures today, with chief executive Geoff Dangerfield making no apology for the plummeting pass rate.



Such a drop was expected in the initial stages, though no specific targets had been set, he said.



"The new test is much more challenging, and a much higher standard of driving is needed to pass. That is the whole point, and we make no apologies for that.



"The new test demands more practice and more preparation, and it will take some time for that message to filter through."



There was a similar initial drop in pass rates from 77 per cent to 40 per cent when computerised theory testing for learner driver licence tests was introduced in November 2009. The current pass rate is 63 per cent.



NZTA says it will waive the fee for cancelling or rescheduling tests for drivers who have already booked appointments to sit the new test, if they decide they need more time to prepare, so long as two days' notice is given.



Anyone failing the new test will still need to pay another $86.60 fee to sit it again.



Institute of Driver Trainers president Wayne Young said instructors were now training learner drivers to a much higher level than before.



"I wouldn't like to see them lower the standard. It would defeat the aim, which is to get more experienced drivers on the road."



Triple A Driving School managing director Sarah McPhee said the test was a lot more robust. "A lot of people don't know what's involved and, if they go in blindly and without some instruction, they won't pass."



Crash statistics show that more than 700 teenagers died in road crashes in the past decade, and New Zealand has the highest road death rate in the OECD for 16 and 17-year-olds.



Mr Dangerfield said young drivers who completed 120 hours of supervised practice on their learner licence had a solo-driving crash rate 40 per cent lower than those who did only 50 hours.



"It's important that we remember what this new test is all about reducing needless deaths and injuries on our roads, improving the standards of young and novice drivers and encouraging them to take the time to develop their skills."



Road crashes were the single biggest killer of teenagers in New Zealand. "That's a situation no-one should accept, and New Zealanders are looking for decisive action to reduce this needless waste of young life and young potential."



Transport Minister Gerry Brownlee said the test had deliberately been made tougher, so the results were unsurprising. "I would want to see some months' more results before commenting on whether the test requires any change."



Automobile Association motoring affairs general manager Mike Noon said it was likely that most of those who failed the test had not completed 120 hours of practice.



Learner drivers would have to make sure they were fully prepared for the new test.

The new restricted driver licence test has two stages and takes about an hour to complete.

It includes:



A pre-drive vehicle safety test.



A 45-minute practical driving test.



The drive starts with simple tasks in an easy environment.



Stage 2 takes 35 minutes and includes more complex tasks in heavier traffic.



To pass the new test, an applicant must show safe decision-making, observance of road rules and satisfactory car-handling skills throughout the test.



The driver can receive an immediate fail for illegal and/or unsafe behaviour.



Critical errors including driving too slowly, driving too fast, failing to look, and failing to signal are recorded by the testing officer.