New rule for driving licence evokes mixed reactions
The new rule that has made eye tests done at an authorised optical shop mandatory comes into effect from October 1, the ROP has said
The new rule that has made eye tests done at an authorised optical shop mandatory to obtain new or renew a driving licence has evoked mixed reactions from people across all sections of society. The rule comes into effect from October 1.
The Directorate General of Traffic at the ROP has announced that the eye test can be done at any authorised optical shop across any governorate in the sultanate.
The rest of the procedures for the ROP to issue new or renew driving licences will remain the same at the respective traffic departments, an official said.
Citizens and expats took to various social media platforms to express their views and apprehensions regarding the rule. Commenting on ROP’s Twitter handle, Hamood al Raqadi wrote, “I hope that the eye test will be conducted in the health centres under the Ministry of Health of Oman.”
Adding to Raqadi's comment, another social media user wrote that the Ministry of Health centres are always crowded. Some others commented on the fact that the new rule did not specify a fee to conduct the test. “I wish the ROP determines a fee to conduct the eye test in these optical shops.”
There were others who hailed the decision and said the authorities should monitor the optical shops to ensure transparency, while one social media user complained about the need to visit two places to get a driving licence. “I think the earlier rule was better as I had to go to just one place.”
Speaking to Muscat Daily, Talal al Dahli, a private sector employee, said, “The decision of the ROP shows how the authorities are making efforts to facilitate licence procedures and get the cooperation of the private sector in reducing long waiting periods.”
Ali al Shayadi, a teacher, and Nasser al Hosani, a businessman, said the decision is a positive one. It will reduce congestion in police stations and will save time for people. Some other ministries, such as the Ministry of Manpower, too have facilitated procedures through Sanad offices.