In response to the entry into force of amendments to the Rules of the Road (SDA), the Ministry of Internal Affairs has refreshed the theoretical exam tickets used for driving tests. This update, reported by Rossiyskaya Gazeta and attributed to the Ministry, signals a broad alignment of exam content with the revised SDA provisions and the needs of modern traffic safety instruction.
The revisions touched a number of test missions across multiple license categories. Specifically, 13 missions within categories A and B tickets—covering motorcycles, passenger cars, and light trucks—were updated to reflect the new rules. In addition, 18 more missions associated with categories C and D, which apply to heavier vehicles such as trucks and buses with gross weights above 3.5 tons, were fixed and clarified. The changes ensure that candidates encounter scenarios that mirror current regulatory expectations, reinforcing safe driving habits and compliance with road regulations as they study and prepare for exams.
A new segment within the traffic elements addresses pedestrian activity at turns and intersections. This section, described as a white moon signal in the exam material, informs test takers that pedestrians may travel through crosswalks when a turn is green. Alongside this addition, adjustments were made to questions concerning gearshift times in relation to movement controls and the signs that prohibit parking on even and odd days, ensuring that practical driving habits during varied time windows are considered. The updated tickets also incorporate explicit duties for drivers to adhere to work and rest regulations, aligning exam content with labor safety standards that govern driving shifts and fatigue management. Definitions used in the questions, notably those of “vehicle” and “route vehicle,” were clarified to minimize ambiguity and promote a consistent understanding across all test formats. These SDA adjustments became effective on March 1, 2023 and have continued to shape the way theoretical knowledge is assessed for new drivers. (Source attribution: Ministry of Internal Affairs)
There has long been speculation about the future number of driving schools in Russia following these regulatory changes. Industry observers anticipated an increase in driving schools within the next two years as new drivers entered the training market and as exam content evolved to reflect the updated SDA requirements. However, recent observations indicate a different trend, with a notable decline in driving school numbers by about 15 percent. This shift highlights the complex dynamics of driver education, including regulatory adaptation, market demand, and the availability of certified instructors. The evolving landscape underscores the need for aspiring drivers to seek accredited programs and for licensing authorities to maintain transparent pathways that ensure consistent, high-quality preparation for theoretical and practical testing. (Attribution: Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia)