New AFI testing aims to reduce mishaps

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Areca T. Wilson
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, ITALY --  In an effort to reduce vehicular accidents, the 31st Security Forces Squadron Pass and Registration office and the 31st Fighter Wing Safety office made changes to overhaul the AFI License program for newcomers at Aviano Air Base, Italy, effective Aug. 15, 2015.

"The new program aims to meet our [wing] commander's intent to help reduce vehicle mishaps and educate the base populace on the importance of driving safely," said Master Sgt. Tanisha Williams 31st FW Safety office ground safety manager. "Based on information from the past year, education has been identified as an integral piece to help reduce mishaps here."

As part of the education plan new members receive a local conditions and traffic safety briefing, then take 100-question proctored test. The exam contains two parts: the written portion, containing multiple choice and true/false questions, and a signs recognition portion. Each member must score a 90 percent or higher on both sections to receive a license. If a member fails they will be given the opportunity to re-test after 24 hours. The member must wait two weeks after the second failure and 60 days after the third failure.

"The study tools are available to each individual who wants to operate an AFI-plated vehicle," said Williams. "It's important for operators to understand that driving a vehicle in the United States, Italy, or any other country is different.

"Anyone who has been issued a driver's license knows the basic rules to operate a vehicle," Williams continued. "The basic knowledge of operation is there, but the application of that basic knowledge requires further assistance through traffic safety education and application."

To help ensure success, inbound Wyverns can review new study material at www.31fss.com/afi-testing-info/. To sign up for testing, call the Pass and Registration office at 632-4858.  For safety questions or concerns, call 632-4817.