Driving Tests at Private Centres, No More RTO Visits: New License Rules From June 1st

New Delhi: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has announced a significant overhaul of driving license regulations in India. These changes aim to improve driver training standards, reduce traffic pollution, and enforce stricter penalties for underage driving.

• Driving Tests at Private Facilities: Starting June 1, 2024, applicants can take driving tests at certified private training schools instead of solely at Regional Transport Offices (RTOs). This offers greater flexibility and potentially shorter wait times.
• Focus on Environment: To combat air pollution, the MoRTH plans to phase out around 9 lakh old government vehicles and implement stricter emission regulations for new cars.
• Hefty Fines for Minors Driving: Minors caught driving will face a substantial fine of ₹25,000 along with license ineligibility until age 25. Additionally, the vehicle owner’s registration will be cancelled.
• Simplified Application Process: The documentation required for obtaining a new license has been streamlined based on the vehicle type (two-wheeler or four-wheeler). This reduces unnecessary visits to RTOs.

The new rules establish minimum standards for private driving schools to ensure quality driver education. These include:

• Land Requirement: Driving schools must have a minimum land area (1 acre for two-wheelers, 2 acres for four-wheelers) to accommodate proper training facilities.
• Qualified Trainers: Trainers must hold a high school diploma (or equivalent), possess at least 5 years of driving experience, and be familiar with biometrics and IT systems used in testing.
• Standardized Training Duration: The mandated training duration varies based on the vehicle class:
  • Light Motor Vehicles (LMV): 29 hours in 4 weeks (8 hours theory, 21 hours practical)
  • Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMV): 38 hours in 6 weeks (8 hours theory, 31 hours practical)

The application process for obtaining a driving license remains similar, with online and offline options available at https://parivahan.gov.in/. Application fees and license issuance charges see minimal revisions.

The new regulations are expected to enhance road safety by ensuring better-trained drivers. The stricter penalties for underage driving and the focus on phasing out polluting vehicles should contribute to a cleaner and safer transportation environment in India.