The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has introduced new guidelines for obtaining a driving license in India, effective from June 1, 2024. Here are the highlights:
Key Changes in Licensing Regulations
1. Private Driving Tests: Individuals will now have the option to take their driving tests at authorized private driving training centers instead of government Regional Transport Offices (RTOs). These centers will be empowered to conduct the tests and issue eligibility certificates.
2. Environmental Focus: The new regulations include measures to reduce pollution by phasing out approximately 900,000 old government vehicles and enforcing stricter emission standards for cars.
3. Stricter Penalties: While the fine for speeding remains between ₹1000 and ₹2000, the penalties for minors driving are significantly increased. A minor caught driving will face a ₹25,000 fine, the vehicle’s registration will be cancelled, and the minor will be barred from obtaining a license until they are 25 years old.
4. Simplified Application Process: The documentation required for a new license has been streamlined, with specific documents needed based on whether the vehicle is a two-wheeler or a four-wheeler. This change reduces the necessity for physical checkups at RTOs.
New Regulations for Private Driving Schools
- Land Requirement: Training centers must have at least 1 acre of land (2 acres for those training on four-wheelers).
- Testing Facilities: Schools are required to provide access to appropriate testing facilities.
- Trainer Qualifications: Trainers must have a high school diploma (or equivalent), at least 5 years of driving experience, and knowledge of biometrics and IT systems.
- Training Duration:
- Light Motor Vehicles (LMV): 29 hours over 4 weeks (8 hours of theory, 21 hours of practical training).
- Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMV): 38 hours over 6 weeks (8 hours of theory, 31 hours of practical training).
These measures ensure that private training schools maintain high educational standards for new drivers.
Licensing Fees and Charges
- Learner’s License (Form 3): ₹150
- Learner’s License Test Fee (or repeat test) : ₹50
- Driving Test Fee (or repeat test): ₹300
- Issue of Driving License: ₹200
- International Driving Permit: ₹1000
- Addition of Vehicle Class to License: ₹500
- Renewal of Driving License: ₹200
- Renewal after Grace Period: ₹300 + ₹1000 per year or part thereof beyond the grace period
- Driving Instruction School License or Establishment: ₹5000
- Appeal Against Licensing Authority Orders (Rule 29): ₹500
- Change of Address or Other Particulars in Driving License: ₹200
Application Process
The application process remains largely unchanged. Applicants can apply online or offline via [Parivahan](https://parivahan.gov.in/). The application fee varies based on the license type, and applicants will need to visit the RTO to submit documents and demonstrate their driving skills for license approval.