Driving tests no longer mandatory at RTO from June 1; Ministry unveils driver’s licence rules

Effective June 1, 2024, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in India has introduced new regulations aimed at simplifying the process of obtaining a driver’s licence. Under these regulations, applicants now have the option to take their driving tests at privately operated driving training centres, marking a departure from the traditional practice of solely relying on government-operated Regional Transport Offices (RTOs).

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This significant change means that individuals seeking a driver’s licence can opt for authorised private driving training centres for their testing procedures. These centres will be granted the authority to conduct tests and issue certificates, thereby streamlining the licensing process.

Moreover, the convenience extends to the application process itself. Prospective drivers can choose to apply for a driver’s licence either online through the official website (https://parivahan.gov.in/) or by visiting an RTO in person. The application fee depends upon the type of licence being sought. However, regardless of the chosen application method, applicants will still need to visit the RTO to submit requisite documents and demonstrate their driving skills for approval.

Things you need to know:

Licensing-related fees and charges:

– Learner’s licence (Form 3): INR 150

– Learner’s licence test (or repeat test): INR 50

– Driving test (or repeat test): INR 300

– Driving licence issue: INR 200

– International driving permit: INR 1,000

– Addition of another vehicle class to licence: INR 500

Renewal of hazardous goods vehicle authorisation:

– Driving licence renewal: INR 200

– Late renewal (after grace period): INR 300 + INR 1,000 per year or part thereof from the expiration of the grace period

Driving instruction school licence:

– Issue/Renewal: INR 5,000

– Duplicate licence: INR 5,000

Appeals and changes:

– Appeal against licensing authority orders: INR 500

– Change of address or other particulars in driving licence: INR 200

Stricter penalties:

– Speeding fines: The fine for speeding remains between INR 1,000 and INR 2,000.

– Minors driving: A minor caught driving will face a fine of INR 25,000. Additionally, the vehicle owner’s registration card will be cancelled, and the minor will be ineligible for a licence until they turn 25, as per the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

Simplified application process:

– Streamlined documentation: The Ministry has reduced the required documentation for new licences, varying by whether you’re applying for a two-wheeler or four-wheeler licence. This minimises the need for physical checkups at RTOs.

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New rules for private driving schools:

– Land Requirement: Training centres must have at least 1 acre of land (2 acres for four-wheeler training).

– Testing facility: Schools must have access to an appropriate testing facility.

– Trainer qualifications: Trainers must have a high school diploma (or equivalent), a minimum of 5 years of driving experience, and be knowledgeable in biometrics and IT systems.

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Training duration:

– Light Motor Vehicles (LMV): 29 hours over 4 weeks (8 hours of theory and 21 hours of practical training).

– Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMV): 38 hours over 6 weeks (8 hours of theory and 31 hours of practical training).

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