The government has introduced strict measures to prevent incidents of minors driving in the country. Starting June 1, if a minor is caught driving, they can be fined up to Rs 25,000.
In addition to penalizing the minors, their parents can also be fined, and the vehicle’s registration certificate can be canceled.
The primary goal of these new rules is to improve road safety and stop minors from driving.
Changes in the Driving License Process
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has made several important updates to simplify the process of obtaining a driving license.
One major change is that applicants no longer need to visit the RTO for the driving test. Now, driving tests can be taken at recognized private driving schools.
If you pass, you can directly apply for your driving license. If you fail, you will need to go to the RTO for a retest.
Simplified Application and Fee Structure
The application process for a driving license remains mostly the same, but it now requires fewer documents.
This change makes the process easier, especially for those applying for a two-wheeler or four-wheeler license.
The new fee structure for driving licenses is as follows:
Learner’s Licence: Rs 200
Learner’s Licence Renewal: Rs 200
International Licence: Rs 1,000
Permanent License: Rs 200
Permanent License Renewal: Rs 200
Driver License Renewal Issue: Rs 200
New Guidelines for Private Driving Schools
Private driving schools must now meet new requirements to become accredited. These schools need to have at least one acre of land (two acres for four-wheelers)
and must provide testing facilities. Instructors must have at least a high school diploma and five years of driving experience.
For training courses:
1) Light motor vehicle training must include 29 hours (21 hours practical and 8 hours theory).
2) Medium and heavy vehicle training must include 38 hours of training.
Penalties for Issuing Licenses Without Proper Training
Private driving schools that issue or renew a license without providing proper training will be fined Rs 5,000.
This rule ensures that everyone who gets a driving license has received the necessary training.
