New Driving Licence Rules: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has introduced new guidelines for obtaining a driving licence in India. Previously, driving licence tests were conducted solely at Regional Transport Offices (RTOs). However, from June 1, 2024, individuals will also be able to take their driving tests at privately operated driving training centres, which will be authorised to conduct tests and grant certificates for licence eligibility. This change aims to provide more options for aspiring drivers.
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Hefty Penalties for Minors
While fines for speeding will remain between Rs 1000 to Rs 2000, penalties for minors caught driving will increase significantly. A minor found driving will face a Rs 25,000 fine and the vehicle owner’s registration card will be cancelled. Additionally, the minor will be ineligible for a licence until reaching 25 years of age, further focussing on the seriousness of underage driving.
Streamlined Application Process
The Ministry has simplified the documentation required for obtaining a new licence, changing the requirements based on the type of vehicle. This change eliminates the need for extensive physical checkups at RTOs, making the process more efficient.
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Regulations for Private Driving Schools
New regulations ensure quality training at private driving schools. These schools must meet a minimum land requirement, provide suitable testing facilities and employ qualified trainers. Training durations for different vehicle types have been specified to ensure proper preparation for new drivers.
Environmental Measures
The guidelines also address environmental concerns, with plans to phase out approximately 900,000 older government vehicles and enforce stricter car emission regulations to reduce pollution levels.
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Application Process
The application process remains largely unchanged, with applicants able to apply online through the designated portal or offline. However, the application fee varies depending on the type of licence wanted. Applicants must still visit the RTO to submit necessary documents and demonstrate their driving skills for approval.
Licensing Fees and Charges
The new guidelines have also stated fees for various licensing related applications, which are mentioned below –
- Issue of learner’s licence – Rs 150
- Learner’s licence test fee (or repeat test) – Rs 50
- Driving test fee (or repeat test) – Rs 300
- Issue of driving licence – Rs 200
- Issue of International Driving Permit – Rs 1000
- Addition of another vehicle class to licence – Rs 500
- Renewal of driving licence – Rs 200
- Renewal of driving licence (after grace period) – Rs 300 + additional fee of Rs 1,000 per year
- Issue of duplicate licence for driving instruction school/establishment – Rs 5000
- Appeal against licensing authority orders – Rs 500
- Change of address or other particulars in driving licence – Rs 200
