New Driving License Rules, training: Here is what has changed

The government has announced a significant change to the driving license rules, effective from June 1, 2024. A notification has been issued to inform the public of this update.

Under the new rules, obtaining a driving license will no longer require a driving test at the Government Regional Transport Office (RTO). Instead, private institutions are now authorized to conduct the tests and issue certificates. This change aims to streamline the process and make it more accessible to applicants.

Effective from June 1, 2024, private institutions will now be authorized to conduct driving tests and issue certificates, eliminating the need for applicants to visit Regional Transport Offices (RTOs).

The notification, issued recently, aims to introduce more stringent regulations and ensure higher standards for both light and heavy vehicle drivers. Key highlights of the new driving license rules include:

Privatization of Driving Tests

• Private driving training centers will be authorized to conduct tests and issue certificates.
• This move is expected to reduce the burden on RTOs and improve efficiency.

Infrastructure Requirements for Private Centers

• Minimum land requirement of 1 acre for light vehicle training centers.
• Additional 2 acres of land required for centers offering training for four-wheelers.
• Appropriate testing facilities must be available.

Trainer Qualifications

• Trainers must hold a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 5 years of driving experience is mandatory.
• Knowledge of biometrics and information technology systems is essential.

Training Duration

Environmental Focus:

• Phasing out of over 900,000 old vehicles to reduce emissions.
• Stricter regulations on vehicle emissions.

"The new rules aim to ensure that private driving training centers maintain high standards for drivers of both light and heavy vehicles," stated a government official. "By involving private institutions, we hope to streamline the process and improve the overall quality of driver training."