The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has introduced new guidelines for obtaining a driving license in India. Staring from June 1, 2024, individuals will have the option to undergo driving tests at private driving training centers instead of government RTOs. These authorized institutions will be responsible for conducting tests and issuing certificates to license eligibility.
The new regulations are designed to tackle pollution by gradually phasing out approximately 900,000 old government vehicles and enforcing stricter car emission standards. While the fine for speeding remains at Rs 1000 to Rs 2000, minors caught driving will now face a hefty penalty of Rs 25,000. Moreover, their vehicle registration will be revoked, and they will be ineligible for a license until reaching the age of 25.
The Ministry has streamlined the documentation required for a new license. The type of vehicle (two-wheeler or four-wheeler) determines the specific documents needed. This reduces the need for physical checkups at RTOs.
New Rules for Private Driving Schools:
Land Requirement: Driving training centres must have a minimum of 1 acre of land (2 acres for four-wheeler training).
Testing Facility: Schools must provide access to a suitable testing facility.
Trainer Qualifications: Trainers must have a high school diploma (or equivalent), at least 5 years of driving experience, and be familiar with biometrics and IT systems.
Training Duration:
Light Motor Vehicles (LMV): 29 hours in 4 weeks, divided into 8 hours of theory and 21 hours of practical training.
Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMV): 38 hours in 6 weeks, divided into 8 hours of theory and 31 hours of practical training.
These regulations ensure a high standard of education and preparation for new drivers at private training schools.
Licensing-related fees and charges
Issue of learner’s license (Form 3)Rs 150.00
Learner’s license test fee (or repeat test): Rs 50.00
Driving test fee (or repeat test): Rs 300.00
Issue of driving license: Rs 200.00
Issue of International Driving Permit Rs 1000.00
Addition of another vehicle class to license Rs 500.00
Endorsement or renewal of authorization for hazardous goods vehicles
Renewal of driving license: Rs 200.00
Renewal of driving license (after grace period) Rs 300.00 + additional fee of Rs 1,000 per year or part thereof (from the expiration of the grace period)
Issue or renewal of license for driving instruction school or establishment
Issue of duplicate license for driving instruction school/establishment: Rs 5000.00
Appeal against licensing authority orders (rule 29): Rs 500.00
Change of address or other particulars in driving license Rs 200.00
Application Process: The application process remains largely the same. You can apply online or offline at https://parivahan.gov.in/. The application fee depends on the license type. You will need to visit the RTO to submit documents and demonstrate your driving skills for license approval.