The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced a series of new regulations that will come into effect from June 1, 2024. The changes aim to reduce corruption, unnecessary delays and enhance road safety across the country.
Driving Tests Move to Private Schools
One of the most significant changes is the shift of driving tests from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) to certified private driving schools. This change is expected to make the process more convenient and less stressful for applicants.
Private Driving Schools to Conduct Tests
Under the new regulations, government-approved private driving schools will be authorised to conduct driving tests. To ensure quality, these schools will need to meet specific requirements, including having a minimum amount of land for training (1 acre for two-wheelers, 2 acres for four-wheelers), providing a suitable testing facility and employing qualified trainers with a high school diploma, at least 5 years of experience and knowledge of IT systems.
Increased Training Hours
The new rules also mandate a minimum duration for driving lessons. Applicants will need to complete 29 hours over 4 weeks for light motor vehicles (cars, scooters etc.) and 38 hours over 6 weeks for heavy motor vehicles (trucks, buses etc.). These lessons will be divided between theory (learning traffic rules) and practical training (behind-the-wheel practice).
Stricter Penalties for Traffic Violations
The new regulations come with a stronger focus on road safety. The penalty for driving without a valid licence can be as high as Rs 2,000. Minors caught driving will face a hefty fine of Rs 25,000 and their parents may also face legal action. Furthermore, the vehicle’s registration might be cancelled.
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