Starting June 1, 2024, there will be significant changes in obtaining a driving license in India as there will no longer be a need to take a driving test at the government’s Regional Transport Office (RTO). The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced new regulations aimed at simplifying the process and promoting cleaner energy.

Here are the most important points:

Driving tests at private establishments: Starting June 1, 2024, people will be able to take driving tests at private driver training centers instead of government RTOs. These institutions are authorized to conduct testing and issue license eligibility certificates.

Focus on the environment: The new rules aim to reduce pollution by phasing out about 900,000 older government vehicles and imposing stricter emissions standards for cars.

Stricter penalties: The fine for speeding continues to range between Rs 1,000 and Rs 2,000. However, minors caught driving will face a hefty fine of Rs 25,000. In addition, the vehicle owner’s registration will be revoked and the minor will only have the right to a driving license when he or she turns 25 years old.

Streamlined Application Process: The Department has simplified the documentation required for a new license. The type of vehicle (two or four wheels) determines the specific documents required. This reduces the need for physical examinations at RTOs.

New rules for private driving schools:

• Land Requirement: Driver training centers must have at least 1 acre of land (2 acres for four-wheel vehicle training).
• Testing Facility: Schools must provide access to an appropriate testing facility.
• Trainer Qualifications: Trainers must have a high school diploma (or equivalent), have at least 5 years of driving experience, and be familiar with biometrics and computer systems.

Training duration:

• Light Motor Vehicles (LMV): 29 hours spread over 4 weeks, divided into 8 hours of theory and 21 hours of practical training.
• Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMV): 38 hours spread over 6 weeks, divided into 8 hours of theory and 31 hours of practical training.
• These standards guarantee a high level of training and preparation for new drivers in private vocational schools.

License fees and charges

Issuance of Learner’s Permit (Form 3): ₹150.00
Exam fee for learner’s permit (or re-examination): ₹50.00
Driving Test (or Retest) Fee: ₹300.00
Driving license issuance: ₹200.00
Issuance of an international driving license: ₹1,000.00
Add another class of vehicle to the license: ₹500.00
Confirmation or renewal of dangerous goods vehicle permit
Driving license renewal: ₹200.00
Driving License Renewal (after expiry of grace period): ₹300.00 + additional fee of ₹1000 per year started (from expiry of grace period)
Issuance or renewal of a driving license for a driving school or establishment
Issuance of a duplicate driving license for a driving school/institution: ₹5,000.00
Appeal against orders of licensing authority (Rule 29): ₹500.00
Change of address or other details of driving license: ₹200.00

Application Process: The application process remains largely the same. You can apply online or offline at https://parivahan.gov.in/. Registration fees depend on the type of license. You need to visit the RTO to submit documents and prove your driving skills for driving license approval.