Driving training centres must have a minimum of 1 acre of land for light motor vehicle training and 2 acres for heavy motor vehicle training.

In India, the current lengthy process of acquiring a driver’s license is set to evolve significantly. Starting June 1, 2024, individuals will no longer be mandated to undergo a driving test at the Government Regional Transport Office (RTO). The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has introduced new regulations to streamline the procedure and encourage the adoption of cleaner energy solutions. These changes aim to simplify the licensing process, reducing the need for multiple agency visits and extensive form-filling.

Everything About New Driving License Rules

• Applicants can now take their driving tests at private driving training centres authorised by the government, instead of the RTOs. These centres will conduct tests and issue certificates for license eligibility.
• To reduce pollution, the Ministry plans to phase out approximately 900,000 old government vehicles and implement stricter car emission regulations.
• The fine for speeding remains between Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 2,000. However, a minor caught driving will face a hefty fine of Rs. 25,000. The vehicle owner’s registration card will be cancelled, and the minor will be ineligible for a license until they turn 25 years old.
• 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, reducing the need for physical checkups at RTOs.

New Rules for Private Driving Schools

• Driving training centres must have a minimum of 1 acre of land for light motor vehicle training and 2 acres for heavy motor vehicle training.
• Schools must provide access to suitable testing facilities.
• Trainers must have a high school diploma, at least 5 years of driving experience, and familiarity with biometrics and IT systems.

Training Duration:

• Light Motor Vehicles (LMV): 29 hours over 4 weeks, including 8 hours of theory and 21 hours of practical training.
• Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMV): 38 hours over 6 weeks, including 8 hours of theory and 31 hours of practical training.

Licensing-Related Fees and Charges:

• Issue of learner’s license: Rs. 150
• Learner’s license test fee: Rs. 50
• Driving test fee: Rs. 300
• Issue of driving license: Rs. 200
• Issue of International Driving Permit: Rs. 1,000
• Addition of another vehicle class to license: Rs. 500
• Renewal of driving license: ₹200 (after grace period: Rs. 300 + Rs. 1,000 per year)
• Duplicate license for driving instruction school: Rs. 5,000
• Appeal against licensing authority orders: Rs. 500
• Change of address or other particulars in driving license: Rs. 200

How to apply for Driving License 

• 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.