India- Starting June 1, 2024, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has introduced new guidelines for obtaining a driving license in India. Individuals can now take their driving tests at authorized private driving training centres instead of government Regional Transport Offices (RTOs). These centres will conduct the tests and issue certificates for license eligibility.

The new rules aim to reduce pollution by phasing out around 900,000 old government vehicles and enforcing stricter emission standards. The fine for speeding remains between Rs 1,000 and Rs 2,000, but minors caught driving will face a penalty of Rs 25,000, revocation of vehicle registration, and ineligibility for a license until age 25.

Documentation for a new license has been streamlined, depending on whether it's for a two-wheeler or four-wheeler, reducing the need for physical checkups at RTOs.

New Rules for Private Driving Schools

• Land Requirement: Minimum of 1 acre for training centres (2 acres for four-wheeler training).
• Testing Facility: 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 knowledge of biometrics and IT systems.
• Training Duration:
  • Light Motor Vehicles (LMV): 29 hours in 4 weeks (8 hours theory, 21 hours practical).
  • Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMV): 38 hours in 6 weeks (8 hours theory, 31 hours practical).

These regulations aim to ensure high standards of education and preparation for new drivers at private training schools.

Licensing-Related 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 the 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 Parivahan. 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.