MoRTH announces new rules for driver's license & RTO tests from 1 June

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced new rules and regulations effective from June 1, 2024 to streamline and simplify the process for licence seekers. The new regulations include a simplified documentation process and the option to take driving tests at private, government-authorised driving training centres instead of the Regional Transport Office (RTOs).

The new rules will also introduce stricter penalties for traffic violations. Fines for driving without a valid licence have increased, ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000. If a minor (under 18 years) is caught driving, their parents will face legal action and a fine of Rs 25,000. In addition, the vehicle's registration certificate will be revoked, and the minor will be ineligible for a licence until they turn 25.

More severe penalties for underage drivers will be enforced following an infamous accident case in Kalyani Nagar, Pune, where a 17-year-old driver, who was reportedly under the influence, fatally collided with a motorcycle while said to be driving a Porsche Taycan at a speed of 160kmph. Notably, this Porsche Taycan did not have a registration plate.

Key changes:

- Driving Tests at Private Institutions: Applicants can now take their driving tests at private, government-authorised driving training centres instead of the Regional Transport Office (RTOs). These centres will conduct tests and issue certificates for licence eligibility.

- Simplified Application Process: The documentation required for a new licence has been streamlined, with specific documents needed depending on the type of vehicle (two-wheeler or four-wheeler). This reduces the need for physical checkups at RTOs.

- Environmental Focus: To reduce pollution, the Ministry plans to phase out approximately 9,00,000 old government vehicles and implement stricter car emission regulations.

New rules for private driving schools include:

- Land Requirement: Centres must have a minimum of one acre for light motor vehicle training and two acres for heavy motor vehicle training.

- Testing Facility: Schools must provide access to suitable testing facilities.

- Trainer Qualifications: 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 four weeks, including eight hours of theory and 21 hours of practical training.

- Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMV): 38 hours over six weeks, including eight hours of theory and 31 hours of practical training.

With inputs from CNBC-TV18

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