New driving licence rules in India: Skip RTO tests, vehicle phase-out, and more from June 1

New regulations for acquiring an Indian driver's licence will be put into effect by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways on June 1 of 2024.

Here are thekeychanges in the rules beginning June 1:

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• Individuals can now take driving exams at private driving instruction institutions rather than governmentRTOsbeginning June 1, 2024. These institutions will be permitted to administer examinations and issue certificates of licence eligibility.
• The new restrictions would tightencarsemission regulations and phase out almost 900,000 government carsin an efforttocut pollution.
• The speeding fine continues to be between ₹1000 and ₹2000. Minors found driving will risk a ₹25,000 fine. The minor will not be able to obtain a licence until they are 25 years old, and the vehicle owner's registration card will also be cancelled.
• The Ministry has simplified the documentation necessary for a newlicence. The specific documents required vary depending on the kind of vehicle (two-wheeler or four-wheeler). This minimises the requirement for physical examinations at RTOs.

Rules forprivate driving schools

• Driving schools must contain at least 1 acre of ground (2 acres for four-wheeler training).
• Schools must provide students with access to appropriate testing facilities.
• Trainers must have a high school education (or equivalent), at least 5 years of driving experience, and an understanding of biometrics and information technology systems.
• Light Motor Vehicles (LMV): 29 hours in 4 weeks, consisting of 21 hours of hands-on instruction and 8 hours of theory.
• Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMV): 31 hours of practical training and 8 hours of theoretical spread over 6 weeks.
• These rules guarantee that new drivers receive a high-quality education and preparation at private training institutions.

Application process

The application procedure is mostly unchanged. You can apply online or offline at https://parivahan.gov.in/. Application fees vary based on the kind of licence. For your licence to be approved, you must visit the RTO to submit documentation and demonstrate your driving skills.

(With inputs from agencies)