The Indian government has introduced revised rules for the process of obtaining a driving licence that aim to make the whole thing more efficient, transparent and safe. Following the new rules, applicants will not be required to take their driving tests at the overcrowded Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) anymore. Instead, they can take the driving test at a government-approved, certified driving school. The licensing authority will accept the “skill certificate” issued by the school as proof for issuing the final licence—thus eliminating delays at RTOs and making it easier for applicants.
Accredited Driving Schools: What’s Required
Quality and safety will be ensured since the government has allowed only certain driving schools conducting the tests, which meet the infrastructure and instructor standards, to do so. The schools for light vehicles (two-wheelers and cars) must possess a minimum area of one acre. For heavy vehicle training, a minimum area of two acres is needed for proper driving tracks to be set. Instructors employed at these driving schools must have at least five years of driving experience along with a minimum of Class 12 education. They should also be knowledgeable in road safety, traffic rules, and accident prevention.
Training Program: Theory + Practical for Safe Driving
The new system restricts the issuance of licences to those applicants who have completed the structured training: theoretical lessons and practical driving hours, under the new system. The training for light motor vehicles is usually for four weeks, with 21 hours of practical driving included in the training. The training sessions take place in different types of road conditions—city roads, highways, rural roads, and parking areas—so that learners can gain confidence in diverse situations.
In addition to the practical part of driving, the candidates also learn in the classroom the basic issues, like traffic signs, road rules, accident prevention, and first-aid. This combined way of training makes it possible that the drivers not only can manage a car but also are aware of the safety, responsible driving, and road consciousness aspects.
New, tougher penalties in the case of illegal or immature driving
The new laws set the bar higher in order to drive licence-less or inappropriately. The fine for driving without a valid license has been raised to ₹2,000. If a person less than 18 years old, i.e. a minor, is found driving, the fine will be upped to ₹25,000. Moreover, the authorities might revoke the vehicle’s registration, and the parents or the vehicle owner may be prosecuted if they allowed a minor to drive. The consequences of the law changes are meant to not only prevent but also actively promote responsible and safe driving throughout the country.
Advantages: Quicker Licences, Better Training & Safer Roads
Less waiting while processing and fewer delays — because the tests are transferred from congested RTOs to the exclusive schools.
- Better driver training — uniting theory and practical to create skilled, safety-conscious drivers rather than simply passing the criterion.
- Road safety improvement — because of stricter testing, trained drivers, and heavy fines on unlicensed and underage driving.
- More comfort — candidates will no longer have to go through the hardship of heavily loaded RTO offices for obtaining or renewal of their licenses.
Who is the Winning End
The whole of the above is particularly beneficial for:
- Newly licensed drivers, who otherwise might have to put up with very long lines for testing or a limited slot for the RTO test.
- Young customers and professionals who prefer a quick and not so stressful licensing process.
- Parents whose main concern is road safety, especially for young or new drivers.
- Those who want to get a licence with proper training, not just a short Cut.
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