The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced new guidelines for obtaining a driving license in India, effective from June 1, 2024. Under the new regulations, individuals can now take their driving tests at authorized private driving training centers instead of government Regional Transport Offices (RTOs). These centers will conduct the tests and issue certificates of eligibility for a driving license.

The changes aim to reduce pollution by gradually phasing out around 900,000 old government vehicles. Additionally, stricter car emission standards will be enforced. 

The fine for speeding remains unchanged, ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000. However, penalties for minors caught driving have increased significantly. Offenders will face a Rs 25,000 fine, their vehicle registration will be revoked, and they will be ineligible for a license until they turn 25.

The Ministry has also simplified the documentation required for obtaining a new license. The necessary documents now vary depending on whether the applicant is seeking a license for a two-wheeler or a four-wheeler, reducing the need for physical checkups at RTOs.

New Rules for Private Driving Schools

• Land Size: Driving schools need at least 1 acre of land for training (2 acres for four-wheelers).
• Testing Spot: Schools should have a good place for testing.
• Trainer Skills: Trainers must finish high school, have driven for 5 years, and know about biometrics and computers.

• Training Duration:

1. Light Motor Vehicles (LMV): 29 hours in 4 weeks, divided into 8 hours of theory and 21 hours of practical training.

2. Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMV): 38 hours in 6 weeks, divided into 8 hours of theory and 31 hours of practical training.

3. These regulations ensure a high standard of education and preparation for new drivers at private training schools.

Fees and Charges Associated with Obtaining a License

• Issue of learner’s license (Form 3) Rs 150/-

• Learner’s license test fee (or repeat test): Rs 50/-

• Driving test fee (or repeat test): Rs 300/-

• Issue of driving license: Rs 200/-

• Issue of International Driving Permit Rs 1000/-

• Addition of another vehicle class to license Rs 500/-

• Endorsement or renewal of authorization for hazardous goods vehicles

• Renewal of driving license: Rs 200/-

• Renewal of driving license (after grace period) Rs 300/- + 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/-

• Appeal against licensing authority orders (rule 29): Rs 500/-

• Change of address or other particulars in driving license Rs 200/-

Application Process

1. Apply online or offline at [Parivahan] (https://parivahan.gov.in/).
2. The application fee varies by license type.
3. Visit the RTO to submit documents and demonstrate your driving skills for approval.

These new measures are part of a broader effort to enhance road safety and environmental standards in India.