World · India Bureau
India mulls stricter driving licence norms with new format, higher pass marks
India's transport ministry has proposed sweeping changes to driving licence regulations, including tougher tests for learner drivers and revised licence formats. The draft rules also outline fee waivers for digital services and streamlined application timelines.
LSN India ·
The proposed amendments to driving licence rules represent a significant overhaul of India's licensing framework, aimed at improving road safety standards across the country. Among the key provisions, the draft rules suggest raising the minimum pass mark for learner drivers, tightening competency requirements for new motorists entering Indian roads.
The revision also encompasses structural changes to licence formats and colour coding systems, with officials indicating that different vehicle categories may be denoted through enhanced visual differentiation. These modifications are intended to make licences more standardized and easier to verify for enforcement purposes.
Additional measures include fee concessions for citizens opting for online application and renewal services, addressing concerns about digital accessibility and reducing administrative burden. The draft also proposes modifications to documentation requirements and shortened processing timelines for licence issuance, potentially expediting the application process for eligible applicants.
The transport ministry is expected to invite public feedback on the draft rules before finalizing the amendments. Implementation of these changes could substantially impact the estimated millions of Indians who apply for driving licences annually, establishing more rigorous safety protocols across the nation's road transportation system.