New Delhi: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed significant changes to driving licence rules in India. The draft notification includes separate colour-coded driving licences for Indian and foreign citizens, stricter requirements for the online safe-driving assessment, and changes to the documents accepted as proof of age and address.
However, these are only proposals at present. The changes will take effect only after the government finalises and notifies the rules.
Different-Coloured Driving Licences for Indians and Foreigners
Under the proposal, driving licences issued to Indian citizens and foreign nationals may feature different colour schemes. The move is intended to make it easier for authorities to identify a licence holder’s nationality at a glance.
Safe-Driving Assessment Pass Mark May Rise to 75%
The ministry has also proposed tightening the online Safe-Driving Tutorial Assessment. Currently, applicants need to score 60% to pass the assessment. Under the draft proposal, the qualifying mark could be raised to 75%.
The proposed change aims to improve the assessment of applicants’ knowledge of road safety and responsible driving practices.
Affidavits May Face Restrictions as Proof of Age and Address
The draft proposes restricting the use of affidavits submitted before an executive magistrate or a notary as proof of age and address. The measure is intended to curb the misuse of documents and prevent licences from being obtained using fraudulent information.
The proposed list of address-proof documents includes Aadhaar, voter ID, e-ration cards, and electricity or gas bills issued within the preceding three months.
For proof of age, documents such as passports, birth certificates and school board mark sheets may be accepted. Aadhaar, passports and PAN cards are among the identity documents mentioned in the proposal.
Blood Group and Emergency Contact Details May Become Mandatory
Applicants may also be required to provide their blood group, mobile number and emergency contact details while applying for a driving licence.
The ministry has proposed waiving fees for certain services, including changes to a licence holder’s name, address and contact number. These services could be made available through online Aadhaar authentication.
Single Application Form for Multiple Services
The draft also proposes introducing a single application form for several driving licence-related services, including:
- Renewal of a driving licence
- Issuance of a duplicate licence
- Addition of a new vehicle category
- Changes to personal information
Authorities would be required to decide on online applications for changes to personal information within 15 days and provide reasons if an application is rejected.
The proposal also includes a provision under which an address-change application could be treated as approved if no decision is made within 30 days.
When Will the New Rules Come Into Effect?
The proposed changes are part of a draft notification issued by MoRTH. They are not yet confirmed as final rules. Applicants should continue following the existing requirements until the government formally notifies any changes.
