New Driving Licence Norms Proposed: Tutorial Pass Mark May Rise to 75%

New Delhi – The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has issued a draft notification proposing significant revisions to driving licence norms across India. A key amendment includes a potential increase in the pass mark for driving tutorials to 75% from the current 69%. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of driver training and improve road safety nationwide.

The proposed regulations outline a comprehensive framework for the accreditation and auditing of driving schools, positioning them as central to the issuance and renewal of driving licences. Under the new draft, specific licence-related services, such as obtaining a duplicate driving licence, changing the address on a licence, or securing an international driving permit, may become free of charge if applicants avail them through accredited driving schools. These schools would also be authorized to issue certificates of training, which could potentially exempt individuals from appearing for a driving test at a Regional Transport Office (RTO) when applying for a new licence.

Officials within MoRTH stated that the primary objective behind these revisions is to foster a system that produces more competent and responsible drivers, thereby contributing to a reduction in road accidents. The existing automated driving test requires a minimum score of 69% to pass. The proposed increase to 75% signifies a more stringent evaluation standard for learners seeking to obtain a driving licence, aiming to ensure higher proficiency before a licence is granted.

Key aspects of the draft notification include:

  • Increased Pass Mark: The proposed pass mark for the driving tutorial assessment is 75%, an increase from the current 69% for automated driving tests.
  • Accredited Training Centers: New standards for driving schools seeking accreditation. These centres would be empowered to conduct training, evaluate trainee performance, and issue completion certificates.
  • Infrastructure Requirements: Accredited training centres must meet specific infrastructure criteria, including:
    • A minimum of one acre of land for facilities exclusively training four-wheel vehicle drivers.
    • A minimum of two acres of land for facilities offering training for both two-wheel and four-wheel vehicle drivers.
  • Standardized Training Duration: The draft specifies minimum training durations for comprehensive skill development:
    • For light motor vehicles (four-wheelers): A minimum of 29 hours of training spread over at least 26 days.
    • For two-wheelers: A minimum of 21 hours of training spread over at least 21 days.
  • Exemption from RTO Test: Individuals who complete certified training and successfully pass the assessment at an accredited driving school may be exempt from the driving test typically conducted by RTOs when applying for a new driving licence.
  • Free Services via Schools: Services such as duplicate driving licences, change of address on a driving licence, and international driving permits could be processed free of charge through accredited centres, streamlining the process for applicants.
  • Implementation Timeline: The proposed effective date for these new norms, particularly concerning accredited driver training centres, is October 1, 2024.

The draft notification is currently open for public feedback, allowing stakeholders and the general public to submit their comments and suggestions regarding the proposed changes. Following the review of public input, MoRTH is expected to finalize and implement the new regulations. This move underscores the government's continued focus on strengthening road safety measures and improving the overall quality of driver education in the country.