To enhance the reliability and authenticity of driving licences issued within the state, the government has introduced stringent measures governing the driving licence test and issuance process. The decision stems from a collaborative effort between the state government and the Transport Department to uphold the integrity of driving licences.
Transport Minister KB Ganesh Kumar had previously hinted at forthcoming changes, emphasising the need to eliminate any laxity in the issuance of licences. Under the new regulations, applicants are subjected to a comprehensive evaluation covering diverse driving conditions and terrains to ensure competency behind the wheel.
The latest directives set forth by the state government include a cap on the number of driving test applicants supervised by a Motor Vehicle Inspector (MVI) each day, with the limit fixed at 30. Moreover, vehicles equipped with automatic gear and transmission, as well as electric vehicles, are prohibited from participation in the driving test. Additionally, driving school vehicles exceeding 15 years of age are required to be replaced, and all vehicles used for driving tests must be equipped with dashboard cameras to monitor proceedings.
Further elaborating on the new directives, motorcycles in the geared category must feature foot-operated gear selection mechanisms and exceed 99 cc in engine capacity. Handlebar-mounted gear selection systems will no longer be permissible for the test. Driving school vehicles older than 15 years are mandated for replacement by May 1st. Vehicles with automatic gear and transmission, along with electric vehicles, are strictly barred from participation.
Authorities overseeing the driving tests will be held accountable for any deviation from designated testing grounds or arenas. The daily quota for driving test applicants is set at 30, including both new applicants and those reattempting the test after previous failures. Exceeding this limit will result in disciplinary action against the responsible officer. Similar restrictions apply to the issuance of learners’ licences.
Moreover, driving school vehicles must have dashboard cameras recording all proceedings, with footage to be securely stored in the MVD’s systems for a period of three months, effective from May 1st. Specific manoeuvres, including angular parking, parallel parking, zig-zag driving, and gradient tests, are mandated for the Light Motor Vehicle category in Part One of the driving test, conducted on computerised driving testing tracks.
Furthermore, driving school instructors are required to possess minimum qualifications specified by the government, ensuring standards are maintained across the board. These measures collectively aim to instil greater credibility and proficiency in the issuance of driving licences, thereby bolstering road safety and regulatory compliance within the state.
