Getting a driving licence may become tougher; 75 percent marks required to pass test

NEW DELHI: Getting a driving licence may soon become more difficult, with the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways proposing changes to the Motor Vehicles Rules. The proposed amendment aims to make the driving licence test more stringent. According to the draft rules released on Wednesday, the safe driving assessment must be conducted for at least 30 minutes. The minimum passing score will also be raised from 60 percent to 75 percent.

The draft also proposes making online services, including changes to the name and address on driving licences, free of charge, officials said. However, clarity on the proposal will emerge only after the final notification is issued. The ministry has invited public comments and suggestions on the draft rules within 30 days. The final notification will be issued after this period. The licensing authority will have to take decisions on various other applications within 15 days.

Applicants will be allowed to submit documents such as Aadhaar, passport, voter ID, e-ration card and birth certificate for obtaining a driving licence. However, LIC policies have been removed from the list of documents accepted as address proof. The draft rules also specify that driving licences must be issued either in laminated form or as PVC cards.