Commercial driving license not required for taxis, 3-wheelers

The road transport ministry has issued an advisory which states that drivers don't need to have a commercial driving license in order to operate taxis, 3-wheelers, e-rickshaws and 2-wheelers used for home deliveries. States have also been notified to stop issuing badges to those driving these vehicles. Therefore, a private license holder will now be able to operate select commercial vehicles, however a commercial driving license is a must for heavy commercial vehicles like trucks and buses. 

The decision is expected to increase employment opportunities for drivers, however it might also increase congestion on roads. It is believed that with more taxis and rickshaws plying on the roads, people might actually prefer using a cab for their daily commutes instead of private vehicles.

Further, the move is expected to reduce the corruption involved in issuing a commercial license. Until recently, a private license holder had to wait for a year to get a commercial license. 

Source: TOI