No driving test needed at RTO to obtain driving licence

Accredited driver training centres will feature simulators and have dedicated driving tests. The centres will also provide industry-specific specialised training.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways of the Government of India has amended a rule, making it possible for candidates to obtain a driving license without taking a driving test at the regional transport offices (RTOs). The amended rule came into effect on July 1, 2021.

Accredited driver training centres have been notified about the amended rule by the ministry. These training centres will feature simulators and have a dedicated driving test. Applicants will receive driving courses and lessons about basic ethical and courteous behaviour, with others on the road. After this, they will have to clear a test. There will be no need to take driving tests at the time of getting a license.

The driving courses for light motor vehicles will run for 29 hours over a maximum period of four weeks from the date of commencement of the course. Those for medium and heavy motor vehicles will run for 38 hours over a period of six weeks. The course will be divided into theory and practice.

The centres will also provide industry-specific specialised training. The accreditation granted for accredited driving training centres will be valid for five years and can be renewed.

Source: Hindustan Times