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New Driving Licence Rules in India 2024–2025 What Changed?
Latest driving licence updates, RTO changes, and training exemptions explained.
The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, governs India’s driving licence process, and the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. In June 2024, key amendments were made to allow accredited private driving training schools to conduct driving tests and issue certificates (Form 5B) that can exempt applicants from taking the driving test at the Regional Transport Office (RTO). In January 2025, the Institutions of Driving Training and Research (IDTR) scheme was also revised to improve infrastructure and training standards.
Here’s what you need to know if you are applying for a licence in 2024–2025.
1. Eligibility and Age Requirements
Private (non-transport) vehicles – Minimum age: 18 years.
Commercial/transport vehicles – Minimum age: 20 years.
Learner’s licence – Required first, valid for six months; you must hold it for at least 30 days before applying for a permanent licence.
2. Learner’s Licence Test
The learner’s test covers:
Road signs and markings.
Traffic rules and safe driving practices.
Awareness of fuel efficiency and pollution reduction.
How to Practice Learner’s Licence Test on the Parksmart App
Preparing for your learner’s licence is now easier with the Parksmart app, available on both Android and iOS. Follow these simple steps to get started:
1. Download the Parksmart App
Go to the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store and search for Parksmart. Download and install the app on your smartphone.
2. Navigate to Services
Open the app and head to the Services section. Here you can explore multiple RTO and vehicle-related services offered by Parksmart.
3. Select “Licence Test”
From the available options, tap on Licence Test. You will find updated RTO-style question banks, road sign quizzes, and mock test practice sets.
4. Start Your Test
From the available options, choose Licence Test. Once selected, the mock test will automatically begin with updated RTO-style questions and road sign quizzes.
3. Structured Driver Training at Accredited Schools
If you enrol in a government-accredited driving training centre and complete the structured programme, you can be exempted from the RTO driving test.
Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) – 29 hours (8 theory + 21 practical) over 4 weeks.
Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV) – 38 hours (16 theory + 22 practical) over 6 weeks.
Training encompasses various road conditions, basic maintenance, and emergency handling procedures.
4. Driving Test at RTO
For those not trained at accredited schools, the RTO practical test includes:
Starting, stopping, and parking.
Turning and reversing.
Observing road rules.
While some centres have automated testing tracks, not all RTOs use them.
5. Required Documents
You must submit:
Proof of age.
Proof of address (Aadhaar, passport, voter ID, etc.).
Passport-sized photographs.
Digital documents via DigiLocker are accepted in most states.
6. Parivahan Portal Services
The Parivahan portal supports:
Online applications and fee payment.
Slot booking for learners’ and driving tests.
Status tracking.
Renewal of licences.
Some states now offer fully faceless, contactless DL services.
7. Eco-Friendly Driving Awareness
Although not a new requirement, training includes techniques for fuel-efficient driving and emission control as part of road safety education.
8. First Aid in Training
Basic first aid is included in accredited school training syllabi. However, a separate first aid certificate is only mandatory for certain categories, such as hazardous goods transport licences, and is not a universal requirement.
9. Smart Card and Digital Licences
Most states issue PVC smart card licences with QR codes. Older booklets are being phased out during renewals. Digital DLs are also available via the mParivahan app.
10. Renewal Reminders
Registered users on the Parivahan portal receive SMS/email alerts before expiry. Licences can be renewed up to 1 year before or after expiry (late fees apply after expiry).
11. Advanced Training and Testing Facilities
IDTR centres and some private accredited schools use simulators for hazard perception and skill assessment. These are not yet available at every RTO.
Bottom Line
The most significant change in recent years is the June 2024 rule, which allows accredited private driving schools to conduct driving tests and issue certificates for RTO test exemptions. Other updates in 2025 mainly improve training infrastructure rather than changing applicant requirements. For accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to parivahan.gov.in or the official MoRTH website before applying.
