Big Update Regarding New Driving Test Rules,Check Here
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has recently issued a clarification concerning the rules and regulations that govern Accredited Driver Training Centers (ADTC) and driving schools. This announcement was made in response to media reports suggesting changes in the requirements for obtaining a driving license.
According to the press release, the ministry emphasized that there will be no changes to the existing provisions starting from June 1, 2024. The rules regarding ADTCs are codified under Rules 31B to 31J of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR), 1989, and were initially introduced through GSR 394(E) on June 7, 2021. These rules have been in effect since July 1, 2021.
The purpose of these rules is to outline the standards and procedures necessary for accrediting driver training centers, which aim to enhance the quality of driver education and ensure greater safety on the roads. This framework is part of a broader effort to improve road safety and driving competence across the country.
Furthermore, Section 12 of the Motor Vehicles (MV) Act, 1988, which deals with the licensing and regulation of driving schools, was amended by the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019. This amendment introduced subsections (5) and (6), which specifically address schools or establishments accredited by a body notified by the Central Government.
Accreditation for ADTCs can be granted by the State Transport Authority or any authorized agency notified by the Central Government. This process is based on the recommendations of testing agencies mentioned in Rule 126 of CMVR, 1989. Such rigorous accreditation processes ensure that the training provided meets high standards of quality and comprehensiveness.
Upon the successful completion of a course at an ADTC, candidates receive a certificate known as Form 5B as per sub-rule (iii) of Rule 31E of CMVR, 1989. This certificate exempts the holder from the driving test requirement under the proviso to sub-rule (2) of Rule 15 of CMVR, 1989.
In contrast, other driving schools established under Rule 24 of CMVR, 1989, which have less stringent requirements, issue a different certificate upon course completion known as Form 5 as per sub-rule (d) of Rule 27 of CMVR, 1989. However, this certificate does not exempt the holder from the driving test requirement under the same proviso of Rule 15.
The Ministry reiterated that, despite the exemptions provided for ADTC certificates, the ultimate authority to issue a driving license rests with the licensing authority. Applicants must submit their applications with the appropriate certificate, either Form 5 or Form 5B, depending on their training institution.
