Applying for a driving licence in India is getting easier and more streamlined. The central government has issued new rules that will change how licences are trained, tested, and issued in 2025. These updates aim to reduce long queues at RTOs, improve road safety, and make the licence process faster and more transparent. If you are planning to apply for a licence soon, here’s everything you need to know about the new driving licence rules.
New Rule: Licence Test Can Be Skipped with Training Certificate
One of the biggest changes is that applicants can now skip the RTO driving test if they complete training at an Accredited Driving Training Centre (ADTC).
These centres follow strict government standards and issue a completion certificate after proper training.
Applicants who receive this certificate will not be required to take the traditional driving test at the RTO.
This aims to reduce congestion, long waiting times, and inconsistencies in the testing process.
Digital and Faster Processing of Licence Applications
The new rules promote a more digital approach to licence applications.
Most processes—including form submission, document upload, and fee payment—can now be completed online through the Parivahan/Sarathi portal.
This eliminates multiple visits to the RTO and makes the application journey smoother.
The central government aims to make the licence system transparent and corruption-free by reducing manual intervention.
Updated Training Hours and Curriculum
The new policy includes strict training guidelines:
Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) training will require around 29 hours, including theory and practical lessons spread over four weeks.
Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV) training will require around 38 hours of structured training.
This ensures drivers receive proper road awareness, safety training, and hands-on driving practice before being issued a licence.
Who Can Apply Under the New Rules?
The minimum age for obtaining a permanent driving licence remains 18 years for private vehicles.
For commercial or transport vehicles, a higher age limit and longer training requirements apply.
Learner licence applicants can also benefit from online learning modules and digital tests available on official portals.
The rules are designed to make the process more user-friendly for new applicants.
Why These New Rules Are Important
India sees a high number of road accidents every year, many due to lack of proper driver training.
By shifting training responsibilities to certified centres and making the system digital, the government aims to improve road safety.
More structured training means new drivers will be better prepared and aware of traffic rules.
This also reduces corruption and delays linked to manual driving tests at crowded RTO offices.
What Applicants Should Do in 2025
Anyone applying for a licence should consider enrolling in an Accredited Driving Training Centre to avoid the RTO test.
Keep all required documents ready: Aadhaar, address proof, age proof, and passport-size photographs.
Apply through the Sarathi Parivahan portal for faster processing.
Stay updated with your State Transport Department, as implementation may vary slightly by state.
Conclusion: The new driving licence rules issued by the central government bring significant improvements to the application and training process. With the option to skip the RTO driving test, online application facilities, and structured driver training, getting a licence in 2025 will be more convenient and efficient. These reforms aim to create safer roads and a more transparent transport system for all citizens.
Disclaimer: Rules may vary by state based on implementation timelines. Applicants should verify the latest information from their local RTO or the official Parivahan portal before applying.
