Massive hike in driving license fees announced

The federal government has announced a significant increase in driving license fees through a recent notification, affecting both motorcycle and vehicle owners across the country.

The latest notification outlines a substantial rise in driving license fees, impacting individuals seeking licenses for motorcycles as well as small and large vehicles. The license fee for these categories has been increased by 25%.

Moreover, individuals opting for urgent license issuance will now be subject to an additional Rs 2,000. Furthermore, the notification specifies new charges for the mandatory driving test, with applicants for small vehicles required to pay Rs 300 and those applying for licenses for large vehicles facing a fee of Rs 500. 

Additionally, individuals seeking a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) for licence approval will be required to pay a fixed fee of Rs 1,000.

In a move aimed at facilitating citizens and streamlining the process of obtaining driving licences, Punjab recently announced a significant amendment to its motor vehicle rules. The Punjab Traffic Police, in collaboration with the provincial government, revised its policy, allowing failed driving test candidates to retake their examination after a shortened waiting period of two weeks, as opposed to the previous six-week duration.

This groundbreaking decision comes on the heels of meticulous deliberations within the Punjab Cabinet, culminating in the approval of amendments to the longstanding Punjab Motor Vehicle Rules of 1969. 

An official spokesperson highlighted that every aspiring driver is granted a learning permit valid for six months, affording ample time for preparation ahead of the rigorous driving test.

With the recent integration of an online license system, an impressive 360,000 candidates are rendered eligible to undergo the driving assessment every six months, significantly enhancing accessibility and efficiency.