The Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) of Kerala has introduced new rules for driving license tests, doing away with the traditional H-test pattern. As per a circular issued by the Transport Commissioner on Thursday, the use of automatic transmission vehicles and electric vehicles will not be permitted during the tests. The move aims to improve the quality of drivers licensed in the state.
New Rules for Driving License Tests in Kerala
To improve driving skills, the MVD has made some new rules for getting a two-wheeler license in Kerala. Applicants now must take the driving test on a motorcycle with manual gears and an engine bigger than 95cc. If someone takes the test using a vehicle with an automatic transmission, they will not get the license. Unlike before when tests were done on closed tracks, now the road test will happen on public roads with real traffic. This will make getting a two-wheeler license more difficult and ensure that only skilled drivers are licensed.
For four-wheelers, the ground test will include critical maneuvers such as angular parking, parallel parking, gradient test and zig-zag test. Driving school vehicles used for these tests should have mandatory video recording equipment and location tracking systems installed. Limits have also been set on the number of people who can take the driving test in a day. Examiners have been restricted to testing not more than 30 candidates daily, out of which 20 should be new applicants. If found flouting these limits, stern action will be initiated against the motor vehicle inspectors. The number of learners’ license tests held will also be proportionate to the driving tests.
Additionally, driving school instructors must have the requisite technical qualifications in automobile engineering or mechanics. They should have completed certified courses from recognized technical institutes. The department will also enforce age limits for vehicles used in driving schools. Cars older than 15 years will be phased out and replaced by May 1st, 2024.
The new rules are expected to make driving tests more stringent, ensuring only skilled drivers get licensed in Kerala. Road safety activists have welcomed the move, although some concerns have been raised regarding the availability of compliant vehicles. The coming months will reveal the impact of these regulatory changes on public road safety in the state.
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