In a move aimed at facilitating citizens and streamlining the process of obtaining driving licenses, Punjab has announced a significant amendment to its motor vehicle rules.
Traffic Police Punjab, in collaboration with the provincial government, has 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.
With this nod of approval, Traffic Police Punjab has swiftly issued a notification mandating its officers to strictly adhere to the revised guidelines, effective immediately.
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.
Providing insight into the magnitude of driving license issuances, statistics revealed that a staggering 10.2 million licenses were distributed across the province in the preceding year. Notably, within the initial four months of 2024 alone, this figure stood at an impressive 3 million. Presently, Punjab boasts a network of 100 state-of-the-art driving test centers, strategically positioned to cater to the diverse needs of its populace.
In a bid to further bolster accessibility and convenience, the traffic department has tabled a proposal to incorporate an additional 28 driving schools across Punjab. If greenlit, this initiative will substantially augment the total number of testing centers to an impressive 130, ensuring widespread coverage and ease of access for aspiring drivers.
Addressing citizen concerns head-on, Additional IG Traffic, Mirza Faran Baig, spearheaded a series of comprehensive meetings, subsequently compiling a detailed summary advocating for amendments to the existing rules. This meticulously crafted proposal was promptly forwarded to the Punjab government by the home department, eliciting extensive discussions and deliberations.
