Driving License Update: The issue of granting driving licenses to 16-year-olds became a topic of discussion during the budget session of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly. Samajwadi Party MLA from Chitrakoot, Anil Pradhan, raised the issue in the context of a government scheme to provide scooters to meritorious female students. In response, Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh stated that the state government is considering granting licenses to younger children for a limited number of vehicles.
Why Central Approval Is Necessary
The Transport Minister clarified that the rules related to driving licenses fall under the Central Motor Vehicles Act. Therefore, the state government cannot make any final decisions on its own. Therefore, permission has been sought from the Central Government. Only if the Central government approves will changes to the rules be possible.
Previously, licenses were available for 50cc vehicles
During the discussion in the Legislative Assembly, MLA Anil Pradhan questioned that many students who pass intermediate exams are between 15 and 16 years old. With the government implementing a plan to provide scooters, changes to licensing rules for such students become necessary. The minister explained that previously, licenses were issued for vehicles up to 50cc at the age of 16. However, this system ceased due to the discontinuation of production of these vehicles.
New Opportunities Open with Electric Vehicles
Dayashankar Singh stated that the increasing adoption of light electric vehicles has once again opened up new possibilities in this area. The government wants to grant driving licenses for limited-capacity electric vehicles to teenagers aged 16 to 18. A formal request has been sent to the central government regarding this proposal.
Major Changes Prepared at the Central Level
According to sources, the central government is considering several significant changes to the Motor Vehicles Act. These could include amendments to driving license categories, an experience-based licensing system, and separate rules for electric vehicles. Proposals also include granting learner’s licenses to teenagers aged 16 to 18 for light electric vehicles up to 1500 watts.
The Issue Related to the Rani Lakshmibai Scooty Scheme
In the recent budget, the Yogi government allocated ₹400 crore to provide scooties to meritorious girl students under the Rani Lakshmibai Scooty Scheme. The scheme aims to promote female education and provide them with safe transportation. However, the announcement of the scooty distribution has sparked debate about underage licenses, road safety, and legal regulations.
What May Happen Next
Currently, the state government is awaiting central government approval. If the proposal receives the green light, licenses for limited-capacity vehicles could be issued to 16-year-olds. This will provide convenience to young people, but strict enforcement of road safety rules will also pose a significant challenge for the government.