Driving test norms tighten with road safety modules
HYDERABAD: The transport department plans to introduce a stricter system for issuing driving licences, making an online road safety awareness test mandatory before applying for a learner’s licence.
The move follows directions from the Supreme Court to strengthen road safety measures and reduce accidents and fatalities.
India records around 1.7 lakh deaths in road accidents every year. In Telangana, about 7,500 people die annually, while nearly 29,000 are injured.
Three-stage system replaces current two-step licence process
At present, the process includes a learner’s licence test and a permanent driving test. The department will add a third stage — an online road safety awareness modules test.
The new system is likely to be implemented from early April. Applicants must clear the online test before applying for the learner’s licence.
Candidates can take test from home using computer
The road safety test will include six modules, each lasting 30 minutes, with a total duration of three hours.
Candidates can take the test from home or office using a laptop or desktop computer with a camera. They may also appear at driving school centres.
After completing the test, candidates will receive a certificate number, which will be required to apply for the learner’s licence test.
Modules use real accident videos and driving scenarios
The modules will include videos of real road accidents and common driving mistakes. They will cover safe driving practices such as lane usage, mirror adjustment and overtaking.
The training will explain how accidents occur, identify fault, and show the impact on victims and families through practical examples.
Each module will include a short assessment. Officials said the test will not be difficult and most candidates are expected to pass.
A senior transport department official said the new system aims to ensure that new drivers avoid common mistakes. While the process will become stricter, it is expected to help reduce road accidents.
