New Driving License Point System Proposed

The road transport ministry has proposed a new negative points system on driving licenses to tackle repeat traffic offenders. Under this plan, violations like speeding or running red lights would lead to negative points that could further lead to license suspension or cancellation when reaching certain thresholds. These penalties would then supplement existing fines.

The proposal was shared with stakeholders including state officials, experts, and NGOs during a recent road safety meeting. Officials plan to include this "demerit and merit" system in upcoming Motor Vehicles Act amendments. The system will assign negative points for violations while rewarding good driving behavior with merit points. Several countries including the UK, Australia, Germany, France, Brazil, and Canada already use similar systems.

(Also Read: Non-Payment of Traffic Fines? Your Licence Could Be Suspended)

This is not the first time that such a regulation has been proposed. Earlier in 2011, an expert committee led by former transport secretary S Sunder had recommended suspending licenses accumulating 12 points within three years, with five-year cancellations for repeat offenders after suspension. However, that never took off on a national level due to limited resources and avenues. However, the latest proposal cites that with so many modern electronic enforcement systems in the mix, enabling immediate tracking of violations will be more convenient. 

(Also Read: Delhi Traffic Police Issues Fines Worth ₹1 Crore For Vehicles Flouting Pollution Norms)

Additional reforms include mandatory driving tests for renewal applicants with traffic violations, and required learner's permits for electric vehicles under 1,500 watts with speeds up to 25 kmph. The ministry will also implement graded eligibility for obtaining learner's licenses.