Thiruvananthapuram: The Transport Department on Saturday revised the circular issued in February by the Transport Commissioner enlisting new rules for driving test. The driving school owners have boycotted driving tests in protest against the new rules following a joint meeting by multiple associations, including CITU, INTUC, and the All Kerala Driving School Owners Association.
The number of applicants undertaking the test at a center has been increased from 30 to 40, as per the order issued by the Transport Department on Saturday. Out of these, 25 are new applicants, 10 are re-test candidates, and 5 are applicants seeking urgent approval for overseas travel or higher studies. The applications will be reviewed by the respective office head before 11 am every day.
Following the scrutiny of applications, the Motor Vehicle inspector (MVI) will conduct the road test. Successful candidates will then undergo a ground test which will be evaluated by the Assistant Motor Vehicle Inspectors (AMVI). Upon successful completion of both tests, they will be eligible for licence
Vehicles equipped with dual clutch and brake (Dual Control System) will not be permitted for tests. The requirements mandated in the circular regarding dashboard cameras and VLDCs must be fulfilled within the next 3 months, the latest order said.
An extension of 6 months has also been granted to the condition that vehicles older than 15 years should not be used for tests. The driving test officials must not conduct the vehicle fitness test on the same day as the driving test.
Part 1 of the driving test must be conducted in the previous manner (H test) until the track for conducting the new test is prepared. Efforts must be made to establish test centres in locations under government control, the circular said.
The revised norms aimed at enhancing the evaluation of candidates' driving abilities across different road conditions.