The anticipated rollout of new driving licence guidelines in Telangana, aimed at enabling private entities to conduct driving tests, has hit a roadblock with no private stakeholders stepping forward to establish accredited Driving Training Centres (DTC).
As per the directives mandated by the Union government, the new system was slated to commence operations from June 1, facilitating a streamlined process for obtaining driving licences. However, the transport department in Telangana is yet to receive any applications from private entities interested in establishing the accredited DTCs, casting uncertainty over the implementation timeline.
Sources familiar with the matter attribute the lack of interest from private stakeholders to the stringent eligibility criteria outlined for setting up DTCs. Notably, prospective trainers are mandated to possess a minimum of one acre of land, in addition to meeting other infrastructure and workforce requirements, as stipulated by the Central Vehicle Motor (CMV) rules.
The necessity for substantial land holdings poses a significant challenge for applicants, particularly in urban centers like Hyderabad, where land prices are exorbitant. Consequently, the reluctance to invest in land acquisition or leasing, coupled with uncertainties regarding operational costs and revenue models, has deterred private entities from embracing the new system.
Under the proposed framework, driving tests would no longer be conducted at Regional Transport Offices (RTOs). Instead, accredited private driving schools would administer the tests, issuing certificates to successful applicants, which can then be utilized to procure licences from the RTOs. While the guidelines aim to simplify the licensing process, concerns linger regarding the potential financial implications for applicants.
Moreover, ambiguity surrounding fee structures for DTC services adds another layer of complexity to the situation. The absence of clear directives regarding fee collection mechanisms and revenue distribution raises concerns about uniformity and transparency in the licensing process. In light of these challenges, stakeholders emphasize the need for comprehensive deliberations and revisions to address operational hurdles and ensure the seamless adoption of the new driving licence framework in Telangana.
