Aadhaar Card will be mandatory for DL

The Centre will soon ask all the states to make the Aadhaar card mandatory to avail a driving licence. This step will be taken to stop the issuance of multiple DLs under the same person’s name. This measure is expected to stop the over issuance of licences. It will also help in suspending licences and finding fake licences. The biometric details of the Aadhaar card can help the traffic police department put a stop to such activities. According to sources, the process will kick start from October, 2017.

The transport ministry has already taken necessary steps to start the process. As DL issuance is a state run subject, the centre will encourage the state ministries to adopt this system. The quicker it is adopted by the states, the better it is for the RTOs. As it is not really difficult to avail a driving licence, confiscation by traffic cops does not really work as a preventive step.

The Aadhaar card will serve as a single document that establishes the applicant’s identity. The RTOs are also being equipped so that these details can be recorded by them for the issuance of driving licences.

Considering the fact that the Motor Vehicle Act is over 30 years old, the rules are vague and not suitable for the increasing amount of traffic and road accidents. The government has considered the statistics from the past and came to a conclusion that by making Aadhaar mandatory and increasing the fine for traffic rule violation can help curb and reduce a huge number of road accidents, duplicate driving licences, and duplicate vehicle registrations.

Once Aadhaar becomes mandatory for driving licences and vehicle registrations, the government will gain superior administrative control while maintaining transparency through the digitized platform powered by Aadhaar. Aadhaar is already an important identification document that is required for application of new LPG connection, admission to colleges, board exams, PAN card, e-filing ITR, and various other welfare programs and subsidy from the government.

What the Government has Done for Road Safety : National Road Safety Policy

Preamble

The Government of India has recognized that road accidents is a leading cause of death in the country. It has also recognized the importance of addressing road safety in order to reduce the number of accidents, deaths and injuries on the road. This must also be seen as a joint effort/responsibility of State and Central Government. The National Road Safety Policy is an effort for this movement by the government.

Policy Statements:

The Government has taken the following steps to improve safety on the roads:

1. Raise awareness about issues related to road safety
   The government would escalate its efforts to endorse awareness about road safety and all its aspects. This includes the implications of road accidents and the steps which have to be taken to reduce the number of incidents. The purpose of this is to enable and empower people on the road in order for them to take on a meaningful role in promoting road safety.
2. Launch a Road Safety Information Database
   The government would help with increasing the quality of data collection, transmission, analysis and crash investigation by extending a hand to Union Territories, States and local bodies.
3. Safer Road Infrastructure
   There will be measures taken by the Government to ensure better standards in terms of design and safety of urban and rural roads. Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) is to be put in use to ensure efficient and safe transport system which will be on par with international best practices.
4. Safer Vehicles
   The vehicles on the roads must be signed off as in line with international standards so that they pose least threat in terms of safety on the roads and harm to the environment. For this the safety features must be monitored from the stage of design, production, operation and maintenance of vehicles.
5. Safer Drivers
   The government will take measures to ensure that only highly capable and competent drivers are behind the wheel by making the system of driver licensing stricter.
6. Safer conditions for Vulnerable Road Users
   The needs of people on the road (including the physically challenged, the vulnerable and non-motorized transport) will be taken into account during the design and construction of all road facilities. Town planners, highway, engineers, traffic engineers and architects will have to keep ‘best practices’ while working on roads.
7. Road Traffic Safety Education and Training
   Publicity campaigns, training and education will be used to create awareness and instil road safety knowledge among the population (both in the community and in educational institutions).
8. Safety Laws Enforcement
   Various state and other governments will be aided by the Government of India to strengthen enforcements. This will make safety law implementation more uniform and effective. Highway Patrolling on National and State Highways will also be increased in number and frequency.
9. Emergency Medical Amenities for Accidents on the Road
   There will be all efforts made from the government to ensure that everyone who is involved in accidents on the road will get quick, superior medical care. The main features of such medical care includes efficient rescue operations and conducting first aid at the accident site, as well as transporting the injured to the hospital for further care. Further, the government will ensure that all hospitals near National Highways/ State Highways are prepared to care for those who are injured in road accidents sufficiently.
10. HRD and Research for Road Safety
    Programmes of road safety research will be encouraged by the government. This includes identifying priority areas, funding research, founding research and academic institutions etc. The results of such research will be disseminated by the government through workshops, training, publication, conferences and websites.
11. Fortifying Institutional, Legal and Financial Environment for Road Safety

Implementation Strategy

National Road Safety Board is an agency that the Government has dedicated to supervise the matters related to road safety. This board is meant to provide strategies that will implement Road Safety Policy. National Road Safety Fund is also to be established by the Government to fund road activities.

Top 10 Tips on How To Save Fuel

All of us remember a time, which now seems like eons ago, when petrol prices hovered around Rs 50 for a litre. Though, deemed as high for those times, the price at which fuel retails now, can be termed as nothing short of insane. The prices of diesel and petrol have shot up in the past few years, making fuel a prized commodity. The direct effect of these rising fuel prices has been on the customers who are looking to purchase a car or a two wheeler. The primary factor which influences car buyers now is the vehicle’s fuel efficiency. However, no matter how fuel efficient the vehicle may be, the cost of fuel is only rising with time. Considering this, one cannot just restrict themselves with choosing a vehicle which offers high fuel efficiency. Driving habits and the condition of the vehicle are also major factors when it comes to conserving fuel. So, here are a few tips and tricks with the help of which you can save on fuel while commuting.

1. Avoid Aggressive Driving –

   Rapid accelerating, speeding, and frequent braking an eat up a lot of fuel. These practices can reduce your fuel efficiency by as much as 33% on highways and driving within the city.

2. Keep Your Speed in Check –

   Your car’s fuel consumption is dependent on various factors like the vehicle’s aerodynamics, road friction, engine efficiency, etc. As the speed of the car increases, the fore of the wind against the vehicle also increases. The friction on the road also plays a factor. Studies conducted have suggested that once the speed of the vehicle goes beyond 80kmph, its efficiency drops significantly.
   Given that, it is advisable to drive at speeds between 60 kmph to 80 kmph, depending on the kind of road you are driving on.

3. A Loaded Trunk Decreases Fuel Efficiency –

   If the trunk of your car is loaded and heavy, it can also reduce the fuel efficiency and hence reduce mileage also.

4. Regular Servicing is Necessary –

   With use over time, every vehicle can go through routine wear and tear. In order to keep that wear and tear in check and help restore the vehicle to optimum running condition, it is necessary that the vehicle must be regularly serviced for engine tune up, air filter cleaning, oil check, etc.

5. On Highways, Drive with Your Windows Up –

   As compared to in-city driving, highway driving is usually done at relatively higher speeds. Driving at higher speeds with the windows down increases the drag on the vehicle which results in about 10% more fuel consumption.

6. Limit the use of the Air conditioning while driving –

   As we all know, driving the car with the AC running can increase the load on the engine, causing greater fuel consumption. So, limit the use of air conditioning unless it's necessary.

7. Maintain tire pressure:

   Tire pressure level must be maintained as recommended by manufacturer

8. Avoid jerky driving –

   Sudden acceleration and sudden braking done frequently can increase unnecessary fuel consumption by up to 20%. Slow and steady acceleration and braking is the advisable technique for saving fuel.

9. Avoid Running The Engine On Idle –

   Idling is defined as when the engine of the vehicle is running but the vehicle itself isn’t moving. This is commonly done to keep the AC running. This is a common practice which people follow while waiting in traffic but it ends up wasting a lot of fuel. It is advisable that if the wait time in traffic is more than 10 seconds, you should turn the engine off.

Top Ways To De-stress & Be Productive While Being Stuck In Traffic

Traffic is the bane of every city dweller’s existence. Ever since the 70’s, there has been a constant rise the number of vehicles over the years. With time, cars have become more of a necessity than a luxury as manufacturers roll out new models almost each quarter. With facilities like car loan and EMI payments, it has become easier than ever before for a person to purchase a car. However, this rapid spike in the population of vehicles has given rise to the evil problem of traffic congestion.

Anyone who has to commute to work will be familiar with the frustration and irritation which comes with having to wait in traffic. With no regard for driving rules, traffic jams have become the order of the day as commuters keep aside an hour or more for traffic related delays while on their way to work. Sometimes, it may clear in a few minutes, but mostly, routine traffic jams usually have you standing for about 15 minutes on an average at a signal. So, on a daily basis, an individual could be wasting up to an hour, just stuck in traffic, while on their way to work or while travelling anywhere within the city.

However, do you know, there are plenty of things which you could do instead of just waiting for that darned traffic to clear. It doesn’t matter that you are seated in your car, with horns honking all around, you can still make good use of your time by doing something which can benefit you greatly. Read on to find out how you can not only de-stress but also be productive while being stuck in traffic.

1. Make a To-do List –

   What better time than this to quickly prepare a to-do list for tasks which need to be done. Be it making a grocery list, or jotting down a list of minor repair work which needs to be done around the house, you can do it while sitting in your car, be it on a writing pad or even on your cellphone.

2. Listen To An Audiobook –

   This is a great option for all those avid readers who love to take up a book in whatever spare time they can get. While it might not be the best idea to open a hardback while you may be waiting in traffic, an audiobook is the perfect alternative. All you need is your smartphone, earphones and a reliable data connection. The Google Playstore has plenty of top rated audiobook apps which let you choose from thousands of titles. So take your pick and start enjoying.

3. Re-arrange Your Wallet –

   You might have been putting it off for a long time, but you can't ignore it any longer that you wallet needs de-cluttering. What better time than now, while you have it. Pick out all those old petrol receipts, bills, tickets, etc. that’s of no use any more and slim down your wallet.

4. Learn a New Language –

   The invention of smartphones has indeed opened a whole new world for us. One of the most fun ways to use your idle time is to learn a new language. Pick any language which fascinates or interests you and start with its basics. The Google Playstore has some award winning apps like Duolingo, Memrise, etc. where you can learn take up languages like Spanish, French, Italian, Russian and many others.

5. De-Clutter The Glove Box –

   One of the most cluttered yet ignored storage spaces in your car is the glove box compartment. Petrol receipts, restaurant drive through bills and ton of other random receipts can accumulate over time in your glove box. Take this time to go over them and toss out the ones which are of no further use.

6. Get in Touch With a Friend or Family Member –

   Is there a friend or family member you have been meaning to talk to or get in touch with for some time. Then, this would be a perfect time to do so. While you are waiting for the traffic to move, you can utilize the time to call a friend or family member and have a hearty chat without having to hurry. Also, since the average waiting time at any signal can be a good 15-20 mins, you needn’t rush through with the conversation either. However, do make sure that the law permits you to talk on the phone while waiting in traffic or it could cost you dearly.

7. Plan Out For A Task At Work –

   Driving to work in the morning can be stressful, with the constant honking and yelling all around. However, you can use this time to plan out for a task which requires completion at work. Just roll up your car windows which can help cut out the noise to a great extent and then you can plan out how you would like to approach that impending task at work. This can help you save a lot of time and undue pressure once you start your work day.

8. Sing Along With The Radio –

   Singing is one of the best ways to de-stress. The mere act of singing out loud to your favorite song can help lift your spirits and improve your mood considerably. So, turn up that radio and tune into your favorite station and let yourself go!

9. Check Your Work Email –

   For many office goers, their work schedule demands them to start their day early. However, commuting to work alone can eat up a lot of precious time which could otherwise be spent at work tackling tasks. However, there is a simple alternative to doing that. While you are waiting in traffic, you can quickly go through your work emails and respond to those which require urgent attention. This way, you can easily get ahead of your schedule and start your work day on an easier and a slightly relaxed note.

10. Organize your Weekly Calendar –

    Sitting idle in the morning? Utilize the time to re-align and organize your weekly calendar. Any meetings, doctor’s appointments, PTA meetings, personal errands to run, jot it all down in your weekly calendar so you don’t miss an important one.

So, as you can see from the suggestions listed above, there is no shortage of activities which you can rather do while killing time stuck in traffic. Whether it is in the mornings or evenings, these tasks can help occupy your mind and help you make the most of it. Pick and choose from the list above and never have another dull moment waiting in the car. However, do remember, safety comes first.

Steps to follow in case you lose your driving licence

Every driver in India needs to have a driving licence. Without this document you are not allowed to drive in the country. If you lose your driving license, you will have to apply for a duplicate one to be able to drive.

Things to do if you lost your driving licence:

• Go to the police station that has jurisdiction over the area where your driving licence lost.
• Lodge a complaint and make sure you get a copy of the First Information Report (FIR).
• Visit the Notary office to get an affidavit on a stamped paper. The affidavit will act as a proof that you took an oath before the concerned officer (executive magistrate/notary public/first class judicial magistrate) that your license is lost.

You will have to pay a small fee for the notary service and the stamped paper.

Duplicate driving licence application process:

• Go to the RTO. Make sure that you take 3 passport-sized photos, copy of the F.I.R and the affidavit with you.
• Go to the enquiry counter at the RTO and collect the application form for a duplicate license.
• Complete the application form and submit it at the Driving License Branch along with the other documents.
• After this, you will have to go through the Biometrics section. Here, your photo will be clicked and thumbprint will be taken.
• Your duplicate driving licence will be delivered within the time period stated by the Asst. RTO officer.

You will have to pay a certain amount of fee for the new DL Book or the Smart Card.

Once you get your new driving license, make a laminated copy of it. If you have a duplicate copy of your license, it will be easy for the RTO to track your details using your DL number.

Change of address in Driving License

Individuals who have shifted their residential address will have to make an application to their respective Regional Transport Office to reflect the change in their driving licence. The first step to having your residential address changed in your driving license is to obtain a No Objection Certificate / Clearance Certificate from the RTO from where you attained your driving license. Once you have obtained the CC / NOC, you will be required to go to the nearest RTO if you wish to apply for a change of address.

Documents to Change of Address in Driving License Online

• Clearance Certificate / No Objection Certificate
• Form No. 7
• Change of Address form
• Post cover
• Passport-sized photograph
• Proof of current residential address

After you have gathered the aforementioned documents, you will be required to visit the RTO nearest to your home and meet an official at the Driving Licence section where a superintendent will verify all your documents and reveal how much money you will have to pay to make changes to your address in your driving licence. Once you get the details from the superintendent, you will be required to pay the fees. After you have paid the fee, you will receive a receipt at the fee counter after which you will be requested to furnish the file to the authorities and get an acknowledgement.

Procedures after applying for change of address in driving license

Once you have completed the aforementioned procedure, your updated driving licence will be sent to your residential address via the Indian postal services within 30 days after you make an application. Individuals who shift from one state to another can follow the same procedure to make changes to their address, but an NOC will be mandatory in case a change of address is applied for in a different state, while individuals who have shifted their residential address to a town or city in the same state can simply submit a CC and have the necessary changes made.

Driving Licence Renewal

One of the momentous milestones in life is when you get your very own Driver's License. The euphoria of freedom to drive around your own vehicle and go wherever you wish to is definitely a joy to thrive on. Though you might grow out of this or even take it for granted in time, the difficulties in procuring one is not easily forgotten. Having a license alone is not enough- there is also the matter of timely renewal of said driving licence. These renewals are devised to ensure that your eligibility to keep on driving isn't hampered by advancing age or any other foreseen/unexpected conditions. Just because one was fit enough to acquire a license 20 years ago, need not mean he/ she is fit now. And yes, driving around with an expired license is as good as doing the same without one, and may be a potential problem for you, other drivers and pedestrians. Hence the licence needs to be renewed after a stipulated term.

Why should you renew your driving licence?

As per the Indian Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, it is mandatory for drivers of any vehicle to hold a valid driving licence to drive a vehicle on the road. A Driving licence is an official document issued by the government, which authorises an individual to drive a category of vehicle for which he holds a licence. This document is also acknowledged as a valid identity proof.It is a must to renew your DL after its expiry because as per the law nobody in India can drive any vehicle without a valid DL. As per Section 177 of the Motor Act, 1988, if a person is driving a vehicle without a valid DL (i.e an expired DL), is a punishable offence by law. Violators of the same are liable to be fined.

An expired driving licence is valid only for a month (i.e 30 days) post expiration and can needs to be renewed within that grace period. If your driving licence has expired more than 30 days ago, you can renew the same by paying a penalty. This holds true if only the application requesting a renewed DL is made within a time span of five years from the date of expiry. If the licence has been initially obtained from another state, then the applicant should furnish a No Objection Certificate (N.O.C.) and confirmation of driving licence issued by the original licensing authority.

Where do I file an application to renew my DL?

Duly filled application form with the set of required documents to renew your DL needs to be submitted to Assistant R.T.O. at the Driving Licence Branch in your state. Your DL will be renewed for 5 years if it is for a Non-Transport Vehicle, and for 3 years if it being renewed for a transport vehicles. One can get the renewed driving licence on the same evening, that is if the licence is procured in the same office. It needs a period of 20 days after the application has been submitted, if the case is any different from the one mentioned above. The latter takes longer as it involves a process of verification and correspondence.

Driving Licence Renewal Form:

As the name implies, a Driving Licence Renewal Form is utilised as the KYC document when the concerned vehicle owner is looking to update/renew his/her licence, and the Road Transport Office (RTO) needs to understand the specifics of the current licence. This simple document can be easily downloaded from the concerned RTO's website, or can be picked up as a physical copy from the local RTO office.

Form 9- Form of Application for the Renewal of the Driving Licence is a simple document involving a small number of informational queries. Of course, a large part of this communication concerns the applicant's current DL with space for appropriate authenticators and signatures. The completion of this form must be followed up with the attachment of the requisite documents (see next section) before the procedures of the renewal of driving licence can be put into action.

Click here to download Driving Licence Renewal Form

Documentation Required to Renew Driving Licence:

A list of valid documents are required to renew your driving licence. They have been listed below :

• Duly filled DL renewal application form. This can be downloaded you're your state's RTO/RTA portal.
• Applicant's medical certificate is a must. The form for the same can be downloaded via your state's RTO/RTA portal. Please note that this form has to be filled out by a licensed physician
• Valid permanent driving licence
• Proof of age. This can be substantiated by any of valid government issued document like PAN card, passport, voter ID card, etc.
• Address proof/proof of residence : passport, driving license, electricity bill, phone bill, lease agreement, etc.
• Passport size photographs of the applicant. Please note that the number of this differs from one state to another.
• If the permanent licence holder has changed his address from one place to another, the same must be registered within 1 month at the RTO/RTA at which the initial and original licence was issued, or at the nearest regional office.
• If the permanent DL holder has moved to another state, then the aforementioned rule applies here too. In addition to that, a licence holder from another state has to submit a NOC (no objection certificate) which needs to be issued by the RTO/RTA at which the original licence had been issued.

Fees

Please note, that as driving licence is a document which is issued by the RTO (regional transport office), the fees of it are likely to vary from state to state. Though the difference in the amount is not a lot, there is a difference on a smaller scale. Please refer to your respective state's RTO office or portal to get a complete clarity on the fee charged in your state.

OLD Fee for DL Renewal – Rs. 50

*Revised fee for Driving Licence Renewal in January – 2017 – Rs. 200

Smart Card Driving License

Conventionally, driving licences were only issued in the old book format with several pages of information. Often, with regular use, the pages of the booklet used to come apart and had to be stuck again. To make things better, modern driving licenses were issued in the form of a card that we were able to carry without any hassles. Now, smart card driving licences are slowly replacing the traditional card type driving licenses.

Smart Card Driving License	Advantages of a Smart Card Driving Licence
Eligibility for Smart Card DL	Form for Applying for Smart Card Driving License
Documentation for Smart Card DL	Online/Offline Process for getting a Smart Card DL

What is a Smart Card Driving License?

A Smart Card Driving License (SCDL) is a tamper-proof Driving License in form of a plastic card with an embedded microprocessor chip of 64 kb memory which will have all information about the DL-holder stored in it.

Though not applicable in all Indian states yet, this Smart Card DL is a far superior than the normal driving license as it holds the licence holder information on one single card. All the biometric data of the applicant like their blood group, thumb & fingerprint, retina scan, body markings, etc., are recorded on the smart card DL and is also held by the RTO / RTA office. For this purpose, the RTO department of each state (where these type of licences are issued), has special software installed that can read the embedded information in SCDL. The biggest advantage of this Smart Card DL is that one no longer has to constantly worry about the driving licence tearing, getting cut, getting wet, etc., making it easy to carry in one wallet itself. Another useful advantage of this Smart Card type DL is that it will help the transport department maintain and safe keep the data of licence holders, which can be helped to track and trace any defaulter with the help of their biometric data.

Advantages of a Smart Card Driving License

A smart card driving license is far superior than the normal driving license as it can hold information. Here are some of the benefits of smart card driving licenses that are going to steer the future.

• The Smart Card Driving License will store all details of the holder including signature, photographs, biometrics and personal details. As these details will be held in electronic form readable only by special devices, there will be no way to tamper these details or fake identity.
• The State Transport Departments that offer Smart Card Driving Licenses will also offer mobile hand - held terminals to traffic policemen who will be able to decode the information held by the card in a jiffy.
• The information carried by the smart card including the date of issue can only be modified. Information carried by the Smart Card Driving License cannot be erased which provides for a permanent audit trial.
• Smart Card Driving Licenses will prevent the issuance of fake registration certificates and bogus driving licenses.
• The data in Smart Card Driving License is stored in an optical strip that is designed to prevent unauthorized access and tampering of data.
• The Smart Card Driving Licenses are expected to positively impact road safety since the driving licenses cannot be tampered and all information will be recorded. It will also enhance efficiency in law enforcement.

Eligibility for Smart Card Driving License

The eligibility for getting a Smart Card Driving License is same as that of getting a conventional permanent driving license. For your reference, the eligibility criteria for getting a Smart Card Driving License is given below.

• The applicant must be aged at least 18 years to apply for a Smart Card Driving License for motorcycles with gear & for motorcycles with an engine capacity exceeding 50 CC.
• For motorcycles with gear and for motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 50 CC, the candidate must be at least 16 years old to get a Smart Card Driving License. In case the applicant is aged less than 18 years, he must also obtain a letter of consent from parent or guardian.
• The applicant must have at least completed 8th standard and must be at least 18 years old to get a Smart Card Driving License for commercial heavy vehicles and transport vehicles.

Form for Applying for Smart Card Driving Licence

The form for a smart card driving licence contains three parts:

• The visual inspection zone: here, the applicant information such as name, address, date of birth, vehicle class and type and signature are to be entered in this section.
• The machine readable zone: Here, the chip serial number and driving licence details such as date of issue, applicant name, issuing authority details and licence validity are to be entered in this section.
• The Central Motor Vehicles Rules: endorsements, fines, disqualification and period 9if any), settlement review and date (if any) details are to be entered in this section.

Download -Smart Card DL Form

Smart Card DL Fees

The smart card driver licence will be issued to applicants upon the payment of the application fee of Rs. 200.The applicant will have to make the payment at the time of submitting the documents and application form for Smart Card DL.

Documentation for Smart Card DL

When applying for a Smart Card Driving License, you must submit the documents given below. Keeping the necessary documents handy will not only speed up the Smart Card Driving License application process but will also make it hassle free. Here is a list of documents that you will require to get your SCDL.

• Completely filled application form for Smart Card Driving License.
• Medical Certificate - Form 1 A and 1 which is to be signed by a certified Government doctor (if applicable).
• Application Fees
• Copies of passport size photographs
• Age Proof - any one document from the below given list:
• 10th Class mark sheet
• PAN Card
• Transfer certificate from any school (with date of birth printed on it)
• Birth Certificate
• Passport
• Address Proof - any one of the below given documents
• Aadhaar Card
• Passport
• Ration Card
• House Agreement
• Recent utility bills (gas bill / electricity bill or telephone bill)
• In case you reside in other city, you can submit a copy of recent utility bill plus the rental agreement as address proof. Alternatively, you can also get a letter from your employer stating that you reside in this city.

Online Process for getting a Smart Card Driving License

Thanks to the online facilities introduced by various state RTOs, the process of applying for a Smart Card Driving License has been simplified to a great extent. Here is a brief description of the process of applying for a Smart Card Driving License that can be used for reference.

• Visit the transport department website for your state from where the online application form for Smart Card Driving License can be obtained . The required form must be downloaded and filled in correctly.
• Find out the list of documents that you must attach with the application form for your profile. You can refer to the list of documents given in the previous section.
• Refer to the table of fees and charges which will be outlined in the RTO website to find out how much you will be paying towards Smart Card Driving License.
• You must visit the RTO in your area to apply for the Smart Card driving licence. You can also book an appointment online with the concerned RTO in your city/locality to get your smart card driving licence.
• Once at the RTO office, you must first get your documents checked / verified by the concerned officer and then proceed to pay the fee at the counter. following this, you will be required to give your bio-metrics at the counter where your photograph, fingerprints, and other personal details will be recorded for the database. With the help of recent changes in the process, you can also verify the information being fed into the database for factual correctness. Applicants will be allowed to cross check the information which they have provided and can point out in case of any errors.
• You must then take a driving test and successfully complete the test to get a Smart Card Driving License. The SCDL will be sent to the registered address via speed post.

Offline Process for getting a Smart Card Driving License

You can also get a Smart Card Driving License directly at the RTO without any hassles. Follow the steps given below to apply and get a Smart Card Driving License.

• Check if your state has the Smart Card Driving License facility. It is relatively easy to convert your existing Driving License to Smart Card Driving License - all you have to do is visit the RTO, fill an application form, pay the fee and record your biometric details.
• If you hold only a Learner License and if you are applying for a permanent Driving License, you must get the application form for Smart Card Driving License and fill it completely.
• Attach photographs wherever necessary and also attach the supporting documents like address proof and age proof. Submit the application form and choose a slot to take your Driving test.
• Be present at the venue on the date and time that you have selected to take your Driving License test. If you pass the test successfully, you biometric details like fingerprints, signature and photograph will be taken to be recorded in the Smart Card Driving License.
• The Smart Card Driving License will be sent to the registered address via speed post.

FAQs on Smart Card DL

1. I have a driving license that I got 5 years back. Is it mandatory for me to get my driving license converted to Smart Card Driving License type?
   No, it is not mandatory to get your driving license converted to Smart Card Driving License type. If you wish to get a SCDL, you can apply for it at the RTO.
2. I wish to convert my existing driving license to Smart Card Driving License. What should I do?
   To convert your existing Driving license to Smart Card Driving License, visit the RTO which issued your Smart Card Driving License and submit an application for the same. You will be required to attach your valid driving license and pay the fee before you get your biometrics captured.
3. I hold a valid Driving License and I am applying for a Smart Card Driving License. Will I be asked to take the driving test again in this case?
   No, if you hold a valid driving license, you can get it converted to Smart Card Driving License without having to take the driving test again.
4. How do I know if the RTO in my city offers the Smart Card Driving License?
   You can enquire with the RTO to know if they are offering a Smart Card Driving License. Also, you can check the same on your State Transport department website.
5. What is the validity period of Smart Card Driving License?
   The Smart Card Driving License is valid for a period of 20 years from the date of issue or until the holder attains the age of 50 years, whichever comes earlier. After the validity lapses, the holder can renew the Smart Card Driving License.

Learning Licence Test Questions - 2017

In order to be able to legally drive on public roads in India, one must have a valid Driving Licence and in order to do so, the first step is to procure a Learning Licence. This document can be availed by Indian citizens above the age of 16 (with written parental consent if they are not adults). Applicants who wish to avail a Learning Licence will have to pass a written test, either online or offline. The questions asked will be of a multiple choice question format, wherein applicants will have to select the correct answer. Applicants will have to get a minimum number of correct answers to pass this test.

Given below are some sample questions that may be asked during a Driving Licence Test Questions. The correct answers have been highlighted.

1. If you are near a pedestrian crossing and there are people waiting to cross the road, you should
   1. Slow down, press horn and proceed
   2. Press horn and proceed
   3. Stop the vehicle, wait until pedestrians cross and then move forward
2. You are coming towards a narrow bridge and another vehicle is about to enter the bridge from the other side. What should you do?
   1. Wait until the other vehicle crosses the bridge before proceeding
   2. Switch on headlight and the cross the bridge
   3. Increase speed of the vehicle and try to cross the bridge quickly
3. In case you see a vehicle that has met with an accident with injured passengers inside, you should -
   1. Stop your vehicle and report the matter to the nearest police station
   2. Take the vehicle to the closest police station and report the accident
   3. Take measures to secure medical attention to those injured and report the accident to the closest police station within a period of 24 hours
4. On a road that has been designated as one way
   1. You should not drive in reverse gear
   2. You should not overtake
   3. You should not park
5. You can overtake a vehicle that is in the front
   1. Through the left side of the vehicle ahead
   2. Through the right side of the vehicle ahead
   3. If the road is wide enough
6. If a vehicle approaches a railway crossing that is not guarded and the vehicle wants to proceed, the driver should
   1. Wait until the train passes
   2. Press horn and cross the track at the earliest
   3. Stop the vehicle on left hand side of the road, approach the track and ensure that there is no train or trolley coming from any side prior to crossing.
7. Transport vehicles can be distinguished by
   1. The colour of the vehicle
   2. Number plate of the vehicle
   3. Tyre size of the vehicle
8. A learner’s license is valid for a period of
   1. 30 days
   2. 6 months
   3. Until a driving licence is availed
9. In case a road does not have a footpath, pedestrians will have to
   1. Walk on the right side of the road
   2. Walk on the left side of the road
   3. Walk on any side of the road
10. Free passage should be provided to the following vehicles
    1. Express buses
    2. Police vehicles
    3. Fire service vehicles and ambulance
11. Vehicles that come from the opposite side should be allowed to proceed through the
    1. Left side
    2. Right side
    3. Any convenient side
12. Driver of a vehicle can overtake when
    1. The driver of the vehicle ahead gives the signal to overtake
    2. Road is wide enough
    3. Driving down a hill
13. Driver of a vehicle shall drive through the
    1. Left side of the road
    2. Right side of the road
    3. Center of the road
14. If a vehicle is parked on the side of a road at night
    1. The vehicle should be locked
    2. Park light should remain on
    3. All of the above
15. Fog lamps should be used when
    1. There is mist
    2. At night
    3. When the vehicle opposite is not using the dim light
16. Zebra lines are meant for
    1. Crossing of pedestrians
    2. Stopping vehicles
    3. Overtaking
17. If an ambulance is approaching
    1. No preference should be given
    2. Provide passage if there are no vehicles on the other side
    3. Allow free passage by moving to the side of the road
18. Red traffic light is an sign to
    1. Slow the vehicle
    2. Stop the vehicle
    3. Proceed with caution
19. Parking in front of a hospital is
    1. Not correct
    2. Correct
    3. Depends on the situation
20. If a driver sees the sign for ‘slippery road ahead’, he/she must
    1. Drive faster
    2. Change gear and reduce speed
    3. Apply brake but proceed in the same speed
21. Overtaking is prohibited when
    1. Roads are slippery
    2. Poses danger to oncoming traffic
    3. All of the above
22. Overtaking when the vehicle approaches a bend is
    1. Not allowed
    2. Allowed
    3. Allowed with caution
23. Drunken driving is
    1. Allowed at night
    2. Allowed during the day
    3. Prohibited at all times
24. Honking is prohibited near
    1. Places of religious worship such as Temple, Mosque and Churches
    2. Hospitals, Court of Law
    3. Near Police Stations
25. Rear view mirror is utilized for
    1. Watching traffic that is approaching from behind
    2. Watching back seat passengers
    3. Car decor
26. Boarding in and alighting from vehicles when it is in motion is
    1. Allowed in autos
    2. Allowed in buses
    3. Prohibited in all vehicles
27. Mobile phones should not be used
    1. At home
    2. In office
    3. While driving a vehicle
28. Overtaking is not allowed when
    1. When the road is wide enough
    2. When the road ahead is not visible clearly
    3. The road has no potholes
29. Pedestrians are not allowed to cross the road close to stopped vehicles or near sharp bends because
    1. It is an inconvenience to oncoming vehicles
    2. It is inconvenient to other pedestrians
    3. Drivers of approaching vehicles may not be able to see them
30. Records needed for private vehicles are
    1. G.C.R, Insurance Certificate, Registration Certificate
    2. Insurance Certificate, Registration Certificate, Driving License and Tax Token
    3. Permit, Trip Sheet, Registration Certificate
31. Validity of Pollution Under Control Certificate is
    1. 1 year
    2. 6 months
    3. 2 years
32. Minimum age for availing a license to drive a motor vehicle without gear is
    1. 16 years
    2. 21 years
    3. 18 years
33. When you see the sign for ‘School nearby’, you should
    1. Slow down and go ahead with caution
    2. Press horn and proceed in the same speed
    3. Stop the vehicle
34. If a driver of a two wheeler is turning to the left, he/she should
    1. Extend the right hand and give the left turn signal
    2. Not give any signal
    3. Extend the left hand and give the left turn signal
35. One time tax for a new car is
    1. 5 years
    2. 15 years
    3. Until registration is cancelled
36. Prior to overtaking a vehicle, driver should ensure that
    1. The road ahead is visible clearly and is safe to overtake
    2. There are no vehicles ahead
    3. The road is not safe
37. Parking is prohibited on
    1. A foot path
    2. On a one-way road
    3. On a main road
38. Hand brake should be used to
    1. Park a vehicle
    2. Apply brake suddenly
    3. Reduce speed
39. Using unregistered vehicles in public spaces is
    1. Illegal
    2. Legal
    3. Legal if necessary
40. Minimum age to avail driving license for transport vehicles is
    1. 16 years
    2. 20 years
    3. 45 years