Maharashtra Makes Domicile Certificate Mandatory For Driving Licences

The Maharashtra government has announced that a domicile certificate will be mandatory for obtaining a driving licence from August 1, 2026. This new policy aims to streamline the licensing process and is part of the state's efforts to improve the transportation system.

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik made this announcement in the legislative assembly on Tuesday, stating that the proposal for the new driving licence rules had been sent to the Law and Judiciary Department for approval. The minister also mentioned that the government is taking action against unauthorised bike taxi services and is working on a regulatory framework to legalise and regulate the sector.

The new policy includes provisions for bike taxi operators, who will be required to pay a daily fee of Rs 5 to the government, as well as an additional Rs 2 from every ride that will be deposited into a welfare fund for drivers. Bike taxi drivers will also be required to hold a valid driving licence and a public service vehicle badge, and will need to undergo a police character verification before the badge is issued.

The minister emphasized that strict action will continue against drivers who violate traffic rules or operate vehicles illegally. The Maharashtra Bike Taxi Rules, 2025, include special provisions to ensure the safety of women, students, and minor passengers. The state government has also granted temporary licences to aggregator companies such as Uber, Rapido, and Ola, subject to compliance with all prescribed conditions within one month.

This new policy is expected to have a significant impact on the transportation system in Maharashtra, particularly in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. It is likely to affect not only bike taxi operators but also the general public, who will need to obtain a domicile certificate to apply for a driving licence. The government's efforts to regulate the bike taxi sector and improve the safety of passengers are seen as a positive step towards creating a more streamlined and secure transportation system.

The implementation of this policy is expected to generate state revenue and create employment opportunities for young people. The government's decision to make domicile certificates mandatory for driving licences is also seen as a way to prevent the misuse of driving licences and to ensure that only eligible individuals are able to obtain them. Overall, the new policy is a significant development in the state's efforts to improve its transportation system and to provide a safer and more secure environment for passengers.

In the coming months, the state government is expected to take further steps to implement the new policy and to ensure that all bike taxi operators are complying with the regulations. The government will also need to ensure that the public is aware of the new requirements and that they are able to obtain the necessary documents to apply for a driving licence. With the implementation of this policy, Maharashtra is taking a significant step towards creating a more modern and efficient transportation system that prioritizes the safety and security of its citizens.