The driving school update 2025 marks a major shift in how new driving licences will be issued across India. Starting September 1, 2025, the Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) will mandate certified driving school training for all new applicants seeking a permanent driving licence. This update is part of a broader road safety and traffic discipline initiative rolled out by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
Previously, candidates could directly appear for the driving test without undergoing any structured training. However, under the new system, the RTO will only accept applications for permanent licences from individuals who have completed certified training at government-approved driving schools.
This move is expected to enhance road safety, reduce accidents, and improve driver accountability. Here’s everything you need to know about the driving school update 2025, how it works, and how new drivers should prepare.
What’s Changing from September 2025?
The driving school update 2025 makes it mandatory for every driving licence applicant — regardless of vehicle type — to undergo structured training at an RTO-recognized training institute.
Key Policy Changes:
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Mandatory driving school training for all private and commercial licence applicants
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Only MoRTH-certified schools can offer valid training
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Completion certificate must be submitted during licence application
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Training includes both theoretical and practical sessions
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Driving test may be waived for candidates with high scores in certified training modules
This rule applies nationwide and affects both two-wheeler and four-wheeler licence applicants at all RTO branches.
Structure of the New Training Program
The certified training under the driving school update 2025 includes a standardized curriculum developed by the MoRTH. It ensures drivers are not only skilled but also well-informed about road laws and safety procedures.
| Training Module | Duration (Approx.) | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| Theory Sessions | 8–10 hours | Traffic rules, road signs, ethics |
| Simulator Training | 4–6 hours | Gear shifts, emergency braking |
| On-Road Driving | 10–12 hours | Real-world conditions, highway practice |
| Safety & First Aid | 2 hours | Accident response, CPR basics |
| Final Assessment | 1 hour | Evaluation for certificate issuance |
The training must be completed within 15 to 30 days, and the certificate is valid for 6 months for RTO submission.
Benefits of Mandatory Driving School Training
This new mandate brings several advantages for the driving ecosystem in India, especially for new drivers:
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Better road awareness and adherence to traffic rules
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Higher pass rates in the RTO system due to pre-assessment
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Reduction in fatal accidents caused by untrained drivers
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Standardization of skill level across the country
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Less dependency on “agents” or informal training setups
Furthermore, it also creates a regulated framework for training instructors and generates new employment opportunities within the formal driving education sector.
How New Applicants Should Proceed
If you’re planning to apply for a driving licence post-September 1, 2025, follow this roadmap:
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Find a certified driving school in your district — check the MoRTH or RTO website for the approved list
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Enroll in the training program and complete all sessions
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Pass the internal assessment and receive the completion certificate
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Apply for your driving licence on the Parivahan Sewa portal
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Upload your training certificate along with Aadhaar, photo, and address proof
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Wait for RTO verification and issuance of the licence — in most cases, the driving test may be waived
This new training-led approach is expected to eliminate shortcuts in the learning process and ensure only qualified drivers get licensed.
FAQs
What is the driving school update 2025?
It refers to the policy effective from September 2025 that mandates certified driving school training for all applicants before applying for a permanent driving licence in India.
Will I still need to take an RTO driving test?
In most cases, candidates with high scores from MoRTH-approved driving schools may be exempt from the driving test. However, some RTOs may still require it randomly.
Are all driving schools eligible to issue certificates?
No. Only schools approved by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and listed on official RTO portals are authorized to provide valid training certificates.
What happens if I apply without the certificate?
Your application will be rejected. Under the driving school update 2025, the training certificate is mandatory for licence approval.
Is the training expensive?
Training costs vary by state and school but are expected to range between ₹2,000 to ₹7,000 for private vehicles, and ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 for commercial training programs.
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