Patna: Getting a four-wheeler driving licence in Bihar is set to become significantly more challenging under a new automated testing system introduced by the state transport authorities. The revised process aims to eliminate malpractice and ensure that only skilled drivers receive licences.
Under the new rules, applicants for a four-wheeler driving licence must score at least 60 out of 100 marks in the driving test to qualify. Even a one-mark shortfall will result in failure. Applicants who fail the test will have to wait at least one week before booking another slot for a retest.
Officials said the stricter system has been designed especially for first-time four-wheeler drivers in the state. According to transport and environment department officials, the automated testing mechanism has already been implemented in Patna and Aurangabad in the first phase. Only candidates scoring 60 percent or above are being issued driving licences in these districts.
The government plans to expand the system to seven districts, including Gaya and Chhapra, by July this year. The target is to implement the new testing framework across all 38 districts of Bihar by March 2026.
100 Out of 100 Marks Mandatory for Commercial Vehicle Licence
The transport department has imposed even stricter norms for commercial vehicle drivers due to the higher risk associated with heavy vehicles. Under the new policy, applicants seeking commercial driving licences must secure a perfect score of 100 out of 100. Even minor mistakes during the test will lead to disqualification.
Officials said the move is intended to ensure that only highly skilled and trained drivers operate commercial vehicles, thereby reducing road accidents.
How the New Driving Test Will Work
Bike Test:
- Figure-8 Track: Riders will receive 40 marks for successfully navigating an ‘8’-shaped track without touching the ground with their feet.
- Traffic Signals: Understanding and responding correctly to red, yellow and green signals will carry 20 marks.
- Zebra Crossing: Stopping before the stop line and giving priority to pedestrians will fetch 15 marks.
Car Test:
- Seat Belt Usage: Properly wearing a seat belt will carry 10 marks.
- Hill Driving: Stopping correctly on an incline will earn 5 marks.
- Parallel Parking: Performing proper roadside parallel parking will carry 25 marks.
- Junction Handling: Driving safely through crowded intersections and junctions will carry 25 marks.
- Figure-8 Track: Driving through the ‘8’-shaped track will carry 20 marks.
Four Major Benefits of the New System
According to officials, the new automated testing system is expected to bring several improvements:
- Greater Transparency: Tests will be evaluated through sensors and cameras instead of manual assessment, reducing the possibility of bias.
- Reduced Corruption: The automated system is expected to curb the role of middlemen and eliminate the scope for manipulation.
- Better Driver Selection: The system can detect minor mistakes such as touching track lines, repeatedly placing feet on the ground, or violating traffic signals.
- Improved Road Safety: Authorities believe that issuing licences only to qualified drivers will help reduce road accidents across the state.
