Patna: Bihar is set to speed up the process of issuing driving licences from October, with the Transport Department planning to double its monthly capacity from around 50,000 licences to approximately one lakh.
The department plans to increase driving licence test capacity across all 38 districts and has directed District Transport Officers (DTOs) and Motor Vehicle Inspectors (MVIs) to conduct tests within the prescribed schedule.
Under the proposed system, applicants are expected to receive a driving test date within 24 hours.
Test Slot Capacity to Increase
According to a Transport Department official, DTOs have been authorised to increase the quota for driving licence test slots based on local requirements.
The department is reviewing district-wise slot availability and the number of applicants clearing driving tests each day. From October, districts with lower testing capacity are expected to see a 30% to 50% increase in available slots.
At present, daily test slot quotas vary widely across Bihar. Patna and Purnia have a quota of 200 slots each, while Saharsa has 328 slots. Smaller districts such as Sheohar have significantly fewer available slots.
Faster Process for Applicants
The expansion of test slots is expected to reduce waiting periods for applicants seeking driving licences.
With more slots available, applicants may be able to choose test dates and timings more conveniently, reducing repeated visits to transport offices.
The department also expects the increased use of online and time-bound processes to limit the role of intermediaries in the licence application system.
Target of One Lakh Licences a Month
Bihar currently issues around 50,000 driving licences each month. The Transport Department is now targeting an increase to approximately one lakh licences per month.
The proposed changes are expected to take effect from October, following an assessment of testing capacity and slot requirements across districts.
The department is continuing to review district-level data before finalising the revised slot quotas.
