Drive Safe or Lose Your Licence: Govt Launches System to Accumulate Penalty Points for Traffic Violations
In a major push towards improving road safety and reducing traffic fatalities, the Ministry of Road Transport has launched a comprehensive penalty points system for traffic violators across India. This transformative measure, inspired by global best practices, introduces a “demerit and merit” system where negative points could lead to suspension or cancellation of driving licences.
Stricter Penalties for Safer Roads
Under the new system, drivers will accumulate negative points for violations such as overspeeding, jumping red lights, or dangerous driving. Accumulating too many points over time could result in temporary suspension or permanent cancellation of the licence. Conversely, merit points will be awarded for responsible driving and acts of good citizenship on the roads.
This change comes amid alarming statistics — India witnesses over 1.7 lakh road deaths every year. The government believes that combining stricter penalties with modern enforcement technology can act as a powerful deterrent for reckless driving.
Mandatory Driving Tests for Licence Renewal
Drivers seeking to renew their licences before expiration will now be subject to a mandatory driving test — but only if they have committed traffic violations. Currently, early renewal does not require retesting. This new requirement ensures that repeat offenders prove their roadworthiness before regaining the privilege to drive.
Penalties for Unpaid E-Challans
Another key focus is the low recovery rate of e-challans. As of now, only 40% of fines are paid. The new regulation proposes a three-month licence suspension for those who fail to clear challans pending for more than three months. Additionally, if a driver commits three major violations such as red light jumping or rash driving in a year, their licence can also be suspended.
Insurance premiums may also rise for drivers with two unpaid fines in the previous year, further incentivizing timely payments.
State Disparities and AI Enforcement
Challan recovery rates vary widely across states. Delhi lags with a 14% recovery rate, followed by Karnataka (21%), Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh (27%). In contrast, Maharashtra and Haryana perform significantly better, with recovery rates of 62% and 76%, respectively.
To improve enforcement, Delhi has deployed a 360-degree rotatable AI-powered radar interceptor equipped with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras. This system detects overspeeding, mobile phone usage, and seatbelt violations, enabling automated e-challans without human intervention. Integrated with the National Informatics Centre (NIC), it ensures swift action and better monitoring.
Driving Licence Reforms for EVs and Learners
The Ministry is also planning new rules for learners. A graded eligibility system for learner’s licences is on the cards. Additionally, a learner’s licence will now be required for electric vehicles with power up to 1,500 watts and maximum speed of 25 km/h, addressing a growing segment in urban mobility.
Looking Ahead
This points system is expected to be codified into the Motor Vehicles Act after its upcoming amendment. The policy draws from international examples — including countries like Australia, Germany, the UK, and Canada — where such systems have led to improved compliance and fewer accidents.
The plan is the result of extensive consultation with experts, NGOs, and state authorities. With technology, legal reforms, and public accountability forming the backbone of the new approach, the government is determined to make Indian roads safer for all.
