Deadline for driving test rules extended by Kerala government

Kochi: The state government has extended the deadline for effecting new driving license test rules to May 22 even as it directed the motor vehicle department to implement the changes in a step by step manner.

The decision comes as the stay by the High Court on implementing the modified rules, originally directed by the Centre to put in practice by February 1, ended on Monday.

As per the new guidelines on driving test, it has been decided to conduct gradient test and angular reverse parking tests along with ‘H’ track test. Further, the length of iron rod markings for ‘H’ test was reduced so that candidates could take reverse only with the help of mirror glasses.

“The implementation of the new rules has been deferred till May 22. The transport minister has also called up a meet of the driving schools day after tomorrow to discuss the issue. It’s now proposed to make it effective in a phased manner,” said P. M. Shaji, regional transport officer (enforcement), South Zone.

The driving schools have earlier moved the HC challenging the changes to the guidelines on the modalities for driving test.

The transport ministry now plans to implement the new rules in total only after computerised driving license testing tracks are set up in all districts, which is an ongoing process.

“As of now, we’ll include reverse parking tests, but the other changes will be deferred till all the test tracks are modified,” sources said.