Driving Licence Applicants In Maharashtra Must Submit Domicile Certificate From August 1

The Maharashtra government will make a domicile certificate mandatory for obtaining a driving licence from August 1, 2026, as part of a new policy aimed at streamlining the licensing process and strengthening applicant verification. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced the decision in the state legislative assembly on Tuesday, stating that the revised rules are awaiting final legal approval before being implemented. Addressing the Assembly during the Question Hour, Sarnaik said the proposal for the new driving licence regulations has already been forwarded to the Law and Judiciary Department for approval.

Once the department grants the necessary clearance, the revised rules will come into effect, making proof of domicile a compulsory requirement for all new driving licence applicants in Maharashtra. The minister said the move is intended to improve the efficiency and transparency of the licensing process. While existing procedures already require applicants to submit identity and address proof, the addition of a domicile certificate is expected to help authorities verify long-term residency and strengthen the state's record-keeping system.

The announcement marks a significant policy change for individuals seeking driving licences in Maharashtra. Applicants will now be required to obtain a domicile certificate from the competent authority before applying for a licence, beginning August 1, 2026. The government has not yet released detailed implementation guidelines or clarified whether any exemptions will apply in specific cases. Apart from the changes to the licensing process, Sarnaik also addressed the issue of unauthorised bike taxi services operating across the state. Responding to a question raised by MLA Dilip Lande, the minister said the government is taking action against illegal bike taxi operators while simultaneously working on a comprehensive regulatory framework for the sector.

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According to the minister, the proposed framework aims to legalise and regulate bike taxi services in Maharashtra. He said a structured policy would help generate additional revenue for the state government while also creating employment opportunities for young people. The government is expected to formulate rules governing licensing, safety standards and operational norms for bike taxi operators. Bike taxi services have become increasingly popular in several Indian cities because they provide affordable and convenient last-mile connectivity. However, in Maharashtra, the sector has faced legal uncertainty, with authorities periodically taking action against operators running services without formal approval or permits.

The government's dual approach—strengthening driving licence regulations while exploring the legalisation of bike taxis—reflects broader efforts to modernise the state's transport sector. Officials believe improved verification procedures for licence applicants and a regulated bike taxi ecosystem could enhance road safety, improve compliance and support organised urban mobility. The proposal will take effect only after receiving approval from the Law and Judiciary Department. Once implemented, the new rules are expected to impact all fresh driving licence applications submitted in Maharashtra from August 1, 2026, while the government continues to develop detailed regulations for the state's bike taxi industry.

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