Karnataka May Lower Driving License Age in 2025 – What Students Should Know

The proposed License Age Relaxation Karnataka policy has sparked major attention among students and young commuters across the state. In 2025, the Karnataka government is reviewing a proposal to reduce the minimum age for obtaining a driving license for gearless two-wheelers from 18 to 16 years. This initiative is primarily aimed at improving student mobility and addressing the rising demand for safe, independent transportation among college and pre-university students.

If approved, this would make Karnataka the first state in India to officially permit 16-year-olds to ride low-speed electric and gearless petrol two-wheelers. The idea is to enhance youth transport flexibility while maintaining a strict regulatory framework around safety and training.

Key Highlights of the Proposed License Rule Change

The License Age Relaxation Karnataka framework is currently in its draft stage and undergoing stakeholder consultations. Here are the proposed terms under the new license rules:

• Minimum age lowered to 16 years for non-geared two-wheelers up to 100cc or 50 km/h max speed

• Mandatory passing of a traffic rules & safety course conducted by approved driving schools

• Parental consent required for applicants below 18

• A special learner’s license category proposed for the 16–18 age group

• Strict helmet use and insurance verification before license approval

These license rules are being discussed under the Karnataka Road Safety Authority and Transport Department, with pilot implementation expected in select districts later this year.

Reasons Behind the Youth Transport Policy Shift

The government’s move to propose the License Age Relaxation Karnataka is based on multiple factors influencing today’s student lifestyle and transport needs. Some of the key motivations include:

• A surge in demand for safe and affordable youth transport

• Overcrowding in college bus systems and public transport

• Increased adoption of electric two-wheelers with lower speeds

• Need to instill road safety awareness early among teenagers

• Encouraging green mobility habits among the younger generation

By enabling supervised access to two-wheelers at an earlier age, the government aims to balance convenience and caution under this license rules proposal.

Institutions and Districts Supporting the Proposal

Several colleges and local administrations have expressed support for the License Age Relaxation Karnataka model. Districts currently being considered for the pilot rollout include:

The youth transport impact is expected to be significant, especially in areas where public transit isn’t reliably available for students.

Safety Regulations and Parental Oversight

As part of the License Age Relaxation Karnataka proposal, the government plans to introduce strict conditions to ensure safety and accountability. These include:

• Digital verification of parental approval through Aadhaar-linked consent

• Limitations on driving hours for minors (e.g., no riding after 8:00 PM)

• Real-time student tracking via app-based vehicle tagging

• Mandatory helmets with ISI certification

• Higher penalties for any road rule violation by underage riders

These license rules aim to ensure that if the age is lowered, safety measures are simultaneously upgraded to maintain road discipline.

FAQs

What is the License Age Relaxation Karnataka policy?

The License Age Relaxation Karnataka is a 2025 proposal to allow 16-year-olds to legally obtain licenses for low-speed, non-geared two-wheelers under a regulated framework.

Is the new driving age officially approved?

Not yet. The license rules are in proposal stage and undergoing review by the Karnataka Road Safety Authority and education departments.

Will students need training before getting a license?

Yes, under the License Age Relaxation Karnataka plan, students must pass a traffic safety and vehicle handling course at an accredited driving school.

Are electric scooters included under the youth transport policy?

Yes, most electric scooters under 50 km/h fall within the youth transport license category being proposed.

When will the rule be implemented?

If approved, the license rules for 16-year-olds are expected to roll out as a pilot in select districts by late 2025.

Click here to know more.