Punjab Approves Special Motorcycle Permits for Teenagers Aged 16-18
The Punjab government has officially approved a new policy allowing teenagers aged 16 to 18 to legally ride motorcycles under a special permit system, replacing the requirement for a full driving license. This decision was finalized during a provincial cabinet meeting, where authorities endorsed amendments to the Punjab Motor Vehicle Ordinance 1965 and the Punjab Motor Vehicle Rules 1969. The resulting Punjab Motor Vehicle (Amendment) Act 2026 establishes a formal legal framework for these restricted permits. Officials aim to bring thousands of underage riders into a monitored legal structure, addressing both daily transportation needs for students in areas with limited public transport and public safety concerns. The policy seeks to reduce unsafe, unregulated riding practices and improve road discipline by enhancing accountability and monitoring mechanisms. While the legislative amendments have been endorsed, transport and licensing departments are currently preparing procedural details. The system is expected to become operational after official notifications are issued, with further implementation specifics, including permit conditions and enforcement measures, to be announced in the coming weeks. This initiative marks a significant shift in balancing youth mobility with traffic regulation.
Wire timeline
Punjab Approves Special Motorcycle Permits for Teenagers Aged 16-18
The Punjab government has officially approved a new policy allowing teenagers aged 16 to 18 to legally ride motorcycles under a special permit system, replacing the requirement for a full driving license. This decision was finalized during a provincial cabinet meeting, where authorities endorsed amendments to the Punjab Motor Vehicle Ordinance 1965 and the Punjab Motor Vehicle Rules 1969. The resulting Punjab Motor Vehicle (Amendment) Act 2026 establishes a formal legal framework for these restricted permits. Officials aim to bring thousands of underage riders into a monitored legal structure, addressing both daily transportation needs for students in areas with limited public transport and public safety concerns. The policy seeks to reduce unsafe, unregulated riding practices and improve road discipline by enhancing accountability and monitoring mechanisms. While the legislative amendments have been endorsed, transport and licensing departments are currently preparing procedural details. The system is expected to become operational after official notifications are issued, with further implementation specifics, including permit conditions and enforcement measures, to be announced in the coming weeks. This initiative marks a significant shift in balancing youth mobility with traffic regulation.
Daily Times