New driving licence rules in Telangana: 3-hour test, 6 modules before learner’s licence

Hyderabad: In a major move to improve road safety and curb rising fatalities, the Transport Department is set to introduce a stricter, multi-layered process for obtaining a driving licence.

Acting on directives from the Supreme Court, the new system will make an online road safety awareness test mandatory even before applying for a learner’s licence (LLR).

7,500 lives lost every year in Telangana

India witnesses nearly 1.7 lakh deaths annually due to road accidents.

In Telangana alone, around 7,500 people lose their lives every year, while nearly 28,000 sustain injuries. Officials say reckless driving, over speeding, and lack of awareness remain the primary causes.

Three-stage licensing system

At present, obtaining a driving licence involves two stages — the learner’s licence test and the permanent driving test.

The new system will introduce a third stage:

Online Road Safety Awareness Test (New)

Learner’s Licence (LLR) Test

Permanent Driving Licence Test

From early April, applicants must first clear the online safety test before applying for an LLR.

Six modules, three hours

The road safety test will include six modules, each lasting 30 minutes, totalling three hours.

Training-based modules with short assessments

Can be taken from home or office using a camera-enabled device

Option to appear from driving school centres

After completion, candidates will receive a unique certificate number, which is mandatory for the LLR application.

Focus on real-life driving risks

The modules will feature real-life accident scenarios and common driving errors, including:

- Safe road practices

- Mirror usage

- Overtaking techniques

- Causes of accidents

- Impact on victims and families

Officials say this awareness-driven approach will help new drivers avoid critical mistakes.

Not difficult, but crucial

Authorities clarified that the test will be easy to pass, but essential in building responsible driving behaviour among applicants.

Road bloodshed: A grim snapshot

Recent data highlights the alarming trend of road accidents in Telangana:

Total Road Accidents:

2024: 25,986

2025: 27,352

Deaths:

2024: 7,949

2025: 7,545

Despite a slight drop in fatalities, the overall number of accidents has increased, raising serious concerns among authorities.

Licence data snapshot

Learner’s Licences issued:

2023–24: 7.82 lakh

2024–25: 8.92 lakh

Permanent Licences issued:

2023–24: 4.71 lakh

2024–25: 4.68 lakh

Aim: Reduce Road Accidents

“With accidents continuing to claim thousands of lives, the new system will significantly improve awareness and reduce fatalities. While the process of obtaining a licence may become more rigorous, the long-term impact on road safety is expected to be substantial,” said a senior RTA official.