The Punjab government has taken a significant step to regulate teenage driving and enhance road safety by allowing youngsters aged 16 to 18 years to obtain juvenile driving permits for motorcycles and scooties. The announcement was made by City Traffic Police spokesman Muhammad Adnan, who outlined the new policy's details.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
Under the new policy, applicants between 16 and 18 years of age are eligible for a juvenile driving permit, provided they meet specific conditions. The applicant must submit a written consent affidavit from a parent or guardian, possess a Smart Card or NADRA-issued B-Form, and provide the CNIC of the parent or guardian. Additionally, the applicant must pass a traffic sign test, and the parent or guardian is required to accompany the candidate to the licensing centre.
Permit Specifications and Fees
The permit allows juveniles to ride motorcycles up to 125cc. The fee for issuance is set at Rs1,000 for applicants aged 16 to 17 years, while candidates between 17 and 18 years pay Rs500. This tiered fee structure aims to encourage early compliance and responsible driving habits.
Impact on Road Safety and Youth
The initiative is viewed as a crucial move to bring teenage riders under a legal framework, ensuring parental supervision and promoting safer driving practices among youth. By formalizing the process, authorities hope to reduce accidents and instill a culture of responsibility from a young age.
