To address the surge in driving licence applications, Kerala's Transport Department will raise daily driving test slots to 50 and implement facial recognition technology for learner's tests.
Doha, Qatar Jul 27, 2026 ALN: In response to a notable increase in driving licence applications from individuals aged 18 and above, the Kerala Transport Commissioner has announced a series of measures aimed at improving the efficiency and accessibility of the driving test process. In a circular issued recently, the Commissioner has mandated that the number of daily driving test slots be increased to 50. This strategic move is accompanied by the introduction of a facial recognition feature for learner's licence tests conducted via mobile devices, indicating a significant shift towards leveraging technology in the licensing process. These measures are set to take effect immediately, addressing the urgent needs of a growing demographic seeking driving licences.
The timing of this initiative is particularly significant as it coincides with the seasonal surge of students eager to obtain their driving licences following the completion of their Plus Two examinations. Many students are keen to secure their driving credentials before transitioning to higher education institutions, which often require mobility for commuting purposes. This seasonal influx has prompted the Commissioner to direct the department to implement special measures over the next three months, aimed at maximizing testing capacity, reducing waiting periods, and facilitating the timely issuance of driving licences to eligible applicants.
Under the revised arrangement, each Regional Transport Office (RTO) will conduct driving tests for up to 50 candidates daily. This includes 28 fresh applicants, 20 candidates who require re-tests, and two applicants under specific quotas related to foreign employment, out-of-state employment, or higher education. The order specifies that driving tests will be conducted five days a week during this three-month period, reinforcing the department's commitment to enhancing service delivery during peak application times.
This decision represents a partial rollback of a previous reduction in daily test slots that was introduced in 2025. Originally, RTOs had the capacity to conduct tests for up to 60 candidates daily, but this was later reduced to 40, leading to widespread criticism from the public and stakeholders. The reduction had triggered significant delays in licence issuance and a growing backlog of applicants, with many individuals expressing frustration over the extended waiting times. The increase to 50 slots per day is anticipated to alleviate some of this pressure, providing a more manageable flow of applicants through the testing process.
The circular also stipulates that the number of test batches scheduled each working day should align with the availability of Motor Vehicle Inspectors (MVIs) responsible for conducting the tests. However, it stresses that the increase in slots should not compromise the quality, transparency, safety, or fairness of the driving tests. This emphasis on maintaining high standards is crucial, as the integrity of the testing process directly impacts road safety and the overall effectiveness of the licensing system.
In addition to expanding test slots, the order lays out a clear protocol for deploying MVIs when designated officers are unavailable, ensuring that the mandatory five-day testing schedule remains intact. This proactive approach aims to prevent disruptions in service delivery, which can often occur due to staffing shortages or unforeseen circumstances.
Another notable aspect of the new measures is the revamping of learner's licence tests through the introduction of facial recognition-based authentication. This innovative feature will be implemented for candidates taking the examination on mobile phones within the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) examination halls. The rollout of this technology is expected to streamline the process and enhance the security of the testing environment. The technical support team is tasked with activating this feature in the Sarathi application, which is a critical component of the licensing process, and officers have been directed to ensure the necessary arrangements are made for its implementation.
Transport Commissioner Nagaraju Chakilam provided insight into the rationale behind these changes, noting that similar measures were previously adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized that this time, the implementation will occur within a controlled environment, specifically within MVD exam halls under proper invigilation. This approach aims to expand the number of learner's licence batches while simultaneously making the procedure less cumbersome for applicants.
The Transport Department has committed to periodically reviewing the effectiveness of these new measures. The continuation or modification of these initiatives will depend on whether specific service benchmarks are met. These benchmarks include ensuring that fresh driving test slots are made available within 30 days of booking, re-test slots within eight days, and learner's licence test slots within three days. This performance-based approach reflects the department's dedication to accountability and continuous improvement in service delivery.
To ensure the successful implementation of these directives, Deputy Transport Commissioners have been assigned the responsibility of closely monitoring the execution of these measures within their respective jurisdictions. This oversight is crucial for identifying any challenges that may arise and for making necessary adjustments to enhance the overall efficiency of the driving licence application and testing process.
The implications of these changes are significant for both the applicants and the broader community. By increasing the number of available test slots and introducing advanced technology for authentication, the Kerala Transport Department is taking proactive steps to address the backlog of applications and improve the overall experience for new drivers. This initiative not only facilitates greater access to driving licences but also underscores the importance of maintaining high standards in road safety and ensuring that new drivers are adequately prepared for the responsibilities that come with operating a vehicle.
In conclusion, the Kerala Transport Commissioner’s recent measures to increase daily driving test slots and implement facial recognition technology represent a thoughtful response to a pressing need within the community. As these changes take effect, stakeholders will be closely monitoring their impact on the licensing process, with the hope that they will lead to a more efficient and user-friendly experience for all applicants.
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