New Domicile Requirement for Driving Licences
Starting August 1, 2025, the Maharashtra government will mandate domicile proof for all new driving licence applications. The decision, announced by Transport Minister Deepak Kesarkar, aims to ensure that only state residents obtain licences, curbing the practice of non-residents acquiring them from other states. Applicants must provide a valid domicile certificate or a 15-year residence proof, such as a ration card, voter ID, or Aadhaar card. Existing licences remain valid; the rule applies only to new applications.
Bike Taxi Roadmap for 2026
In a separate move, the state unveiled a bike taxi roadmap for 2026. The plan includes a pilot project in Pune and Mumbai, with 5,000 licensed bike taxis operating by March 2026. Operators must meet safety standards, including GPS tracking and helmet provision for passengers. The roadmap follows a 2024 Supreme Court directive to regulate bike taxis, which have grown rapidly through aggregators like Uber and Ola.
Kesarkar stated, "The domicile proof rule will streamline licence issuance and prevent misuse. The bike taxi roadmap balances innovation with passenger safety." The transport department will accept public feedback on the roadmap until August 15, 2025.
Impact on Residents and Aggregators
The domicile requirement may affect migrants and students who often apply for licences in Maharashtra. However, officials argue it will reduce fraud and ensure accountability. For bike taxis, aggregators must register with the state and comply with fare caps set by the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules. The roadmap also proposes a digital platform to monitor trips and driver verification.
Industry experts estimate over 1 lakh unregulated bike taxis operate in Maharashtra. The new rules aim to bring them under a legal framework, with penalties for non-compliance starting January 1, 2027.
