Punjab begins issuing driving permits to teenage riders aged 16 to 18

RAWALPINDI: Traffic police in Rawalpindi and Murree have started issuing juvenile driving permits to teenagers between 16 and 18 years of age under a Punjab government initiative aimed at facilitating young riders.

Chief Traffic Officer Rawalpindi Farhan Aslam said permits were now being issued to boys and girls from the age of 16 with the consent of their parents. He said the permit would apply only to motorcycles and would allow holders to ride a motorcycle or scooter of up to 125cc.

Highlighting the conditions attached to the facility, the CTO said helmet use would remain compulsory even for permit holders. He added that the permit could be withdrawn in cases of serious or repeated traffic violations.

“Wearing a helmet will be mandatory even when driving with a driving permit,” CTO said and added: “Juvenile driving permits will be cancelled for serious and multiple traffic violations”.

Fee and requirements

A police spokesman said the annual fee for a juvenile driving permit would be Rs500 and Rs1,000. He added that applicants would need to present either a smart card or a B-form to obtain the permit.

According to the spokesman, applicants will also have to undergo traffic signs and road tests. Those who successfully clear both assessments will be issued the permit on the spot.

Murree rollout

The City Traffic Police Murree has also launched the same facility for young people aged 16 to 18, describing it as part of Punjab’s effort to provide safe, responsible and legal driving access to youth. A police spokesman said the programme had been initiated in line with the directions of DIG Traffic Punjab and was being implemented under the supervision of CTO Murree Munir Ahmed Hashmi.

Murree traffic police urged students, parents and young people to make use of the facility by approaching the designated licensing centres. The department said obtaining a permit would help encourage adherence to traffic rules and strengthen responsible driving habits among the youth.

The City Traffic Police Murree also warned that riding a motorcycle without a permit or licence remained a violation of the law. The spokesman said members of the public, particularly young riders, should comply with traffic regulations to help protect lives and property and complete the legal requirements needed to obtain a juvenile driving permit.