Introduction

In recent news, the licensing centers across Punjab have witnessed a surge in daily visitors amid a stringent crackdown on unlicensed motorists, reflecting the government's emphasis on ensuring compliance with driving regulations in the country's most populous region.

The Driving License Fee Hike

As part of the government's mandate to enforce the necessity of carrying a valid driving license while operating vehicles, authorities have unveiled a substantial increase in driving license fees, set to take effect shortly.

A social media announcement from the Lahore Traffic Police highlighted that the interim Punjab government has decided to raise the driving license fee by an unprecedented 1500 percent. The revision entails a staggering shift from the previous fee of Rs60 to the newly proposed Rs1000.


According to the Lahore Traffic Police, individuals can continue applying for licenses at the old fee until December 31. However, the revised rates are slated to come into effect from January 1, 2024, mandating a payment of Rs 1,000 for obtaining a driving license.

Public Reaction and Criticism

In the wake of this significant fee hike, the provincial government faced vehement criticism across social media platforms. Many expressed their dismay over the decision, labeling it as drastic and foreseeing potential deterrent effects on license applications.

The public outcry predominantly centered on concerns that such a substantial increase could discourage individuals from pursuing legal licensing, thereby adversely impacting road safety measures.

Penalties for Learner's Permit Holders

In a parallel move, the Lahore Traffic Police also announced escalated penalties for holders of learner's permits. While indicating that cases won't be registered against such individuals, they outlined an imposition of a Rs 2,000 fine on learner's permit holders.

This augmentation in penalties adds another layer of concern among aspiring drivers, prompting discussions about its potential impact on encouraging lawful driving practices among learners.