Driving Licence Rules 2026: Maharashtra Makes Domicile Certificate Mandatory From August 1
The Maharashtra government will make a domicile certificate mandatory for obtaining a driving licence starting August 1, 2026. The policy revision aims to streamline the licensing process, verify residential status, and regulate the growing commercial transport sector across the state.
The Maharashtra government will make a domicile certificate mandatory for obtaining a driving licence starting August 1, 2026. The policy revision aims to streamline the licensing process, verify residential status, and regulate the growing commercial transport sector across the state. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced the decision in the State Legislative Assembly on Tuesday during the ongoing monsoon session. He informed the house that the detailed proposal outlining the new rules has been forwarded to the Law and Judiciary Department for structural approval and will be enacted as soon as the final clearance is received.
The legislative announcement came during Question Hour, following concerns raised by Shiv Sena MLA Dilip Lande regarding commuter safety and the proliferation of unauthorized app-based transport operators. Lande highlighted risks to students and women passengers from operators running commercial transport businesses without local accountability or appropriate documentation. Maharashtra Government Mandates Marathi Teaching in Classes 1-10; Non-Compliant Schools Face INR 1 Lakh Fine.
"Individuals from other states who come to Maharashtra to start transport businesses illegally will no longer be tolerated," Sarnaik said during his address to the assembly. "We have decided that, henceforth, only those possessing a Maharashtra Domicile Certificate will be granted permits for such transport services." Beyond standard driving licences, the policy will strictly impact commercial permits, specifically targets illegal commercial operators, and shapes the state's upcoming regulatory framework to legalize and govern app-based bike taxis. According to state data, enforcement agencies penalized over 1,000 illegal transport vehicles between April 2025 and May 2026, collecting over ₹18.5 lakh in fines. Maharashtra Government Issues Guidelines for Govt Officers and Employees on Use of Social Media To Avoid Spread of False Information.
To qualify for a Maharashtra domicile certificate under existing state regulations, an individual must have continuously resided in the state for a minimum of 15 years. Officials stated that integrating this mandate into the transport database will establish clear operational accountability, enhance state revenue tracking, and prioritize employment opportunities for local youth in the logistics and ride-hailing sectors.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 07, 2026 02:27 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
