Motor Vehicles Act: Section 14 – Currency of licences to drive motor vehicles.

A learner’s license issued under this Act shall, subject to the other provisions of this Act, be effective for a period of six months from the date of issue of the license.

A driving license issued or renewed under this Act shall—

1. in the case of a license to drive a transport vehicle, be effective for a period of three years:
   Provided that in the case of license to drive a transport vehicle carrying goods of dangerous or hazardous nature be effective for a period of one year and renewal thereof shall be subject to the condition that the driver undergoes one day refresher course of the prescribed syllabus; and
2. in the case of any other license—
   1. if the person obtaining the license, either originally or on renewal thereof, has not attained the age of fifty years on the date of issue or, as the case may be, renewal thereof—
      1. be effective for a period of twenty years from the date of such issue or renewal; or
      2. until the date on which such person attains the age of fifty years, whichever is earlier;
   2. if the person referred to in sub-clause (i), has attained the age of fifty years on the date of issue or as the case may be, renewal thereof, be effective, on payment of such fee as may be prescribed, for a period of five years from the date of such issue or renewal:
      Provided that every driving license shall, notwithstanding its expiry under this sub-section continue to be effective for a period of thirty days from such expiry.

Simplified Explanation

Section 14 of the Motor Vehicles Act specifies the validity period or currency of different types of driving licences in India. It outlines how long a licence remains valid and when it needs to be renewed. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the section:

Key Points of Section 14:

1. Validity of Non-Transport Vehicle Licences:
   • For non-transport vehicles (vehicles used for personal purposes, such as cars or motorcycles):
     • If the licence holder is below 50 years of age, the licence is valid for 20 years from the date of issue or until the licence holder turns 50 years old, whichever is earlier.
     • If the licence holder is 50 years or older, the licence is valid for 5 years from the date of issue or renewal.
2. Validity of Transport Vehicle Licences:
   • For transport vehicles (vehicles used for commercial purposes, such as trucks, buses, and taxis):
     • The licence is valid for 3 years from the date of issue or renewal. This shorter validity period is due to the more demanding nature of operating transport vehicles, which requires frequent checks on the driver’s fitness and competence.
3. Medical Fitness for Transport Vehicle Licences:
   • Transport vehicle licence holders are required to submit a medical certificate certifying their physical fitness to drive these vehicles. This certificate must be renewed every time the licence is renewed.
   • For drivers over 50 years old, the licence is valid for only 1 year, and medical fitness must be certified annually to ensure the driver is capable of safely handling a transport vehicle.
4. Licences Issued for Specific Periods:
   • Some licences may be issued for a shorter period than the standard term if the licensing authority deems it necessary based on the applicant’s medical condition or other factors.
   • The licensing authority can limit the validity of the licence in certain cases where it is deemed safer or more appropriate to monitor the driver more closely.
5. Renewal of Licence:
   • A driving licence can be renewed at any time before its expiry or within a grace period after it has expired. However, driving with an expired licence is illegal and can result in fines or penalties.
   • The renewal process typically involves submitting an application, undergoing any necessary tests or medical evaluations, and paying the applicable fees.

Purpose of Section 14:

• Periodic Review of Fitness: The shorter validity period for transport vehicle licences ensures that drivers of commercial vehicles are regularly evaluated for their physical and mental fitness to drive, ensuring road safety.
• Standard Validity Period: This section ensures that drivers of non-transport vehicles are issued licences for a sufficient period (20 years for younger drivers) but are required to renew more frequently as they age (5 years after 50), ensuring that their driving competence is regularly reviewed.
• Renewal Process: By specifying validity periods and renewal timelines, this section ensures that all drivers periodically undergo necessary checks, contributing to road safety and compliance with the law.

Conclusion:

Section 14 establishes the validity period of driving licences for both personal and commercial vehicles. For non-transport vehicles, licences can last up to 20 years, while transport vehicle licences are valid for 3 years, with more frequent renewals required as drivers age or if health conditions warrant it. Regular renewal ensures that drivers remain competent and fit to drive.