CM Maryam Nawaz approves smart cards, motorcycle licenses for youth

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has decided to issue smart cards and motorcycle driving licenses to 16-year-olds.

Chief Minister has introduced people-friendly policy in the Punjab, under which 16-year-old youth will now be able to obtain smart cards and motorcycle driving licenses on a regular basis. The aim of this new policy is to provide legal avenues for underage motorcyclists instead of taking strict action against them. On the other hand, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has stopped the arrest of underage students for violating traffic rules.

The Chief Minister of Punjab said that parents, rather than young students, should play a role in enforcing traffic rules. Traffic rules are made to protect the lives of citizens, and habits will have to change for their own safety.

As per details, it should be noted that before this policy, underage motorcycle riders in Punjab faced numerous problems, including confiscation of motorcycles, parents being called to the police station to be warned, heavy fines and challans, and arrest of children for repeated violations.

These measures caused severe anxiety among citizens, especially among families who rely on motorcycles for daily travel.

Eligibility to obtain a driving license

To obtain a motorcycle license, the applicant must be at least 16 years old, be a resident of Punjab, have basic motorcycle riding skills, have the required documents, and after the learner period, a basic driving test will be taken, which must be passed.

Required Documents

• To obtain a motorcycle license, it is also necessary to have a copy of the father’s identity card, a B form issued by NADRA to verify identity and guardianship.
• For a 16-year-old candidate, the required documents include two attested passport-sized photographs, attested by a school teacher, gazette officer or authorized official.
• School or college card, identity card and medical fitness certificate for easy verification of student status, if requested. Consent of parent or guardian.

This new system is being considered a major step forward by the Punjab government in facilitating youth and positively improving the enforcement of traffic laws.