Maharashtra Gives Auto, Taxi Drivers One-Month Extension To Pass Marathi Test

Autorickshaw and taxi drivers in Mumbai and across Maharashtra who fail to demonstrate a working knowledge of Marathi during checks starting August 18 will be granted a one-month extension to learn the language and clear a test, state transport department officials said.

Under the amended Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, drivers who fail the language assessment after the extension period will face a three-month suspension of their driving licences. A repeat violation will result in permanent licence cancellation.

Regional Transport Office (RTO) officials will begin the language checks on August 18 as planned. Drivers unable to converse in Marathi will receive notices giving them one month to retake and pass the test before punitive actions are initiated.

The relief comes amid large crowds at RTO facilities across the state. As of Friday, 125,000 of the 1.5 million commercial passenger vehicle drivers in Maharashtra had appeared for the Marathi test. Bhola Singh, a taxi driver from Wadala, said drivers had waited eight to ten hours for their turn, with many turned away in the evening due to long queues.

The state government had previously set August 15 as the deadline for drivers to comply with the language mandate, which was first announced in April. Transport unions, RTOs, and political organisations have since conducted training sessions and assessments across Mumbai.

On August 12, State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik stated that working knowledge of Marathi is required for drivers of passenger transport vehicles to ensure effective communication with commuters.

The regulatory amendments apply to permit holders and drivers of autorickshaws, taxis, and app-based motor cabs fitted with electronic meters, empowering licensing authorities to penalise non-compliance after recording reasons in writing.