Maharashtra Makes Marathi Mandatory for Commercial Passenger Drivers

The Maharashtra government has made a working knowledge of the Marathi language mandatory for commercial passenger vehicle drivers operating across Maharashtra, following an official amendment to the state's motor vehicle regulations in Mumbai.

The requirement comes under the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Rules, 2026. As part of the regulatory change, the government amended sub-rule (4) of Rule 4 of the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, inserting the phrase "and working knowledge of Marathi language" directly after the word "antecedents".

The mandate applies to drivers and permit holders associated with auto-rickshaws, traditional taxis, and app-based motor cabs that are fitted with electronic meters operating within the state.

Under the newly amended rules, licensing authorities have been given specific provisions to take regulatory action against drivers who fail to meet the language requirement.

Depending on the circumstances and any continued non-compliance by the operator, the authorisation linked to a driver's licence can be suspended for up to three months and subsequently cancelled.