Kathmandu, February 18
The government is set to make a commercial driver’s license (CDL) mandatory for public transport and school bus drivers. The decision comes as concerns rise over driver conduct in vehicles carrying multiple passengers.
The Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport has included this provision in the draft of the 2024 Transport Bill, which aims to replace the existing 1992 Transport Management Act— which currently lacks any mention of a CDL.
The move follows a surge in school bus accidents, including two major incidents in Kathmandu last week that resulted in student and teacher fatalities. Given the frequent complaints of driver negligence in public and school bus accidents, the government aims to enforce greater responsibility among drivers.
New licensing regulations
According to Rajeev Pokhrel, Director General of the Department of Transport Management, professional drivers need to be more accountable, which is why the new law mandates a specialized CDL.
The ministry has made the draft bill public for stakeholder feedback, allowing a 15-day period for comments before finalisation.
Under the proposed law:
- Driving without a valid license will be prohibited, and vehicle owners will not be allowed to let unlicensed individuals operate their vehicles.
- Provinces may introduce exceptions allowing unlicensed individuals to drive for training purposes.
- Those seeking a CDL must obtain it from a designated provincial authority.
Health and legal restrictions on CDL issuance
A CDL will not be granted to individuals with:
- A history of mental or physical health issues (such as epilepsy, dizziness, or loss of consciousness).
- Records of traffic rule violations, substance abuse, or involvement in criminal or anti-social activities.
Current public transport drivers will have their existing licenses automatically converted into CDLs once the law takes effect. They will also be required to undergo annual health check-ups and carry proof of medical clearance.
Age limit increases for driving various vehicles
The bill also proposes raising the minimum driving age:
- Large vehicles: Increased from 21 to 23 years (with two years of prior small vehicle experience).
- Medium and small four-wheelers: Increased from 18 to 21 years.
- Two-wheelers: Increased from 16 to 18 years.
Additionally, applicants must have completed at least the eighth grade. Individuals with hearing impairments or significant limb disabilities will be ineligible for a CDL.
Drivers of large and medium public transport vehicles will not be issued licenses after the age of 60. However, these restrictions will not apply to private vehicle drivers.
License validity extended to 10 years
The bill proposes extending the license validity period from five to ten years. Drivers will be required to renew their licenses every 10 years, with a 90-day grace period for renewal. A medical fitness certificate will be mandatory for renewal.
In cases where a driver causes a fatal accident and faces legal charges, their license will be suspended until a court ruling is issued. If found guilty, the license will be permanently revoked.
