Punjab Drivers To Encounter 2600 Percent Fee Escalation

In Punjab, a stringent policy for those driving without a license has been introduced, leading to an approximately 800 percent surge in the issuance of new driving licenses in the provincial capital. As citizens adhere to the law by obtaining driving licenses, the caretaker government has implemented a substantial increase in the fees for driving licenses, causing financial strain on motorists.

The recent significant surge in driving license fees has affected various categories, with some experiencing astonishing increases of up to 2600 percent. For two-wheelers, the fee has been raised to Rs4900, marking a 791 percent increase compared to the previous fee of Rs60. Car owners are now required to pay Rs11,400 for a 5-year license, whereas the previous fee stood at Rs550.

Read more: Punjab Enforces New Structure For Driving License Fees

Commercial transport drivers face a considerable 2656 percent hike in fees. Additionally, tractor owners encounter a substantial 2100 percent fee increase, rising from Rs450 to Rs9900. The new fee structure became effective on January 17, 2023, and is anticipated to have a significant impact on the finances of Pakistanis who are already grappling with record inflation.