The Lahore Traffic Police has notified the public of a substantial increase in the driving license fee for both cars and motorcycles, as mandated by the caretaker Punjab government. As per an official announcement on X, the fee for acquiring a driver's license has surged by an astonishing 1566%, escalating from Rs. 60 to Rs. 1000. While citizens are granted time until December 31 to obtain their licenses at the current rate, starting January 1, 2024, the revised fee of Rs. 1000 will come into effect.
This decision by the provincial government has sparked widespread criticism on social media. Many netizens argue that the considerable fee hike appears disproportionate, especially at a time when motorists are increasingly adhering to traffic regulations. Concerns have been raised that such a sudden increase may discourage responsible driving practices, unfairly burdening law-abiding citizens actively contributing to road safety.
Previously, the city traffic police had also raised fines for learner's permit holders. Although the police clarified that no cases would be registered against learner's permit holders, they would face a fine of Rs. 2000.