Surat: The Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Surat is likely to make its AI-enabled driving test track fully operational next week, with the launch expected around May 12 or 13 after the completion of software integration work.

Ahead of the rollout, the RTO has been conducting daily trial runs of the AI-based testing system alongside the existing driving test track. Around 1,000 driving tests for two-wheelers and four-wheelers have already been carried out during the trial phase.

It is learnt that the company managing the AI system submitted the trial data to the department for verification. After cross-checking the results, the department gave its approval to operationalise the AI-powered driving test track at the Surat RTO.

The CCTV network required for the automated testing system has already been installed, and repair work on the driving track has also been completed. However, integration with the vehicle software system is still pending and is expected to be finished within the next two to four days. Once the software connectivity process is completed, the AI-enabled track is expected to begin full operations next week.

The new system is expected to significantly reduce waiting periods for driving tests, especially for two-wheeler applicants. Currently, applicants face waiting times of nearly a month for driving tests. With the addition of a second two-wheeler testing track under the AI system, tests will be conducted simultaneously on two tracks, helping clear the backlog faster and reducing waiting time.