Ahmedabad: The Gujarat government today implemented a new faceless system that allows individuals to take their learner’s driving licence test online from the comfort of their homes or offices. According to the state transport department, applicants with Aadhaar cards linked to their mobile numbers will no longer need to visit regional transport offices (RTOs) or authorised centres to take the test.

While the existing system of appearing for the test at polytechnic institutes or ITIs will remain available for now, officials mentioned that RTOs may discontinue in-person testing in the future based on public preference.

The move follows extensive trials to ensure the system’s reliability. The Union government has mandated that the online test be made compulsory, enabling applicants to take it from anywhere. Face-recognition technology will be used for biometric verification through Aadhaar data. However, the system will not capture audio, thereby preventing dictated answers from being accepted.

Steps to take the online learner’s licence test:

1. Apply online for a learner’s licence on the Sarathi portal and pay the required fees.

2. Upon successful application, an application number and password will be generated.

3. Visit https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in.

4. Enter your application number, date of birth, and password.

5. Navigate to the ‘Learner Licence’ menu and click on ‘Online Learners’ License Test (STALL)’.

6. Begin the test from the comfort of your home or office.

In 2024, the government also relaxed the pass criteria. Previously, candidates had to answer at least 11 out of 15 questions correctly. Now, getting 9 correct answers is sufficient to pass. Officials stated that while 19 other states have already adopted the system, Gujarat had delayed its implementation to ensure it was foolproof. DeshGujarat