Simple explanation:
The Punjab Assembly has moved closer to changing traffic laws. A new bill allows 16-year-olds to legally ride motorcycles under a special permit system. The goal is safer roads and fewer illegal riders.
What the new bill is about
The Punjab Assembly’s Standing Committee on Interior has approved the Motor Vehicles Amendment Bill 2026. This bill brings an important change to motorcycle laws in the province.
If the bill becomes law, teenagers who are 16 years old will be allowed to ride motorcycles legally. For this, a Juvenile Driving Permit will be introduced. This permit will apply to riders between 16 and 18 years of age.
Right now, many teenagers ride motorcycles without any license. This creates safety risks for them and for others on the road. The new law aims to fix this problem by giving young riders a legal path, along with rules and safety conditions.
Juvenile Driving Permit explained
Under the proposed system, the licensing authority will issue a special permit for underage riders. This permit will come with clear conditions, such as supervision and safety rules. Authorities believe this will help control reckless driving and reduce accidents involving minors.
The bill also suggests updates to the Motor Vehicles Ordinance 1965 to match modern traffic needs.
Key points of the Motor Vehicles Amendment Bill 2026
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum age to ride | 16 years |
| Permit name | Juvenile Driving Permit |
| Age group covered | 16 to 18 years |
| Main goal | Improve road safety and reduce accidents |
| Legal change | Amendments to Motor Vehicles Ordinance 1965 |
| Next step | Final approval by Punjab Assembly |
Why the government supports this move
Officials say the main reason behind this decision is safety. Instead of ignoring the reality that many teenagers already ride motorcycles, the government wants to regulate it.
By introducing training, permits, and conditions, authorities hope young riders will learn traffic rules early and ride more responsibly.
What happens next
After approval by the standing committee, the bill will be presented in the Punjab Assembly. Once the assembly gives final approval, the bill will officially become law across Punjab.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can a 16-year-old ride a motorcycle anywhere in Punjab now?
No. The law will only apply after final approval by the Punjab Assembly.
Q2: Will a normal driving license be issued to 16-year-olds?
No. Riders aged 16 to 18 will receive a Juvenile Driving Permit, not a regular license.
Q3: Are there any safety conditions for young riders?
Yes. The permit will include safety rules, supervision requirements, and other conditions.
Q4: Why was this law needed?
Many minors already ride motorcycles illegally. This law aims to control the issue and improve road safety.
Q5: Does this change affect car driving age?
No. The bill only focuses on motorcycle riding by minors.
Conclusion
The Motor Vehicles Amendment Bill 2026 marks a big shift in Punjab’s traffic policy. Allowing 16-year-olds to ride motorcycles under a legal framework could reduce illegal driving and improve safety on the roads. If passed by the Punjab Assembly, this law may help train responsible riders from a young age and lower accident rates in the long run.
Rana Shahriyar is a dedicated content writer and contributor at 8171 Rashan Program. With a strong interest in social welfare programs and government initiatives, his work focuses on delivering clear, reliable, and easy to understand information for the public.