New Traffic Fines & Rules: Full Guide to the 2019 MV Act

The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 was enacted to enhance road safety, reduce accidents, and strengthen penalties for traffic violations. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways oversees its implementation, aiming to protect drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and accident victims through digitisation, better online services, and stricter rules.

Key Features

• Higher Fines: Traffic violations now attract heftier penalties (e.g., ₹1,000 for not wearing a helmet, ₹5,000 for driving without a licence).
• Driving Licence Rules: The test for obtaining a licence has become stricter.
• Road Safety: Stringent punishments for drunken driving, over-speeding, and mobile use while driving.
• Protection for Good Samaritans: Individuals helping accident victims cannot face harassment.
• Vehicle Recall: Unsafe or defective vehicles can be recalled by the government.
• Online Services: Licensing, registration, and renewals are now available digitally.
• Compensation to Victims: Faster settlement of insurance claims for road accident victims.
• E-Governance: Vehicle and driver data across India is digitised and interconnected for transparency.

State-wise Access & Online Services

Most states provide online vehicle registration, licence renewals, driving tests, and accident reporting through the respective RTO or transport department portals.

FAQs – Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019

Q1. What is the fine for not wearing a helmet?

₹1,000; additionally, licence suspension and vehicle seizure for 3 months.

Q2. What if I use my mobile while driving?

Fines range between ₹1,000–₹5,000 for distracted driving.

Q3. What happens if I drive without a licence?

₹5,000 fine, possible jail, and vehicle seizure.

Q4. My child rode a bike underage. What are the penalties?

Fine starts at ₹25,000; vehicle owner may face jail; minor's licence deferred until age 25.

Q5. Do I need to carry a physical licence and RC?

No. Digital copies via DigiLocker or mParivahan are valid.

Q6. Can I renew my licence online?

Yes, most RTO services including renewals and vehicle registrations are now online.

Q7. I saved an accident victim. Can I face legal trouble?

No. Good Samaritans are legally protected from harassment by police or hospitals.

Q8. Will accident victims get compensation faster?

Yes. Insurance claims and compensation processes have been streamlined.

Q9. Fine for not wearing a seatbelt?

₹1,000 for drivers and passengers.

Q10. What about speeding fines?

Fines range from ₹1,000–₹2,000 depending on the excess speed.

Q11. My vehicle has a manufacturing defect. Can it be recalled?

Yes. The government can mandate recall and repair/replacement of unsafe vehicles.

Q12. Do I need to visit the RTO for all services?

No. Many services are digitised, reducing the need for physical visits.

Q13. Are these rules applicable nationwide?

Yes. They apply across cities, towns, and villages throughout India.

Q14. What if traffic police misbehave?

You can file complaints; officers must follow rules and transparency has increased.

Q15. What is the main purpose of this Act?

To save lives, reduce reckless driving, ensure compliance with safety standards, and streamline vehicle and driver regulations.