Kerala to Mandate Hazard Perception Test for Driving Licence Applicants from December 2026

Kerala will introduce a mandatory computer-based Hazard Perception Test for driving licence applicants from December 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen road safety and assess whether applicants can identify potential dangers on the road.

The Motor Vehicles department (MVD) has designed the test on international standards, and it will follow a video-game-like format. Applicants will be required to clear it within 30 days of passing the learner's test, and only those who pass will be allowed to appear for the ground and road tests.

The assessment will consist of 10 one-minute videos showing situations and potential hazards that drivers may encounter. Each video will contain at least two hazards, which candidates must identify by pressing a button at the appropriate moment. Marks will be deducted for failing to spot a hazard at the right time. Candidates will earn 10 marks for each correct response and must score at least 60 out of 100 to pass.

The Transport Commissioner has directed that the online test be implemented from December, citing the rise in road accidents in the state. Although this is the first time such a test is being introduced in the country, a provision for conducting such an assessment already exists under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules.

Recognised driving schools have been instructed to provide training for the new test to applicants within the next three months. The MVD expects the test to help drivers recognise hazards in advance and take appropriate action to control their vehicles safely.