The Punjab Assembly’s Standing Committee on Home Affairs has approved the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Bill 2026, allowing children under 18 to ride motorbikes in Punjab.
The committee approved the proposal to permit motorcycle riding at the age of 16. It also decided to introduce a Juvenile Driving Permit for underage riders. Under the bill, a formal legal framework will be created for motorcycle riders aged 16 to 18.
The Juvenile Driving Permit will be issued by the licensing authority. Compliance with prescribed conditions, supervision, and rules will be mandatory for riding motorcycles. The government says the legislation aims to curb the growing trend of underage driving without licenses, improve road safety, and reduce traffic accidents.
The proposal also includes amendments to the Motor Vehicles Ordinance 1965. After approval by the standing committee, the bill will now be presented in the Punjab Assembly session. If passed, it will become law.
The move is expected to affect nearly seven million teenagers across Punjab. Authorities say it aims to curb unlicensed riding and improve road safety.
The issue drew public attention after recent crackdowns on underage riders, including students. Viral videos showed handcuffed schoolchildren being produced in courts. Police say blanket bans created enforcement problems and pushed more teenagers to ride without licenses.
Punjab IGP Dr Usman Anwar has sent proposals to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. He suggested amendments to the Motor Vehicle Ordinance, 1965, and the Motor Vehicle Rules, 1969. Under the plan, the Juvenile Driving Permit would introduce a regulated and monitored system for young riders.
Lahore CTO Athar Waheed said several countries already allow restricted or supervised permits for 16- and 17-year-olds. These include India, Malaysia, New Zealand, and parts of the US and the EU.
The IGP also proposed ending the “notified roads” condition. This would make seat belts mandatory on all public roads, aiming to improve overall road safety in Punjab.
