By Sabica Tahira ⏐ 9 mins ago ⏐ Newspaper Icon Newspaper Icon 2 min read

Punjab has set a new national record by issuing more than two million driving licenses within just 18 days, following special directives from the Chief Minister. The milestone highlights a major push towards digital governance and improved public service delivery in the province.

Officials said the record-breaking performance was achieved as part of efforts to streamline licensing, improve road safety and ensure that more drivers are properly trained and documented. The Punjab Traffic Police intensified operations and expanded digital access to meet the surge in demand.

According to a Punjab Traffic Police spokesperson, over 940,000 citizens obtained learning licenses, while more than 360,000 people were issued fresh regular driving licenses during the period. In addition, over 700,000 licenses were renewed, including learning, regular and international permits, while more than 2,000 international driving licenses and 7,000 duplicate licenses were also issued.

A key role was played by the online home-based licensing portal, which was used by around 1.14 million citizens to apply for or renew their driving licenses.

DIG Traffic Punjab Muhammad Waqas Nazir said,

“Driving without a license is a punishable offence, and strict legal action, including heavy fines, will be taken against violators.”

He added that the increase in licensed drivers has contributed to a visible decline in traffic accidents across Punjab.

Traffic police continue to raise awareness about licensing requirements and have urged motorists to use official licensing centres and the online portal. Citizens have also been advised to download their e-driving license, which carries the same legal validity as the physical card.