The Punjab government has signed a formal agreement with online ride-hailing companies to strengthen passenger security across the transport network in province.
Under the new framework, all drivers registered with ride-hailing platforms must obtain a character certificate directly issued by the Punjab Police department.
Drivers operating motorcycle, rickshaw, and car services will not be permitted to offer rides without first presenting a valid police-issued certificate.
Officials stated that only verified and trusted individuals will be allowed to operate ride-hailing vehicles under this newly introduced regulatory framework.
Scale of Ride-Hailing Services in Punjab
Official figures show that more than two million people use ride-hailing services every single day, making it a major part of urban transport.
The scale of daily usage has made passenger safety a key concern for the Punjab government, prompting the introduction of stricter driver verification measures.
A comprehensive database of all registered ride-hailing drivers across the province will also be developed as part of this new regulatory framework.
Safety and Monitoring Goals
Authorities stated that stricter screening and improved monitoring will reduce incidents of crime and misconduct involving drivers on ride-hailing platforms province-wide.
Officials added that this measure forms part of a broader provincial strategy to modernise the transport sector while maintaining growth in the industry.
Public trust in ride-hailing services is expected to increase as a result of tighter background checks and regular monitoring of registered drivers.
How to Obtain the Character Certificate
Punjab Police states that applicants must visit their nearest Police Khidmat Markaz and submit their original national identity card for processing.
Applicants are also required to provide a copy of their passport and a sworn affidavit when applying for the police character certificate.
The fee for obtaining the character certificate is Rs500, and the document is generally issued within a few working days of application.
