Kerala Introduces Mandatory Hazard Perception Test for Drivers

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Key takeaways

Kerala will become India's first state to introduce a mandatory computer-based Hazard Perception Test (HPT) starting from December 2026.
The test aligns with the existing provisions of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules to measure situational road safety skills.
Licence applicants must clear the test within 30 days of passing their learner's permit exam before moving to physical driving tests.
Candidates watch 10 one-minute video clips and must secure at least 60 out of 100 marks to qualify.

Kerala will become the first state in India to introduce a mandatory computer-based Hazard Perception Test (HPT) for driving licence applicants from December 2026.

This test evaluates road safety skills on a computer. It shows simulated traffic scenes to see if applicants can spot road dangers in time.
The legal foundation for this test is not new. The Central Motor Vehicles Rules already contain provisions for such an assessment.

The test aims to change how authorities evaluate drivers. It focuses on spotting hazards early, anticipating risk, and making safe driving decisions rather than just checking vehicle handling skills.

Applicants must pass the HPT within 30 days after clearing their learner's licence test. They can take ground and road driving tests only after clearing this stage.
The test shows 10 short video clips of one minute each. Every clip displays at least two potential road hazards.
Candidates press a button the moment they see a hazard develop. If a candidate reacts too late or misses the hazard completely, they lose marks.
Each correct answer gives 10 marks. Candidates must score at least 60 out of 100 marks to qualify.

The assessment directly improves road safety. Drivers learn to predict dangerous road situations early, which helps cut down crashes caused by poor hazard recognition.
It strengthens the licensing process. The test adds a practical cognitive safety check to the existing system of learner and practical driving tests.
Kerala provides a working blueprint for other states. The move can encourage the nationwide adoption of modern, technology-based driver testing.