Maharashtra Makes Marathi Mandatory For Cab Drivers, Licence At Stake

In the Indian state of Maharashtra, people who drive taxis, autorickshaws, and app-based cabs now need to know the local language, Marathi.

The new rules say drivers must have practical knowledge of Marathi to keep their driving permits.

If a driver cannot show that they know Marathi, their licence approval can be suspended for up to three months.

If they keep not following the rule, the approval can be taken away completely, but the driver first gets a chance to explain their side.

A driver who does not know Marathi gets a notice giving them one month to learn it.

The rule also applies to people who hold permits for these vehicles and to permit renewals.

The government says this will help drivers talk to passengers and understand their needs.

The government also says some drivers were avoiding the old rule because it was unclear.

The new rules are called the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Rules, 2026.

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said Marathi becomes mandatory for taxi and autorickshaw drivers from August 15, with no extension of the deadline.