The Karnataka Government’s Social Welfare Department, in association with the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), has announced a free driving training programme for eligible candidates belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities.
Under this initiative, selected candidates can receive training for Light Motor Vehicles (LMV) as well as Heavy Passenger Vehicles (HPV). The programme is designed to help eligible individuals gain professional driving skills and obtain a driving licence without having to bear the training and licence-related expenses themselves.
One of the major advantages of the scheme is that candidates selected for the residential training programme will receive free food and accommodation during the training period. The training is conducted through KSRTC training facilities, with support from the Regional Transport Office (RTO). Candidates who successfully complete the required training and procedures can obtain their driving licence through the programme.
Training Duration and Eligibility
The training period for both LMV and HPV categories is 30 days. Applicants must be between 20 and 45 years of age to qualify.
Candidates applying for heavy vehicle training must meet an additional requirement. They should already possess a valid Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) driving licence and must have completed at least one year from the date of obtaining that licence.
The programme is specifically intended for eligible SC and ST beneficiaries residing in Karnataka. It can be particularly useful for people who are interested in professional driving and are looking for employment opportunities in the transport sector.
Where Can Applicants Apply?
Applications are to be submitted through the designated KSRTC training centres located in different parts of Karnataka. Interested candidates are advised to contact the nearest centre to confirm the application procedure, availability of seats, training schedule and other requirements before visiting.
The currently listed training locations are:
- Malur
- Chikkamagaluru
- Malavalli
- Hassan
- Holalkere
Documents Required
Applicants should keep the necessary documents ready when approaching the training centre. The documents mentioned for the programme include:
- Caste certificate confirming SC or ST status
- Aadhaar card
- Four recent passport-size photographs
- Existing LMV driving licence for candidates applying for HPV training
Applicants seeking heavy vehicle training should make sure their LMV licence has completed the required one-year period.
Training Centre Contact Numbers
For application-related details, candidates can contact the respective training centres:
Malur: 7760994432
Chikkamagaluru: 9449997805
Malavalli: 9632788571
Hassan: 9686684655
Holalkere: 7019072560
Candidates should contact the concerned centre before travelling, as details such as application dates, document verification, eligibility confirmation and available training batches may vary.
An Opportunity for Aspiring Professional Drivers
The free driving training programme provides an opportunity for eligible SC and ST candidates to develop driving skills and pursue employment in the transport industry. Free accommodation and food during the training period can also reduce the financial burden on participants.
Those who satisfy the age, community and licence requirements should make use of the opportunity by contacting the nearest KSRTC training centre and obtaining complete information about the application process.
Since training seats and schedules may be subject to availability, eligible candidates are advised to make enquiries at the earliest and submit the required documents according to the instructions provided by the concerned training centre.
