Good news for eligible SC and ST candidates in Karnataka who are looking to build a career in driving. The Karnataka Social Welfare Department, together with the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), is offering free driving training for eligible beneficiaries.
The programme covers both Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) and Heavy Passenger Vehicle (HPV) driving. Along with professional driving instruction, the scheme provides an opportunity for eligible participants to complete the process of obtaining a driving licence with support from the concerned authorities.
A key benefit of this initiative is that selected trainees can receive free food and accommodation during the training period. The programme is conducted at designated KSRTC training centres, while the Regional Transport Office (RTO) provides support related to the driving licence process.
Who Is Eligible?
The scheme is primarily aimed at candidates belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities in Karnataka.
Applicants must satisfy the prescribed age requirement. The eligible age group is 20 to 45 years.
There is an additional condition for those interested in heavy vehicle training. Such applicants must already hold an LMV driving licence and should have completed at least one year after obtaining the licence.
Therefore, candidates who do not yet have an LMV licence may be considered for the LMV training category, while applicants seeking HPV training must satisfy the additional licence experience requirement.
How Long Is the Training?
Both categories have a training duration of 30 days.
The programme is intended to provide practical and relevant driving instruction so that participants can improve their driving abilities and work towards obtaining the appropriate driving licence.
Successful completion of the prescribed training and licence-related procedures can help candidates move towards professional driving opportunities.
Required Documents
Applicants should carry the required documents when approaching a training centre. The listed documents include:
- SC or ST caste certificate
- Aadhaar card
- Four recent passport-size photographs
- LMV driving licence with at least one year of completed validity period for HPV applicants
Candidates should ensure that their documents are complete and accurate before beginning the application process.
Training Centres Across Karnataka
The free driving training is available through selected KSRTC training centres. The locations mentioned for the programme are:
Malur: 7760994432
Chikkamagaluru: 9449997805
Malavalli: 9632788571
Hassan: 9686684655
Holalkere: 7019072560
Interested applicants should contact the relevant centre directly to learn about the current batch, application process, document verification and other conditions.
Why This Scheme Matters
Professional driving can provide employment opportunities in transportation, logistics, passenger services and other sectors. However, the cost of training, accommodation and obtaining a licence can be a challenge for many applicants.
This initiative aims to reduce those barriers for eligible SC and ST beneficiaries by providing training through KSRTC facilities and offering food and accommodation during the training period.
Candidates who meet the eligibility conditions should therefore contact their nearest training centre and verify all current details before applying. Early enquiry is recommended because admission may depend on the availability of training batches and seats.
The scheme can be a useful opportunity for young and middle-aged candidates who want to gain recognised driving skills and explore professional employment as drivers.
