DODA, Oct 31: The Office of the Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO), Doda, has issued a strict circular warning vehicle owners and parents against allowing minors below the age of 18 years to drive motor vehicles.
As per the circular issued vide No. ARTO/D/2026-27/2626-31, dated 30-10-2026, the ARTO office has taken serious note of instances where vehicle owners and parents/guardians are handing over their vehicles to minors who are not legally eligible to drive.
The circular clearly states that no motor vehicle shall be handed over or permitted to be driven by any person below 18 years of age. It further emphasizes that individuals without a valid and effective driving licence for the concerned category of vehicle shall not be allowed to drive.
The ARTO office has warned that such violations constitute serious offences under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, particularly Sections 4 and 5 read with Sections 181 and 180. Strict legal action may be initiated against both the minor driver and the vehicle owner or person responsible, as per the law.
All vehicle owners, parents and guardians have been advised to ensure that their vehicles are not handed over to minors or any other person who is not legally eligible to drive. The circular further warns that any violation noticed by the department will be dealt with seriously.
In the interest of public safety and prevention of road accidents, the ARTO Doda has also urged all two-wheeler riders to invariably wear helmets and all drivers and passengers to use seat belts while travelling in motor vehicles.
The circular has been issued by the Assistant Regional Transport Officer, Doda, with copies forwarded to the Transport Commissioner J&K, Deputy Commissioner Doda, Senior Superintendent of Police Doda, Regional Transport Officer Jammu, District Information Officer Doda and Dy. SP Traffic Doda-Kishtwar for information and necessary action.