Key highlights
- MoRTH revises guidelines to allow private motorcycles to operate as bike taxis via aggregators.
- States can now authorize non-commercial two-wheelers for shared mobility and hyperlocal delivery.
- Move expected to reduce congestion, boost affordability, and create new livelihood opportunities.
Private bikes can now legally operate as taxis—Subject to state approval
In a landmark move, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has revised the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines 2025, officially permitting private motorcycles to function as bike taxis through ride-hailing platforms like Rapido, Uber, and Ola.
This is the first time the Centre has explicitly urged states to allow non-transport motorcycles to be aggregated for passenger journeys, hyperlocal deliveries, and shared mobility services.
What the guidelines say?
Under the new framework:
- States may authorize private bikes for taxi operations on a daily, weekly, or fortnightly basis.
- Aggregators must pay a licensing fee and ensure driver compliance, including background checks and insurance.
- Drivers must undergo 40-hour induction training, covering traffic rules, app usage, and first responder protocols.
The guidelines aim to create a light-touch regulatory system while ensuring user safety and driver welfare.
Impact on urban mobility
The move is expected to:
- Reduce traffic congestion and pollution
- Offer affordable last-mile connectivity in underserved areas
- Create new income streams for private bike owners
Ride-hailing platforms have welcomed the decision, calling it a game-changer for shared mobility. However, implementation depends on state-level adoption, which remains discretionary3.
Safety and tech requirements
To ensure safety and transparency, aggregators must:
- Equip vehicles with GPS, panic buttons, and AIS 140-compliant tracking devices
- Maintain 24×7 control rooms and call centers
- Provide health insurance (INR 5 lakh) and term insurance (INR 10 lakh) for drivers
Apps must also support regional languages, and aggregators must comply with data protection laws.