Punjab Issues Clarification on Driving License Without Test. A viral message spreading on WhatsApp and social media has created confusion among citizens by claiming that Punjab residents can apply for a driving license online without appearing for a driving test. According to the message, applicants can submit their personal details and pay fees through Easypaisa or JazzCash using a website called dastakpunjab.online.
Punjab authorities have now issued a clear clarification. The claim is false, and the website mentioned in the viral message has no connection with the Punjab government or traffic police.
What Does the Viral Message Claim?
The message circulating on WhatsApp groups and Facebook pages states that:
- Punjab residents can apply for a driving license completely online
- No driving test is required
- Applications can be submitted through dastakpunjab.online
- Fees can be paid via Easypaisa or JazzCash
- The facility is part of a so-called Driving License Management System
- The initiative is falsely linked to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif
The graphic shared with the message gives the impression that this is an official government service, which led many people to believe the claim without verification.
Official Response From Punjab Traffic Police
Officials from the Punjab Traffic Police have clearly rejected these claims.
According to traffic police authorities:
- dastakpunjab.online is a fake and fraudulent website
- It is not linked to the Punjab government
- No driving license in Punjab can be issued without a physical driving test
- First-time applicants must visit traffic police centers in person
The department has already flagged the website for misleading the public and warned citizens not to share personal or financial information on such platforms.
Statement by Punjab Traffic Police Spokesperson
Punjab Traffic Police spokesperson Muhammad Usman Qureshi confirmed that:
- Biometric verification is mandatory
- Applicant photographs and video recordings are required
- A physical driving test must be passed
- These steps cannot be completed online
He emphasized that any claim suggesting a license can be issued without a test is misleading and false.
What Is the Official Driving License Platform in Punjab?
The only official platform for online driving license-related services in Punjab operates under a government domain.
This platform is used for limited online services such as:
- Learner license information
- License renewal guidance
- Duplicate license requests
- Appointment booking for traffic police centers
However, first-time license issuance still requires a physical visit.
Why a Physical Visit Is Mandatory for New Licenses
For first-time driving license applicants, Punjab Traffic Police requires:
- Biometric fingerprint verification
- Live photograph capture
- Video recording
- Practical driving test
- Knowledge-based traffic rules test
These steps ensure road safety and prevent identity fraud. Because of this, no system allows a driving license to be issued fully online.
Digital Security Experts Warn of Online Scams
Cybersecurity experts have warned that fake websites like dastakpunjab.online are commonly used for:
- Collecting CNIC numbers
- Stealing personal data
- Recording payment details
- Conducting financial fraud
- Identity theft
Once users enter their information and make payments, the scammers disappear, and victims have no official record or recovery option.
Common Signs of a Fake Government Website
Citizens should stay alert if a website shows the following signs:
- Uses .online or .com instead of .gov.pk
- Requests payments through personal wallets
- Promises services that bypass legal requirements
- Uses political names to gain trust
- Has no official helpline or verification system
How to Verify Genuine Punjab Government Services
To stay safe, always follow these steps:
- Check the domain ending with .gov.pk
- Visit official government social media pages
- Confirm information through Punjab Traffic Police announcements
- Avoid clicking unknown links shared on WhatsApp
- Never send CNIC or payment details to unofficial platforms
What to Do If You Already Used the Fake Website
If someone has already submitted information or made a payment:
- Immediately contact your bank or mobile wallet service
- Report the website to Punjab Traffic Police
- Change passwords linked to your CNIC or email
- Monitor your financial accounts closely
Public Awareness Is Key
Punjab authorities urge citizens to:
- Rely only on verified government sources
- Educate family members about online scams
- Avoid sharing unverified messages
- Report suspicious websites immediately
False information spreads quickly, especially on WhatsApp, and can cause financial loss and identity misuse.
Conclusion
The claim that Punjab residents can obtain a driving license without a test through an online website is completely false. Punjab Traffic Police has confirmed that dastakpunjab.online is a fraudulent platform with no government approval.
All first-time driving license applicants must physically visit traffic police centers for biometric verification and testing. Citizens are strongly advised to use only official government websites and remain cautious of viral social media claims.
