Maharashtra Motor Vehicle Aggregator Rules 2026 notified: From surge pricing to private carpooling to Rs 1 crore penalty, what changes for Ola, Uber, Rapido users

The Maharashtra government has notified the Maharashtra Motor Vehicle Aggregator Rules, 2026, bringing app-based passenger transport services, including those operated by Ola, Uber and Rapido, under a uniform regulatory framework.

The rules, notified on Wednesday by the Devendra Fadnavis-led government, introduce licensing requirements for aggregators, regulate fares, strengthen passenger safety measures and lay down provisions for driver welfare.

Here are the key provisions of the new rules:

Aggregator licence mandatory

Every app-based transport aggregator operating in Maharashtra must obtain a licence from the competent authority along with a Unique Licence Identification Number (ULIN).

Licences issued under the previous regulatory framework will remain valid for 60 days from the commencement of the new rules or until fresh licence applications are decided, whichever is earlier.

Fare regulation

The rules state that the fare approved by the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) will serve as the base fare.

• Aggregators can charge up to 25% below the base fare.
• Surge pricing can go up to 1.5 times the base fare.
• Drivers must receive at least 80% of the fare collected.

Under the convenience fee model, aggregators are required to pay drivers at least 95% of the base fare.

Penalties for violations

Authorities have been empowered to suspend or cancel aggregator licences for repeated violations, including passenger safety lapses, fare irregularities and other breaches.

The rules also provide for monetary penalties ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1 crore, depending on the nature of the violation.

Vehicle eligibility and safety requirements

Aggregators must ensure that vehicles listed on their platforms have:

• Valid registration and permits
• Fitness certificates
• Insurance
• Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates
• Cleared e-challans
• AIS-140 compliant vehicle tracking devices with panic buttons
• First-aid kits

The rules prohibit onboarding:

• Cabs and autorickshaws older than nine years
• Buses older than 12 years

Passenger safety measures

The new framework requires aggregators to provide:

• 24x7 customer support
• Grievance redressal mechanisms
• Real-time GPS tracking
• Live journey sharing
• Cyber security certification for mobile applications
• Accessibility features for persons with disabilities
• A zero-tolerance policy against drivers operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Apps must also be available in Marathi, Hindi and English.

Driver welfare provisions

Drivers must hold valid driving licences and badges and complete mandatory training before operating on aggregator platforms.

The rules also specify that:

• Drivers cannot work for more than 12 consecutive hours.
• Drivers are permitted to work with multiple aggregators.

Ride cancellations

The rules prescribe penalties for ride cancellations by both drivers and passengers.

Aggregators must provide replacement vehicles within specified timelines in the event of breakdowns. Higher penalties have been prescribed for cancellations involving trips to airports, railway stations and hospitals.

Ride-pooling and private carpooling

Women choosing ride-pooling will have the option to travel only with women co-passengers.

The rules also provide a legal framework for private carpooling, subject to conditions that prohibit commercial profit. Participants will only be allowed to share travel expenses.

Push for cleaner mobility

Aggregators will be required to gradually increase the proportion of electric and alternative fuel vehicles in their fleets. They must also include vehicles adapted for persons with disabilities as directed by the government.

Government's statement

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said the new rules are aimed at making app-based transport services safer, more transparent and more accountable while protecting drivers' interests and regulating fares.

According to the minister, the policy seeks to establish a safe, responsible, modern and sustainable aggregator service ecosystem by balancing passenger safety, driver welfare and employment opportunities for local youth.