India’s updated cab aggregator rules now allow passengers to voluntarily tip drivers post-ride and choose same-gender drivers, including women drivers, for added safety. The amendments also cap surge pricing and tighten cancellation norms. These reforms aim to empower riders, ensure fair treatment of drivers, and enhance urban mobility nationwide.
In a significant move to improve passenger safety and comfort, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has notified amendments to the Motor Vehicles Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, introducing new features for cab users across India. The updated rules, announced on December 15, 2025, apply to all major digital cab platforms such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido.
Key Highlights
Voluntary Tipping: Passengers can now voluntarily tip their drivers, but only after the ride is completed. The tipping option will not appear during booking or while the journey is in progress, ensuring riders are not pressured. Importantly, 100% of the tip amount will go directly to the driver, with no commission taken by aggregators.
Same-Gender Driver Choice: Riders can now choose a driver of the same gender, with women passengers specifically allowed to select women drivers. This measure is aimed at enhancing safety and comfort, particularly during late-night or long-distance rides.
Safety and Fairness: The amendments also include fare caps (surge pricing limited to twice the base fare), stricter cancellation norms, and compliance requirements for aggregators to ensure transparency and accountability.
Policy Context: These changes were introduced after consultations with the Ministry of Women and Child Development and safety authorities, reflecting growing concerns about passenger security and fair treatment of drivers.
Broader Impact: Alongside these updates, bike taxis have been officially legalized, expanding mobility options for urban commuters.
Context and Impact
The new rules mark a progressive step toward rider empowerment, giving passengers more control over their travel experience. By allowing voluntary tipping, the government ensures drivers are rewarded fairly for good service, while the same-gender driver option directly addresses safety concerns raised by women passengers.
For cab aggregators, these changes mean greater compliance obligations and adjustments to app interfaces. However, industry experts believe the reforms will boost trust and adoption of ride-hailing services, especially among women and families.
The move also aligns with India’s broader push for safe, affordable, and inclusive urban mobility, setting a precedent for other countries exploring similar reforms.
Sources: Livemint, Mathrubhumi, NewsBytes
