Women to get option to choose female drivers on Ola and Uber, new rules also clarify tipping policy

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Cab users in India may soon see major changes while booking rides on platforms such as Ola, Uber and Rapido. Under proposed amendments to the Motor Vehicle Aggregators Guidelines, 2025, passengers could get the option to choose a driver of the same gender, a move aimed at improving safety, especially for women travellers.

Along with this, the government has also introduced clear rules on tipping, allowing passengers to tip drivers only after completing the trip. Importantly, 100% of the tip amount will go directly to the driver, with no commission deducted by cab companies.

According to the government, these changes are designed to enhance passenger safety and transparency. Women passengers, in particular, are expected to benefit from the option to select a female driver during booking.

When will the new rules take effect?

The notification does not specify a fixed implementation date. In the absence of a clear timeline, the amendments may be treated as effective from the date of issuance. Earlier, when the original guidelines were issued in July 2025, states were given three months to adopt them. A similar window may be provided for these amendments, though no official deadline has been announced so far.

How will the system be implemented?

While the guidelines are issued by the central government, state governments will incorporate them into their licensing processes. After that, cab aggregators will need to update their apps to comply with the rules, including adding a “same-gender driver” feature under Clause 15.6. Failure to follow the guidelines could lead to penalties, including suspension or cancellation of licences.

A major challenge: very few women drivers

Industry experts point out that implementation may be difficult, as women account for less than 5% of cab drivers in India. This could result in longer waiting times, especially during late-night bookings, if the same-gender option is selected. Ola, Uber and Rapido have not issued any official statements on this development so far.

Full tip amount to go to drivers

The revised guidelines also make tipping more transparent. Passengers can tip drivers only after the trip is completed. The option will not be available during booking or while the ride is ongoing. Whatever amount is tipped will be credited entirely to the driver, with no share taken by the platform.