From 2025–26, the Andhra Pradesh Government has increased the annual financial assistance for Auto Rickshaw and Cab drivers from ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 under the Vahana Mitra Scheme, which will be disbursed on October 1, 2025.
Here are the complete details on the eligibility criteria, required documents, and application process to avail the scheme benefits.
Why the AP Vahana Mitra Scheme Is Important for Drivers
Auto Rickshaw, Motor Cab, and Maxi Cab drivers often take high-interest loans to sustain their families and maintain their vehicles.
A significant share of their earnings goes towards insurance, fitness certificates, repairs, and other essential costs. At the same time, the recently launched free bus travel scheme has further reduced their income.
To ease this burden, the Andhra Pradesh Government reintroduced the Vahana Mitra Scheme, providing annual financial assistance to support these drivers.
Eligibility for AP Vahana Mitra Scheme
To qualify for the AP Vahana Mitra Drivers Financial Assistance Scheme 2025-26, applicants must meet the following conditions:
Vehicle Ownership and Operation Requirements:
- Applicants must both own and personally drive their auto rickshaw, motor cab, or maxi cab
- The vehicle must be currently operational and used for passenger transportation
Documents Required for Vahana Mitra Scheme:
- A valid driving license issued in Andhra Pradesh is required.
- Vehicle must be registered in Andhra Pradesh with a valid RC, tax, and fitness certificate (for motor cabs and maxi cabs).
Note: Auto rickshaw drivers can apply even without current fitness certificates for this year (2025-26), but they must be obtained within one month.
Personal Documentation:
- Aadhaar card (mandatory for all applicants)
- BPL (Below Poverty Line) or White ration card
Vehicle-Specific Conditions:
- No pending traffic challans or dues against the vehicle
- Leased vehicles or those rented out to organizations, including government bodies, are not eligible
Household Rules for Beneficiaries:
- Only one vehicle (Auto Rickshaw or Motor Cab, or Maxi cab) per household can receive benefits.
- The ownership and licence of different persons in the same Household is allowed.
- In the same household, data of the applicant and family members should pass the six-step parameters.
AP Vahana Mitra Scheme Application Timelines:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Existing beneficiary data (2023–24) shared with Village/Ward Secretariats | |
| Transport Department provides registered vehicle details to GSWS Department | |
| Online applications will be received at Grama/Ward Secretariats | |
| Last date for submitting new applications | |
| Field verification completed (Secretariat/Mandal/District level) | |
| Final beneficiary list generated and shared | |
| Financial assistance distributed by Hon’ble Chief Minister |
Note: The GSWS Department will share the list of beneficiaries who received financial assistance in 2023–24 (self-owned Auto Rickshaw, Motor Cab, and Maxi Cab drivers) with all Village/Ward Secretariats.
Therefore, old beneficiaries do not need to apply again. Only new applicants (those not covered in 2023–24) must submit a fresh application between 17 September and 19 September 2025.
How Will the Vahana Mitra Payment Be Transferred?
The benefit amount is not payable to the license holder or the driver of the vehicle, but exclusively to the individual in whose name the vehicle is registered.
Such an individual, whether female or male, shall have the scheme amount credited directly into his or her designated bank account through their corporation.
Note: Vahana Mitra payment not credited even if the below conditions are not also satisfied, such as:
- Only passenger vehicles are covered. Owners of goods vehicles are not eligible.
- Applicant should not be availing benefits under any other AP Government occupational scheme.
Conclusion:
The ₹15,000 Vahana Mitra support makes it easier for drivers to manage their daily struggles and take care of their families without slipping deeper into debt.
With money going straight into their accounts, the help reaches the right hands without delays.
In the end, it’s a step toward giving hardworking drivers the respect and security they deserve.