The central government has directed all app-based cab aggregators in India to provide a women-only ride option, under the Motor Vehicles Aggregator Guidelines, 2025. The move aims to make ride-hailing services safer and more inclusive by allowing passengers to choose a same-gender driver where feasible and strengthening consumer protections across platforms.
Choice of same-gender drivers to be standard feature
Under the revised guidelines issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, cab‑booking apps must offer passengers the option to select a driver of the same gender wherever operationally possible. The provision is intended to give women greater confidence and comfort, particularly during late-night travel or solo journeys.
While several ride‑hailing firms have trialled women-centric features in select cities, the government’s directive seeks to standardise the offering nationwide. Policymakers say formalising this choice could increase uptake of app-based services among women by addressing safety and trust concerns that deter regular usage.
Driver participation and employment implications
Experts note that the policy’s success will depend on raising the share of female driver partners on aggregator platforms, which is currently low. A sustained push—including targeted onboarding, safety training, flexible work models and incentives—may encourage more women to join as drivers, creating employment opportunities while improving rider safety.
Mandatory transparency on tipping
The updated guidelines also regulate tipping behaviour. Aggregators may enable tipping only after a trip has concluded, ensuring gratuities remain fully voluntary and preventing pre‑trip prompts that could pressure riders. Importantly, the rules require that the entire tip amount be passed directly to the driver, with no platform commissions or deductions.
Operational changes for aggregator platforms
Major players such as Ola and Uber will need to revise app interfaces, booking flows and backend systems to comply with the new requirements. Changes include adding gender‑selection options, strengthening driver onboarding and verification processes, and implementing transparent tipping and pricing mechanisms.
The guidelines also reiterate the government’s intent to curb unfair trade practices, regulate surge pricing and enhance accountability in the rapidly expanding ride‑hailing sector.
Context within India’s urban mobility agenda
According to Ministry officials, the revisions form part of a broader strategy to build an urban mobility ecosystem that balances passenger safety, driver welfare and platform responsibility. App‑based mobility is viewed as a key element of India’s transport infrastructure, and regulators aim to steer its growth toward greater inclusivity and consumer protection.
As cab usage rises across metros and smaller cities alike, introducing a women-only ride option—if implemented effectively—could improve safety perceptions among women passengers and influence how mobility services address diverse user needs across the country.
