Bihar Sees Record Vehicle Sales Amid Poverty; Surprising Numbers Shock Analysts

Patna: Despite economic challenges, Bihar has witnessed a remarkable surge in vehicle registrations, signaling a new era of mobility across the state. According to the Bihar Economic Survey 2025-26, nearly 1.4 million new vehicles were registered in 2024, accounting for more than 5% of India’s total vehicle sales. Patna alone saw registrations of 166,000 new vehicles.

In terms of private vehicle ownership, Bihar ranks seventh in the country, while in commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses, it holds the fifth position nationwide. The surge in registrations generated ₹3,678 crore in revenue for the state government.

Two-Wheelers and Cars Lead the Boom
The survey highlights that 1.126 million two-wheelers were registered, along with 77,000 cars, 78,000 taxis, and 45,000 three-wheelers. Patna emerged as the top district for new registrations, accounting for more than 166,000 vehicles alone. However, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra still lead in overall vehicle sales nationally.

Driving Licenses on the Rise
Alongside increasing vehicle ownership, Bihar has been active in issuing driving licenses. Over the past five years, 2.138 million licenses were issued, with a peak of 872,000 licenses in 2019-20.

Focus on Infrastructure and Training
To modernize traffic management, the state government is establishing automated driving testing tracks in all 38 districts. Additionally, 74 motor driving training schools are planned, with 35 already completed, aiming to improve driver skills and ensure a more transparent and safer licensing process in the coming years.

This surge in vehicle registrations and infrastructure development underscores Bihar’s rapid growth in mobility and transport sector efficiency, reflecting changing dynamics in both urban and rural areas.