How Applying for a Driving Licence in India

In India, a valid driving licence is not just a piece of paper – it’s your legal authorization to drive on Indian roads and a crucial document for vehicle owners. Whether you’re a new driver eager to get behind the wheel or need to upgrade your licence for a different vehicle type, understanding the application process is essential. This guide will walk you through how to apply for a driving licence in India in 2025, covering eligibility, step-by-step application procedures (both online and offline where available), required documents, driving tests, and everything you need to know to get your licence and drive legally.

Who Can Apply for a Driving Licence in India? Eligibility Criteria (2025)

To be eligible to apply for a driving licence in India, you must meet certain criteria related to age, vehicle knowledge, and medical fitness. The primary requirements are:

• Age Requirement:
  • 16 years: For driving motorcycles with engine capacity up to 50cc (only with parental/guardian consent).
  • 18 years: For driving motorcycles and cars.
  • 20 years: For driving commercial vehicles (transport vehicles).
• Learner’s Licence: You must first obtain a Learner’s Licence before you can apply for a permanent Driving Licence. There is a mandatory waiting period of at least 30 days between getting your Learner’s Licence and applying for a Permanent Driving Licence.
• Knowledge of Traffic Rules & Regulations: You should be familiar with Indian traffic rules, regulations, and road signs. This will be tested during the Learner’s Licence test and driving test.
• Medical Fitness: You must be medically fit to drive. A self-declaration of medical fitness is usually required for a Learner’s Licence. For a Permanent Driving Licence, especially for commercial licences or if you declare certain medical conditions, you may need to submit a medical certificate (Form 1A) from a registered medical practitioner.
• Indian Citizen: Generally, driving licences are issued to Indian citizens. Foreign nationals residing in India for more than a year may also be eligible; specific rules may vary by state/RTO.

Types of Driving Licences in India

In India, driving licences are categorized based on the type of vehicle you are authorized to drive. The main categories include:

• Licence for Two-Wheelers (Motorcycle or Scooter):
  • MC50CC: Licence to drive motorcycles with engine capacity up to 50cc (for 16+ year olds).
  • MCWG or MC (Motorcycle With Gear/Motorcycle): Licence to drive motorcycles with gear and scooters, engine capacity above 50cc (for 18+ year olds).
  • MCWOG (Motorcycle Without Gear): Licence to drive only scooters and mopeds (gearless two-wheelers) – This category is becoming less common, with MCWG often encompassing gearless vehicles as well. Check with your RTO.
• Licence for Light Motor Vehicle (LMV – Car, Jeep, Van):
  • LMV-NT (Non-Transport): For personal use vehicles like cars, jeeps, vans.
  • LMV-TR (Transport): For light motor vehicles used for commercial purposes (transporting goods or passengers – e.g., taxis, delivery vans). Requires a separate badge/endorsement in some states.
• Licence for Medium Goods Vehicle (MGV)
• Licence for Medium Passenger Vehicle (MPV)
• Licence for Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV)
• Licence for Heavy Passenger Vehicle (HPV)
• Licence for Invalid Carriage: For vehicles specifically designed for people with disabilities.

You will need to specify the vehicle category you are applying for when you start your driving licence application.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Driving Licence in India (2025)

The process to obtain a Driving Licence in India generally involves two main stages: getting a Learner’s Licence first, and then applying for a Permanent Driving Licence after a mandatory waiting period.

Stage 1: Applying for a Learner’s Licence (LL)

A Learner’s Licence is a temporary licence that allows you to learn driving under supervision. You must hold a Learner’s Licence before you can apply for a Permanent Driving Licence.

Methods to Apply for Learner’s Licence:

• Online Application (where available): Many states in India have now enabled online application for Learner’s Licences through the Sarathi portal (https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/). This is the recommended method for convenience.
• Offline Application: You can also apply offline by visiting your Regional Transport Office (RTO).

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for Learner’s Licence Online (using Sarathi Portal – where available)

1. Visit the Sarathi Parivahan Website: Open your web browser and go to the official Sarathi Parivahan portal: https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/
2. Select Your State: On the homepage, select your State from the dropdown menu. You will be redirected to the Sarathi portal for your chosen state.
3. Navigate to “Learner’s Licence”: Look for options related to “Learner’s Licence” or “LL Application” on the state-specific Sarathi portal. Click on “Apply for Learner Licence”.
4. Instructions and Application Form: Read the instructions and guidelines carefully. Then, proceed to fill out the online application form. You will need to enter details such as:
   • Applicant Details: Name, Father’s Name, Date of Birth, Gender, Address, etc.
   • Vehicle Class: Select the class of vehicle for which you are applying for a Learner’s Licence (e.g., MCWG/MC, LMV-NT).
   • Educational Qualification
   • Mobile Number and Email ID
   • Identification Marks (optional)
5. Upload Documents (if required online): In some states, you may need to upload scanned copies of required documents online during the application process itself. Documents typically include:
   • Age Proof: (e.g., Birth Certificate, Passport, School Certificate)
   • Address Proof: (e.g., Aadhaar card, Ration card, Utility bills, Passport)
   • Passport-sized Photograph (check specifications on the portal)
   • Signature/Thumb Impression (check specifications)
   In some states, document upload may be done later, after online application, when you visit the RTO for the Learner’s Licence test.
6. Pay the Fee Online: You will be prompted to pay the Learner’s Licence fee online through the portal using options like net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI. Note down the transaction details and payment receipt.
7. Schedule Learner’s Licence Test Slot (if online slot booking is available): Some states offer the option to book a slot for your Learner’s Licence test online after application and fee payment. If this option is available, choose a convenient date and time to appear for your test at the RTO.
8. Visit RTO for Document Verification and Learner’s Licence Test: After completing the online application, you will need to visit your RTO (Regional Transport Office) on the scheduled date (if you booked a slot) or as per RTO guidelines. Carry the following:
   • Printout of Online Application Form (Acknowledgement Slip)
   • Original Documents (for verification – Age Proof, Address Proof, etc. as per RTO requirements)
   • Fee Payment Receipt
   • Passport-sized Photographs (as per RTO requirement)
   At the RTO, your documents will be verified. You will then have to appear for the Learner’s Licence Test.
9. Learner’s Licence Test: The Learner’s Licence test is usually a computer-based test consisting of multiple-choice questions on traffic rules, regulations, and road signs. You will need to pass this test to get your Learner’s Licence. Some RTOs may also conduct a basic eye test.
10. Collect Learner’s Licence: If you pass the test, your Learner’s Licence will be issued to you. In some RTOs, it may be issued immediately, while in others, it may be sent to your address by post or you may need to collect it later.

Offline Application for Learner’s Licence (If Online is Not Available or Preferred)

1. Visit Your RTO: Go to your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO).
2. Obtain Application Forms: Get the required application forms for Learner’s Licence (Form 2 and Form 1 – Medical Self-Declaration).
3. Fill the Forms: Fill out the application forms accurately with all required details.
4. Attach Documents: Attach photocopies of required documents (Age Proof, Address Proof, Photographs) as specified by the RTO, along with originals for verification.
5. Pay the Fee: Pay the Learner’s Licence fee at the RTO counter.
6. Submit Application: Submit the completed application form, documents, and fee receipt at the designated counter at the RTO.
7. Appear for Learner’s Licence Test: You will be given a date and time to appear for the Learner’s Licence Test at the RTO.
8. Pass the Test and Collect Learner’s Licence: Appear for and pass the Learner’s Licence test (computerized or written). If you pass, your Learner’s Licence will be issued as per RTO procedure.

Stage 2: Applying for a Permanent Driving Licence (DL)

After holding a Learner’s Licence for at least 30 days and before it expires (Learner’s Licence validity is usually 6 months), you become eligible to apply for a Permanent Driving Licence.

Methods to Apply for Permanent Driving Licence:

• Online Application for Driving Test Slot Booking (Recommended): In many states, you can book a slot for your driving test online through the Sarathi portal. This is recommended.
• Offline Application/Slot Booking: You can also apply offline at the RTO or inquire about driving test slot booking procedure at your RTO.

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for Permanent Driving Licence and Driving Test

1. Complete Mandatory Waiting Period: Ensure you have completed at least 30 days from the date of issue of your Learner’s Licence.
2. Visit Sarathi Portal and Select “Driving Licence”: Go to the Sarathi Parivahan portal for your state (https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/). Select your state and navigate to options related to “Driving Licence” or “Permanent Driving Licence”. Look for “Apply for Permanent Driving Licence”.
3. Enter Learner’s Licence Details: You will be asked to enter your Learner’s Licence number and Date of Birth to proceed with the application.
4. Fill Online Application Form (if required): In some states, you may need to fill a shorter online application form for Permanent Driving Licence, reconfirming your details and vehicle class.
5. Book Driving Test Slot Online (if available): If online slot booking for driving tests is available in your state, you will be able to book a slot for your driving test at your chosen RTO. Select a convenient date and time.
6. Visit RTO for Driving Test: Visit your designated RTO on the scheduled date and time for your driving test. Carry the following:
   • Learner’s Licence (Original)
   • Application Form Printout (if applied online)
   • Form 1A (Medical Certificate) – May be required, especially for commercial licences or if you declared medical conditions. Check RTO requirements.
   • Own Vehicle for Test: You generally need to bring your own vehicle of the type for which you are applying for the licence (e.g., motorcycle for two-wheeler licence, car for LMV licence) for the driving test. Ensure the vehicle is in good condition and legally compliant.
   • Passport-sized Photographs (as per RTO requirement)
7. Driving Test: You will have to undergo a driving test in the presence of an RTO inspector. The test will assess your driving skills, knowledge of traffic rules, and vehicle control. The test usually includes:
   • For Two-Wheelers: Figure ‘8’ test, road driving test.
   • For Cars (LMV): Driving on a designated track, parking, reversing, following traffic signals, general driving ability.
   • Specific test procedures may vary slightly by RTO.
8. Document Verification (if not done earlier): If you did not upload documents during the Learner’s Licence stage, your original documents may be verified again at this stage.
9. Biometrics Capture (if not done earlier): In some cases, biometric data (fingerprints, photograph) may be captured at the Permanent Driving Licence stage if it was not done during Learner’s Licence.
10. Licence Fee Payment (if not paid earlier): If you haven’t paid the Permanent Driving Licence fee, you will need to pay it at the RTO counter after passing the driving test.
11. Permanent Driving Licence Issuance: If you pass the driving test and document verification is successful, your application for a Permanent Driving Licence will be processed. Your Driving Licence card will typically be printed and issued to you immediately at the RTO in many cases. In some RTOs, it may be sent by post or you may need to collect it later.

Documents Required for Driving Licence Application (General List – Check RTO for Specifics)

• For Learner’s Licence:
  • Application Form – Form 2
  • Medical Self-Declaration – Form 1
  • Age Proof: (Birth Certificate, Passport, School Certificate, etc.)
  • Address Proof: (Aadhaar card, Ration card, Utility bills, Passport, Voter ID, etc.)
  • Passport-sized Photographs (usually 3-6, check RTO requirement)
  • In some RTOs, online applications may require scanned document uploads.
• For Permanent Driving Licence:
  • Application Form – Form 4
  • Learner’s Licence (Original)
  • Form 1A (Medical Certificate) – May be required, especially for commercial licences or if you declare certain medical conditions. Check RTO requirements.
  • Age and Address Proof – May not be required again if already submitted for Learner’s Licence, but carry them for verification.
  • Passport-sized Photographs (usually 1-2, check RTO requirement)

Always confirm the exact list of required documents, forms, and photograph requirements from your specific RTO or the state transport department website, as requirements can vary slightly by state and RTO.

Fees for Driving Licence in India (Approximate – Varies by State/RTO)

Driving Licence fees in India are relatively nominal but can vary slightly by state and RTO. Approximate fees are:

• Learner’s Licence Fee: ₹200 – ₹500 (approx.)
• Permanent Driving Licence Fee: ₹700 – ₹1000 (approx.)
• Driving Test Fee: Included in Permanent Licence Fee in many cases, or a separate small fee may apply.
• Additional fees may apply for Smart Card Driving Licence, if applicable in your state.

Check the exact fee structure from your state transport department website or RTO.

Important Points to Remember When Applying for a Driving Licence

• Apply in Your Jurisdiction: Apply for your driving licence at the RTO that has jurisdiction over your permanent address as mentioned in your address proof.
• Learner’s Licence First: Always obtain a Learner’s Licence first and practice driving sufficiently before applying for a Permanent Driving Licence. Driving without a valid Learner’s Licence (while learning) is illegal.
• Prepare for Learner’s Licence Test: Study traffic rules, regulations, and road signs thoroughly before appearing for the Learner’s Licence test. Many online resources and RTO websites provide study material and sample questions.
• Practice Driving Skills: Practice driving under supervision after getting your Learner’s Licence. Develop good driving skills and road sense before attempting the driving test for a Permanent Licence.
• Vehicle for Driving Test: Arrange to have a vehicle of the correct type (for which you are applying) in good condition for your driving test.
• Follow RTO Procedures: Driving Licence procedures and rules can vary slightly by state and RTO. Always check the specific guidelines and requirements of your local RTO or state transport department website.
• Be Honest and Safe: Be truthful in your application and during the medical self-declaration. Prioritize safe driving practices always.
• Validity of Driving Licence: Driving Licences are typically valid for 20 years or until you reach 50 years of age, whichever is earlier. Commercial driving licences may have shorter validity periods. Licences need to be renewed before expiry.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Sarathi Portal Issues: If you face issues with the online Sarathi portal (website slow, errors), try accessing it during off-peak hours or after some time. Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
• Document Issues: Ensure you have valid and acceptable documents as per RTO requirements. If you are missing certain documents, check for alternative acceptable documents or contact the RTO for guidance.
• Driving Test Failure: If you fail the driving test, you can usually reappear for the test after a waiting period (e.g., 7 days). Check the rules at your RTO. Practice more and reappear with better preparation.
• RTO Visit Challenges: RTOs can be crowded. Booking online appointments (where available) can help reduce waiting. Be patient and follow the instructions of RTO staff.

Get Your Driving Licence and Drive Responsibly!

Getting a Driving Licence is a crucial step towards safe and legal driving in India. By following this guide, preparing thoroughly, and practicing responsible driving habits, you can navigate the process smoothly and enjoy the freedom of driving legally on Indian roads. Start your driving licence application journey today and always prioritize road safety!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Driving Licence Application in India (2025)