How To Apply For Driving Licence (DL)

Ujjwal Goel 0 Comments October 31, 2022
How To Apply For Driving Licence (DL)

Diwali is just around the corner, and everyone is busy preparing for the festival of lights. But have you thought about what you are going to do on Diwali? If you plan to buy a new car, this is the best time. Various companies are offering huge discounts and offers on purchasing new vehicles.

 But before you go ahead and buy a new car, you need to have a valid driving licence. In this article, we will guide you on how to apply for a driving licence in India. 

Table of Contents

What is a Driving Licence (DL)?

A driving licence is an official document that states that the holder is permitted to drive a motor vehicle on public roads to be eligible for a driving licence; applicants must usually meet certain age and residency requirements and pass a driving test. In India, a person must be at least 18 years of age to apply for a driving licence. 

Once you have obtained your driving licence, you must ensure that it is updated and renewed when necessary. In most countries, driving licences are valid for ten years before they need to be renewed. . If you are caught driving without a valid licence, you may be subject to a fine or even imprisonment. In some countries, such as India, a person driving without a valid licence shall have to pay a penalty of INR 5000/– and imprisonment of around three months.

So, if you’re planning on getting behind the wheel, ensure you have a valid driving licence!

Also Read: How To Transfer Ownership Of Vehicle

Types of Driving licence (DL) – Driving Licence Categories

A driving licence is an official document match states that the holder is applying to operate a motor vehicle on a public road. In India, a driving your state’s transport department authorities of the state where the applicant resides.

There are different types of driving licences for different categories of vehicles. The most common class are

Personal Use

License Class

Vehicle Type

MC 50CC (Motorcycle 50cc) Motorcycles with engines weighing 50 cc or less
MCWOG/FVG Motorcycles of any engine capacity but no gears, such as mopeds and scooters.
LMV-NT Light motor vehicles are used for purposes other than transportation.
MC EX50CC Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) include vehicles and motorcycles equipped with gear and capacity of at least 50 CC.
MC With Gear or M/CYCL.WG All bikes, including those with gear.

Commercial Use

License Class Vehicle Type
MGV Medium-sized commercial vehicle
LMV Motorcars, jeeps, taxis, and delivery vans are examples of light motor vehicles.
HMV Heavy Duty Automobiles
HGMV Motor Vehicle for Heavy Goods
HPMV/HTV Heavy passenger car/Heavy transport vehicle
Trailer Anyone with a heavy vehicle driving license may apply for a heavy trailer license.

Also Read: How To Pay Traffic Challan Online And Offline

Application for Services on Driving Licence (DL)

Applying for a driving licence (DL) is now easier than ever, thanks to the online application process. All you need to do is log on to the official website of your state’s transport department and fill in the application form. 

  • You will also need to upload a recent passport-sized photograph and your signature. 
  • Once the form is submitted, you must pay the application fee online. 
  • After the successful payment, you will be given a date and time for the driving test. 
  • On the test day, you will need to bring your learner’s licence and the required documents. 
  • If you pass the test, you will be issued a permanent driving licence.

Also Read: How To Apply For Learning License (LL)?

How to Apply for a Driving Licence (DL) Online?

A driving license is an official document that permits an individual to operate a motor vehicle on a public road. In India, a person must be 18 years old to apply for a driving license. The process of applying for a driving license has been made simpler with the introduction of an online application process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a driving license online:

  • Step 1: Navigate to the website parivahan.gov.
  • Step 2: Go to the online services page and choose “Driving Licence-Related Services.”
  • Step 3: Choose the state where you want to apply.
  • Step 4: Select “Apply for Driving Licence.”
  • Step 5: Fill up the applicant information.
  • Step 6: Attach scanned copies of all required papers.
  • Step 7: Submit your application fee.
  • Step 8: Schedule a driving license exam.
  • Step 9: Show up to the test as scheduled.
  • Step 10: If the candidate passes the test, the DL is sent to their door.

How to Apply for a Driving Licence (DL) Online?

How to Apply for a Driving Licence (DL) Offline?

In India, you can apply for a driving license (DL) offline by visiting your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO). The process is as follows:

  • Step 1: Obtain Form 4, which is the driving license application form in India. The Form may be downloaded through the official website of the state transportation. Alternatively, you can obtain Form 4 from your local RTO.
  • Step 2: Complete the application form and send it to the local RTO along with additional papers such as proof of age and address.
  • Step 3: Submit the application fee.
  • Step 4: Schedule your driving test.
  • Step 5: Take the exam at the RTO.
  • Step 6: If you pass the driving test, you will be issued a driver’s license.

Eligibility Criteria for Driving Licence (DL)

A driving licence is an official document that states that the holder is permitted to operate a motor vehicle, such as a car, motorcycle, or truck. One must apply and meet the eligibility criteria to get a driving licence. The eligibility criteria for a driving licence vary from country to country, but some standard requirements are listed below: 

Vehicle Type 

Eligibility Criteria 

Motorcycles with attachments. The candidate must be over the age of 18.

He must know traffic laws and regulations and have proper age and address verification.

Motorcycles without a transmission (up to 50CC) The candidate must be at least 16 years old and have the permission of their guardian or parents.

He must be acquainted with traffic laws and regulations and have valid evidence of age and address.

Heavy commercial vehicles The candidate should have completed the eighth grade.

The candidate must be over the age of 18. (The age limit for this vehicle is 20 years in several states.)

The candidate should have received their training at a state- or federal-affiliated training facility.

In some countries, the applicant may also be required to take a road safety course before being eligible for a driving licence.

Documents Required to Apply for a Driving licence (DL)

In India, a driving licence is mandatory for anyone who wishes to drive a motor vehicle on public roads. Applying for a driving licence can be done online and offline. To apply for a driving licence offline, the applicant must visit the nearest RTO (Regional Transport Office) to apply for a driving licence offline. The following documents are required to apply for a driving licence in India:

  • Proof of age ( birth certificate or passport)
  • Proof of address (Aadhaar card, ration card, utility bill, etc.)
  • Proof of identity (Aadhaar card, passport, PAN card, etc.)
  • Recent passport-size photographs
  • The completed application form
  • The applicable fees

What is the Test Procedure to get a Driving licence?

The driving test is divided into two parts: written and practical. When you apply for a learner’s licence, you take the written exam; when you use for a permanent driver’s licence, you accept the practical driving test. The first step is to take the learner’s licence test.

  • This is a written test consisting of 20 multiple-choice questions on traffic rules and regulations. 
  • You must score at least 60% to pass the test. 
  • Once you have passed the test, you will be issued a learner’s licence, valid for six months. 

After you have held your learner’s licence for at least 30 days, you can take the driving test. For this test, you will need to bring your vehicle. 

  • The test will consist of practical driving and theory tests. 
  • The practical driving test will assess your ability to drive safely in different traffic situations. 
  • The theory test will assess your knowledge of traffic rules and regulations. 
  • You must score at least 60% on both tests to pass. 

Once you have passed the driving test, you will be issued a driver’s licence, valid for five years.

1. Parallel Parking

This assignment puts your parallel parking talents to the test. In a designated parking area, park your automobile in reverse near a curb.

Parallel Parking

2. Ability to drive ahead on an “8” shaped track

This job assesses your ability to maneuver through many turns and curves. You must drive forward towards an 8-shaped track without stopping or deviating from the course indicated by yellow arrows.

Ability to drive ahead on an "8" shaped track

3. Driving up a slope can drive forward on the road with an uphill gradient

Your braking abilities will be tested here; you must be able to stop and go down the slope without moving backward.

Driving up a slope can drive forward on the road with an uphill gradient

How to Apply for a Duplicate Driving Licence (DL)?

A driving licence is an official document entitles its holder to operate motor vehicles on public roads. In India, a person must be 18 years old to apply for a driving licence. 

The process of applying for a duplicate driving licence is as follows: 

  • The applicant must first visit the official website of the State Transport Department.
  • On the website, the applicant must fill in the required application form and submit it along with the required documents.
  • The required documents include the applicant’s original driving licence, a copy of the FIR filed in case of loss of licence, and two passport-sized photographs.
  • The applicant must pay the prescribed fee and submit the application form at the nearest RTO office.
  • Once the application is processed, a duplicate driving licence will be issued to the applicant.

How to Apply for Renewal of a Permanent Driving Licence?

Every driver in India must possess a valid driving licence. The process for applying for the renewal of a permanent driving licence is as follows:

The applicant must visit the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO) with the following documents:

  • Application form 4
  • Permanent driving licence
  • Address proof
  • Age proof
  • Medical certificate (if the applicant is above 50 years of age or if the licence has expired over a year)
  • Emission certificate (if the vehicle is more than 15 years old)
  • Fee receipt

Submit the form along with the required documents and fees. The RTO will then issue a learner’s licence. The applicant must wait 30 days before appearing for the final driving test. On clearing the test, the RTO will issue the permanent driving licence.

Driving Licence (DL) & Learning Licence (LL) Fees

A driving licence is an official document issued by the government of India that authorizes an individual to drive a motor vehicle on Indian roads. The Motor Vehicles Act 1988 governs the process of applying for a driving licence in India.

The fees for a driving licence and a learning licence are as follows:

Licence Issued Old Fee New Fee
Obtaining a new driver’s licence Rs.40 Rs.200
Driving examination Rs.50 Rs.300
Renewal of a driver’s licence Rs.50 Rs.200
Obtaining a new learner’s permit Rs.30 Rs.200
Renewal of a learner’s permit Rs.40 Rs.200
Obtaining an International Driver’s Licence Rs.500 Rs.1,000
Renewal and issuance of driving school licence Rs.2,000 Rs.10,000
Renewal of a driver’s licence Rs.50 Rs.200
Fee for filing an appeal against an RTO Rs.100 Rs.500
Duplicate licences are issued to driving schools. Rs.2,000 Rs.5,000

How to Apply for an International Driving Licence?

An international driving licence is a document that permits a person to drive a vehicle in another country. The licence is issued in the country of residence and is valid for driving in certain other countries.

To apply for an international driving licence, the applicant must:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Hold a valid driving licence from their country of residence
  • Have a valid passport for a licenced driver accompanying them application forms
  • Pay the required fee.

The applicant will need to provide the following documents:

  • A completed application form
  • A passport-sized photograph
  • The applicant’s driving licence
  • A copy of the applicant’s passport.

The applicant may also need to provide additional documents, depending on their applying country.

Why Should You Apply for a Driving Licence (DL) Online?

A driving licence is an official document that states that the holder is permitted to drive a motor vehicle on public roads. In India, a person must be at least 18 years of age to apply for a driving licence.

There are many reasons why you should apply for your driving licence online. It is a convenient and hassle-free process. You can do it from the comfort of your home or office without going to the RTO. 

It is a faster process as well. Once you have submitted your application online, you will be given a date for your driving test. If you clear the test, you will receive your licence within a few days. 

Another advantage of applying for your licence online is paying the fees using a credit or debit card. This is a convenient option for many people. 

So, if you are of legal driving age and want to get your driving licence, make sure you do it online!

Difference Between a Driving Licence (DL) and Learner’s Licence (LL)

A driving licence is an official document that permits an individual to operate a motor vehicle on a public road. A learner’s licence, on the other hand, a learner’s licence is a document allowing an individual to drive a motor vehicle on a public highway but only under the supervision of a licenced driver.

The main difference between a driving license and a learner’s license is that a driving license allows an individual to drive a motor vehicle without any restrictions.

In contrast, a learner’s license imposes certain conditions, such as the need to be accompanied by a licensed driver.

Driving license

Learner license

A driving license is issued by the regional transport office (RTO). A learner’s license is issued by the driving test authority (DTA) issued a learner’s license.
A driving license is valid for 5 years from the date of issue. A learner’s license is valid for 6 months from the date of issue.
A driving license can be renewed after 5 years. A learner’s license cannot be renewed.
To apply for a driving license, an individual must be at least 18 years of age. To apply for a learner’s license, an individual must be at least 16 years of age.
To obtain a driving license, an individual must pass a driving test. There is no such requirement for a learner’s license.

Do’s

Don’t

Carry your DL while driving. Driving without a DL.
Renew your DL before it expires. Drive after your DL has expired.
Inform the Regional Transport Office (RTO) if you change your address. Lend your DL to someone else.
Inform the RTO if you change your name. Carry a fake DL.
Inform the RTO if you lose your DL. Use someone else’s DL.

Conclusion

A driver’s licence is one of the most important achievements for each new motorist. It entitles you to drive on Indian highways and enjoy the liberty of the open road at your leisure. In India, earning a driver’s licence is a simple procedure that begins with obtaining a learner’s licence before being eligible for a permanent one. You will acquire your driver’s licence and then become road legal if you pass your licensing examination at the RTO or a recognized driving school.

How to Apply for Driving License in other states?

FAQs

A: A medical certificate is not compulsory when applying for a licence in India. However, getting a medical certificate is advisable to avoid any complications that may arise during the application process.

A: A Learner's Licence is valid for six months from the date of issue.

A: If you do not clear your driving test, you will not be eligible for a refund.

A: There are a few ways that you can check the status of your driving licence:
1. You can contact the licensing authority in your state or territory
2. You can check online
3. You can check with your car insurer
4. You can check with your employer (if you drive for work)

A: If you have not received your driving licence even after 2 months, you should contact your regional transport office or the issuing authority to check on the status of your application.

A: A driving test is a test of a person's ability to drive a vehicle. It is usually taken by people who are applying for a driver's licence. The test may be taken by anyone who wants to check their driving skills.

A: If you are caught driving a bike without a driving licence, you will be fined, and your bike will be impounded. You may also be arrested and jailed.

A: Yes, it is necessary for you to carry your driving licence with you all the time while driving in India. If you are caught driving without a licence, you may be fined, and/or your vehicle may be impounded.

A: A medical certificate is not mandatory for obtaining a driving licence in India. However, getting a medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner is advisable to ensure that you are physically and mentally fit to drive.

A: Yes, a driving licence is renewable in India. The process is simple and can be done online as well as offline. The applicant must fill out the application form and submit it with the required documents. The application will be processed, and the licence will be renewed.

A: The driving test in India is conducted by the Regional Transport Officer (RTO) or the Sub-Inspector of Motor Vehicles (SIMV).

A: Yes, you will have to take your own vehicle for the driving test.

A: A learning licence is a document that allows an individual to drive a vehicle in India, provided a licenced driver accompanies them.

A: A permanent driving licence is a document that authorizes an individual to drive a motor vehicle on Indian roads. The licence is issued by the concerned regional transport authority (RTA) or the transport department of the state government. It is valid for the lifetime of the holder unless it is revoked or suspended by the authorities.

A: No, you cannot use someone else’s driving licence for driving a motor vehicle in India. Each person must have a driving licence to operate a motor vehicle in India.

A: There are a few simple steps that you need to follow in order to change the address on your driving licence in India:

1. Firstly, you need to visit the official website of the Transport Department of your state and download the form for changing the address on your driving licence.

2. Once you have downloaded the form, you need to fill it out and submit it along with the required documents at your nearest RTO office.

3. The documents that you will need to submit along with the form include your current driving licence, proof of address (such as a utility bill or bank statement), and two passport-sized photographs.

4. Once your application has been processed, you will be issued a new driving licence with your updated address.

A: Yes, you can use your Indian driving licence for driving in another country. However, you will need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) from the Automobile Association of India. The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue.

A: There are a few ways you can get a driving licence application form in India:
1. You can go to your local RTO (Regional Transport Office) and ask for the form in person.
2. You can download the form from the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
3. You can also get the form from an authorized driving licence agent.

A: You will have to visit the regional transport office (RTO) in Delhi to get your driving licence renewed. You will need to carry your current driving licence and other documents such as your passport, visa, etc.

A: A driving licence in India contains the following details:
1. Name of the licence holder
2. Address of the licence holder
3. Date of birth of the licence holder
4. The blood group of the licence holder
5. Gender of the licence holder
6. Date of issue of the licence
7. Date of expiry of the licence
8. Class of vehicle the licence holder is authorized to drive

A: You can use your driving licence to buy mutual funds in India.

A: Many motor driving schools in India are well-known. These schools include the Bajaj Allianz Driving School, the HDFC Ergo Driving School, the ICICI Lombard Driving School, and the Reliance General Driving School.

A: Yes, you can obtain a smart card driving licence in India. The process is similar to that of applying for a regular driving licence. You will need to fill out an application form, submit the required documents and pass the driving test. The intelligent card licence will be issued once you have met all the requirements.

A: There are a few ways you can track the status of your driving licence in India:
1. You can visit the official website of the Transport Department of your state and check for the status of your licence.
2. You can also contact the RTO office in your area and enquire about your licence status.
3. If you have applied for a driving licence online, you can check the status of your application by logging into your account on the official website of the Transport Department.

A: Yes, online slot booking for the driving test is possible in India. You can visit the official website of the concerned regional transport office (RTO) to book a slot for the driving test.

A: The process for a date of birth correction in the driving licence in India is as follows:
1. The applicant will have to apply the correction of the date of birth in the driving licence to the concerned authorities.
2. The applicant must submit supporting documents and the application form.
3. The authorities will verify the documents and make the necessary changes to the driving licence.

A: The fine for driving a vehicle without a licence in India is Rs. 500.

A: A driving licence in India is generally valid for 20 years from the date of issue. After that, it needs to be renewed. The process of renewing a driving licence in India is similar to applying for a new one.

A: Yes, you can change the address on your driving licence online in India. You must fill out a form and submit it to the concerned authorities.

A: Yes, you can get a driving licence form online in India. You will need to fill out the form and submit it to the authorities.

A: It usually takes around 15 days to get the driving licence in India after passing the driving test.

A: There are a few simple steps you can follow to link your Aadhar with your driving licence online:
1. Visit the official website of the UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India).
2. Enter your 12-digit Aadhar number in the designated field and click on ‘Send OTP’.
3. An OTP (One Time Password) will be sent to your registered mobile number. Enter this OTP in the next field.
4. You will now be directed to a page where you can select the type of licence you wish to link with your Aadhar.
5. Enter your licence number and other relevant details in the designated fields and click on ‘Submit’.
6. Your Aadhar will now be successfully linked with your driving licence.

A: If you are a resident of Mumbai, but you lost your driving licence in Chennai, you can apply for a duplicate licence from the regional transport office (RTO) in Chennai. You will need to submit the required documents, including a copy of your FIR, and pay the applicable fees.

A: The process for a name change in a driving licence in India is as follows:
1. You will need to submit a request for a name change with the regional transport office (RTO) where your licence was originally issued.
2. Along with your request, you will need to submit supporting documents that prove your name change.
3. Once your request is processed, you will be issued a new licence with your updated name.

A: The cost of obtaining an international driving licence in India is Rs.2,000/-.

A: Yes, you can drive a scooter with an LMV licence in India.

A: MCWOG is an abbreviation for "Motorcycle Without Gear". It is a type of motorcycle that does not have gears and is, therefore, simpler to ride. In India, MCWOGs are typically used for short-distance travel and are popular among students and commuters.

A: There is no limit to the number of times you can fail the driving test in India.

A: There is no specific test for a Commercial Driving Licence in India. However, to obtain a licence, you will need to pass a written exam and a road test.

A: Yes, there is a test for an International Driving Permit in India. The test is conducted by the Transport Department and is known as the International Driving Licence Test.

A: In order to apply for a driving licence in India, you will need to visit your nearest RTO office with the following documents:
1. A completed application form
2. A valid passport-size photograph
3. Proof of age and identity (such as a birth certificate, passport, or PAN card)
4. Proof of address (such as a utility bill or ration card)
5. Proof of citizenship (such as a passport or Aadhaar card)
6. If you are applying for a commercial licence, you will also need to provide a medical certificate

A: Yes, you can apply for a driving licence offline in India. You will need to visit your nearest RTO (Regional Transport Office) to apply for a driving licence.

A: The fees for applying for a licence in India vary depending on the state in which you reside. In some states, the fee is as low as Rs. 200, while in others it may be as high as Rs. 1000. You can check with your local RTO for more information on the fees applicable in your state.

A: There are three types of driver's licences in India:
1. A light motor vehicle licence allows you to drive a car or motorcycle.
2. A heavy motor vehicle licence allows you to drive a bus or truck.
3. A commercial vehicle licence allows you to drive a taxi or auto-rickshaw.

A: It usually takes around 15-30 days to get a driver's licence in India after the driving test.

A: The age limit for a driver's licence in India is 18 years.

A: There are a few ways that you can download your driving licence in India. One way is to go onto the official website for the transport department in your state and look for the option to download or print your licence. Another way is to go to an authorized agent or office of the transport department and request a copy of your licence. You may be required to fill out a form and pay a small fee for this service. Finally, you can also try contacting your local RTO (Regional Transport Office) and asking for a copy of your licence.

A: There are a two ways by which you can check the dispatch status of your driving licence in India. One way is to contact the regional transport office (RTO) that issued your licence. Another way is to check online through the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways website.

A: A driving licence number is a unique number that is assigned to a driver's licence. This number is used to identify the driver and to keep track of their driving record.