A Driving License (DL) is a mandatory document required to legally drive any motor vehicle on Indian roads. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has made it convenient to apply for a Driving License online through the Sarathi portal.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of applying for both Learner's License (LL) and Permanent Driving License (DL) online.
Types of Driving Licenses in India
| License Type | Description | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Learner's License (LL) | Permits learning to drive under supervision | 6 months |
| Permanent DL (Private) | For personal/private vehicle use | 20 years or until age 50 |
| Commercial DL | For driving commercial vehicles | 3 years (renewable) |
| International Driving Permit | For driving abroad | 1 year |
Eligibility Criteria for Driving License
Age Requirements:
- Without Gear (up to 50cc): 16 years
- With Gear (Motorcycle): 18 years
- Four Wheeler (Private): 18 years
- Commercial Vehicle: 20 years
- Transport Vehicle: 20 years with 8th pass certificate
Documents Required for DL Application
- Valid Learner's License (for permanent DL)
- Age Proof (Birth Certificate, 10th Marksheet, Passport, Aadhaar)
- Address Proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, Utility Bills)
- Passport-size Photographs
- Medical Certificate (Form 1A) - for age 40+ or commercial vehicles
- Signature
How to Apply for Learner's License Online
- Step 1: Visit sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
- Step 2: Select your State from the dropdown
- Step 3: Click on "Apply for Learner Licence"
- Step 4: Fill Application Form with personal details
- Step 5: Upload required documents (Photo, Signature, Age & Address proof)
- Step 6: Pay the fee online (₹150-200 per class)
- Step 7: Book a slot for LL Test at your nearest RTO
- Step 8: Visit RTO on scheduled date and pass the LL test
- Step 9: LL will be issued immediately after passing the test
How to Apply for Permanent Driving License Online
- Step 1: Wait for minimum 30 days after getting LL
- Step 2: Visit sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
- Step 3: Select your State
- Step 4: Click on "Apply for Driving Licence"
- Step 5: Enter your LL number to fetch details
- Step 6: Fill in Form 4 (DL Application Form)
- Step 7: Upload Learner's License and other documents
- Step 8: Pay the required fee online
- Step 9: Book a slot for Driving Test at RTO
- Step 10: Visit RTO and pass the Driving Skill Test
- Step 11: DL will be dispatched via Speed Post within 7-15 days
Driving License Fee Structure
| Service | Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Learner's License (per class of vehicle) | ₹150 - ₹200 |
| LL Test Fee | ₹50 |
| Permanent DL Issue | ₹200 |
| Driving Test Fee (per class) | ₹300 |
| Smart Card Fee | ₹200 |
| DL Renewal | ₹200 |
| Duplicate DL | ₹500 |
| International Driving Permit | ₹1,000 |
Driving Test Tips
To pass the driving test at RTO, keep these tips in mind:
- Practice driving regularly before the test
- Know the basic traffic rules and road signs
- Be confident but careful during the test
- For two-wheeler: Practice figure-8, slalom, and straight line
- For four-wheeler: Practice parking, reversing, and hill start
- Carry all original documents on the test day
- Reach RTO at least 30 minutes before your slot
Vehicle Classes in Driving License
| Class | Description |
|---|---|
| MC 50CC | Motorcycle without gear (up to 50cc) |
| MCWG | Motorcycle with gear |
| LMV | Light Motor Vehicle (Car, Jeep) |
| LMV-NT | Light Motor Vehicle - Non Transport |
| HMV | Heavy Motor Vehicle (Truck, Bus) |
| HGMV | Heavy Goods Motor Vehicle |
| HPMV | Heavy Passenger Motor Vehicle |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to get a Driving License?
After passing the driving test, the DL is usually dispatched within 7-15 working days via Speed Post.
2. Can I apply for DL without Learner's License?
No, you must first obtain a Learner's License and wait for at least 30 days before applying for a permanent DL.
3. Is driving test mandatory?
Yes, you must pass the driving skill test at the RTO to get a permanent Driving License.
4. Can I add more vehicle classes later?
Yes, you can apply to add additional vehicle classes to your existing DL anytime.
5. What if I fail the driving test?
You can rebook a slot and retake the test after 7 days. Additional test fees will apply.