Everything You Need to Know About Driving Licenses in India

A driver’s license is a mandatory prerequisite for Indian citizens to be able to drive. To be permitted to drive a two or four-wheeled vehicle on public roads in India, you need to have an Indian driver’s license. Obtaining a learner’s license is the first step toward driving a motor vehicle in India. It is the RTO authority that determines whether a person passes the exam or not after a thorough examination. 

To be able to drive legally in India, a person must pass through certain procedures to obtain a driver’s license. For a better understanding of things, here is what you need to know about getting a valid Indian driver’s license.

What is an Indian Driving License?

Essentially, it is the document that the Government of India issues, allowing motorists to operate motorized vehicles on public roads without supervision. It is the responsibility of the Regional Transport Authority to grant the license. Without a valid driving license, an individual is not permitted to operate a bike or car on public roads.

Use our  Ontrack App to search for RTO vehicle Information and information on driving licenses.

Types of Driving Licenses in India

1. MC 50CC: For Motorcycles that have 50 CC or below 50 CC engine capacity
2. MC EX50CC – For Light Motor Vehicles with gear and 50 CC engine capacity or more than 50 CC engine capacity
3. MCWOG/FVG: For motorcycles with any engine capacity but with no gear
4. M/CYCL.WG – For all motorcycles with or without a gear
5. LMV-NT: As the name suggests, it is for Light motor vehicles that are for the non-transport purpose
6. HMV – For Heavy Motor Vehicles
7. HGMV – For Heavy Goods Motor Vehicle
8. HPMV/HTV – For Heavy passenger motor vehicles or Heavy transport vehicle
9. MGV – For Medium goods vehicle
10. LMV – Light Motor Vehicle: For motorcars, vans used for delivery, jeeps, and commercial taxis
11. Trailer – For Heavy trailer license

Learners License:

People obtain learner permits or learner licenses before obtaining permanent licenses from government authorities. A Road Transport Authority authentication is required. Drivers’ licenses are valid for the same period in all countries, which is six months, which gives them time to brush up on their driving skills. 

The Government expects the driver learns how to drive properly during this very limited period. In this time frame, the learner is expected to be accompanied by an adult driver.

Permanent License:

Licenses are issued after the driver’s 6-month learner’s permit period has expired. A permanent license is then issued to the driver by the RTO. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age and pass the RTO-arranged driving test to obtain this type of license. 

Use our  Ontrack App to search for RTO vehicle Information and information on driving licenses.

International Driving Permit:

To qualify for this license, the driver must plan to drive a vehicle in a foreign country other than India. It may be possible to rent and drive a car in another country with this license. These can only be obtained by candidates with permanent licenses.

Driver’s licenses in India were categorized as follows. Nowadays the process has been simplified, and you can opt for an online license as well.

Eligibility Criteria for Driving Licence:

1. Motorcycle with Gear:  Minimum age requirement is 18 years old, and the driver must know traffic laws. It is also required to provide valid proof of age and address.
2. Motorcycle without Gear: To participate, one must be 16 years of age and have either his guardian’s or parent’s consent. Moreover, a valid address document and proof of age are necessary.
3. Commercial vehicles: This vehicle type requires one to have completed the eighth standard and be at least 18 years old, but some states impose a minimum age of 20. 

How to Apply for Driving License in India?

For the application for a driving license in India, you can choose between online and offline options. You can visit the RTO office and obtain a paper application form as the first step for offline applications. New learners must receive Form 1 as a learner license and Form 4 as a permanent license.

Fill out the form completely and submit it along with your age and address proof. As indicated on the forms, the required documents can be found there. To get a driving license, you must pass a driving test scheduled at a certain time. On successful completion of the test, you will receive the license at your registered address. 

Use our  Ontrack App to search for RTO vehicle Information and information on driving licenses.

Applying for Driving License Online:

Step 1: Go to the “sarathi.nic.in” website. 

Step 2: Select “New Driving license” under the “Sarathi Services” category in the drop-down

Step 3: Fill out the form and submit it. 

Step 4: The official SMS will be released to you which includes the Application number and the status of the application and the license issued.

Step 5: Select “Appointment for LL test” from all the options to schedule your learner’s permit test.

Step 6: Read all the instructions and documents that are mandatory to issue a license. 

Applying for Driving License Offline:

Step 1: Get “Form 1” from the RTO office or online via the state transportation website.

Step 2: Submit the form to the RTO office after filling it out. 

(Remember to attach the required documents with the form and also request a date for the exam from the RTO authority after paying the respective fees)

Step 3: Reach the RTO on the Driving License exam time and date. 

After the successful completion of the exam, the license is sent to the address that you’ve entered in the application form within a few days.

Use our  Ontrack App to search for RTO vehicle Information and information on driving licenses.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are there any online options for getting a driving license?

The application must be filled out on the Government Transport Website. For the license to be issued, you must schedule the test using the generated application number and pass it.

How can one check the status of a driving license?

Driving license status can be checked online on the official portal or by visiting the RTO office. 

What if I lose my driving license? 

When you lose an original driving license, you must apply for a duplicate license.

Can a 16-year-old get a driving license in India?

No. In India, the legal driving age is 18 years old at which a person can apply for a permanent driving license.

Use our  Ontrack App to search for RTO vehicle Information and information on driving licenses.