In India, the first step to getting a driving licence is a learner licence (LL). The process is run through the Sarathi portal of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). Many states now allow the learner licence test to be taken online from home using Aadhaar authentication.
Age rules
- 16 years: for motorcycles without gear with engine capacity up to 50 cc, with parental consent.
- 18 years: for motorcycles with gear and light motor vehicles such as cars.
- 20 years: for transport vehicles, in most cases, as per the rules.
Documents
- Proof of age and address, such as Aadhaar
- Passport size photograph and signature (uploaded)
- Medical certificate in Form 1A for certain categories, such as applicants above 40 or for transport vehicles
Steps to apply for a learner licence online
- Visit parivahan.gov.in and choose Online Services, then Driving Licence Related Services.
- Select your state.
- Click Apply for Learner Licence.
- Choose the option to apply with Aadhaar authentication if available, which allows a contactless test.
- Fill in the form, select the vehicle classes and upload documents.
- Pay the fee online.
- Book a slot for the test, or take the online test from home if your state allows.
Also Read: DigiLocker Guide: How to Download Aadhaar, PAN, Driving Licence and Marksheets Legally Valid Online | Voter ID Apply Online: How to Register as a New Voter With Form 6 and Download Your e-EPIC
The learner test
The test checks knowledge of road signs, traffic rules and safe driving. It is usually a short multiple choice test. You can practise with the mock test on the Sarathi portal.
Validity
A learner licence is valid for six months. During this time, you must drive with a person holding a valid licence sitting beside you, and display the L sign on the vehicle.
Getting a permanent driving licence
After at least 30 days from the issue of the learner licence and within its validity:
- Apply for a driving licence on the Sarathi portal.
- Pay the fee and book a slot for the driving test.
- Take the test at the RTO or an authorised testing track.
Under rules notified in 2024, people trained at accredited driver training centres may be exempted from the practical test at the RTO, based on the centre’s certificate. Check your state’s rules.
Fees
Fees are fixed by the central rules and may include test fees and smart card charges. The exact amount is shown on the portal during payment.
Bottom line
Apply for a learner licence online on Sarathi, practise with the mock test, and after 30 days book your driving test. Carrying the licence on DigiLocker or mParivahan is also valid.
Source / स्रोत: Parivahan Sewa, MoRTH, Sarathi, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
