How to Apply for Driving License Online ā Step-by-Step Guide
Complete guide to apply for new driving license online via Parivahan Sewa. Learner's license, documents, fees, and test process.
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What is a Driving License?
A Driving License (DL) is an official document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) that permits you to drive motor vehicles on Indian roads. It's mandatory to carry while driving and is also widely accepted as proof of identity and address.
Types of Driving License
| Type | Vehicle Category |
|---|---|
| MC 50CC | Motorcycle up to 50cc (no gear) |
| MCWG | Motorcycle with gear |
| MCWOG | Motorcycle without gear (scooter/moped) |
| LMV | Light Motor Vehicle (car, jeep, van) |
| LMV-NT | Light Motor Vehicle Non-Transport |
| HMV | Heavy Motor Vehicle (truck, bus) |
| TRANS | Transport vehicles (commercial) |
Who is Eligible?
- Two-wheeler (without gear): 16 years with parent/guardian consent
- Two-wheeler (with gear) & Car: 18 years
- Commercial/Transport vehicles: 20 years
- Must be physically and mentally fit
- Must know traffic rules and signs
Two-Phase Process
Getting a Driving License in India requires TWO steps:
- Learner's License (LL) ā Get this first
- Permanent Driving License (DL) ā Apply after 30 days with LL
Documents Required
Proof of Age (any one):
- Birth Certificate
- Class 10 Marksheet
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport
- PAN Card
Proof of Address (any one):
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID
- Passport
- Utility Bill (recent)
- Ration Card
Additional:
- Passport-size photographs (3-4)
- Medical Certificate (Form 1A ā from registered medical practitioner)
- Aadhaar Card (for online e-KYC)
For commercial DL: Also need educational proof (minimum Class 8 pass for transport vehicles).
Phase 1: Learner's License ā Online Process
Step 1: Visit Parivahan Portal
Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
Step 2: Select Your State
Choose your state from the dropdown.
Step 3: Click "Apply for Learner's License"
Select "New Learner's License"
Step 4: Fill Application Form (Form 2)
- Personal details (name, DOB, father's name)
- Address details
- Vehicle class (MCWG, LMV, etc.)
- Select RTO
Step 5: Upload Documents
- Photo
- Signature
- Age proof
- Address proof
Step 6: Book Slot and Pay Fee
- Select appointment date at your RTO
- Pay fee online (ā¹200-ā¹500 depending on state)
Step 7: Take the LL Test
Visit RTO on appointment date:
- Computer-based test on traffic rules and signs
- 20 questions, need 12 correct to pass
- Multiple attempts allowed on the same day (in some states)
Step 8: Receive Learner's License
If you pass, LL is issued on the spot (or sent digitally to DigiLocker).
LL is valid for 6 months. You must apply for permanent DL within this period.
Phase 2: Permanent Driving License ā Online Process
Wait at least 30 days after LL before applying.
Step 1: Visit Parivahan Portal
Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
Step 2: Apply for Driving License
Select "New Driving License"
Step 3: Enter LL Number
Your details auto-populate from LL records.
Step 4: Upload Medical Certificate
Get Form 1A signed by a registered medical practitioner and upload.
Step 5: Book Appointment and Pay Fee
Select date for driving test at RTO.
Step 6: Driving Test at RTO
The test typically includes:
- H-test: Navigating through H-shaped barriers
- 8-test: Driving in a figure-8 pattern
- Slope test: Starting on an incline without rolling back
- Road test: Driving on actual road (in some RTOs)
Step 7: DL Issued
If you pass, DL is dispatched via post to your address (or available on DigiLocker).
Fees
| Service | Approximate Fee |
|---|---|
| Learner's License | ā¹200 - ā¹500 |
| Permanent Driving License | ā¹200 - ā¹600 |
| DL Renewal | ā¹200 - ā¹500 |
| International Driving Permit | ā¹500 - ā¹1,000 |
| Duplicate DL | ā¹200 - ā¹400 |
| Additional Vehicle Class | ā¹200 - ā¹500 |
Fees vary by state. Check your state RTO website for exact amounts.
Processing Time
- Learner's License: Same day (if test passed) or 1-7 days
- Permanent DL (after test): 7-30 days for dispatch
- DigiLocker: Available within 2-7 days
How to Check DL Status
- Visit parivahan.gov.in
- Click "Know Your DL Status"
- Enter DL number and date of birth
- View status and details
DigiLocker ā Digital Driving License
Your DL is available on DigiLocker (digilocker.gov.in):
- Legally valid digital copy
- No need to carry physical DL
- Download or show from DigiLocker app
- Traffic police accept DigiLocker DL
Important Tips
- Practice the H-test and 8-test ā These are the most common reasons for failure
- Book morning slots ā RTOs are less crowded, testers are fresh
- Learn traffic signs ā The LL computer test focuses heavily on signs
- Apply for DL within 6 months of getting LL ā Beyond that, you need a fresh LL
- Keep DigiLocker updated ā Download your DL as digital backup
FAQs
Q: Can I apply for driving license completely online? A: Application and fee payment are online, but you must visit the RTO for the learner's test and driving test in person.
Q: What is the minimum age for driving license in India? A: 16 years for gearless two-wheelers (with guardian consent), 18 years for geared vehicles and cars, 20 years for commercial vehicles.
Q: How long does it take to get a driving license? A: Minimum 37 days ā 7 days for LL processing + 30 days mandatory gap + driving test. Physical DL card dispatched in 7-30 days after test.
Q: Can I drive with just a learner's license? A: Yes, but with restrictions: must display "L" plate on vehicle, must be accompanied by a person holding a permanent DL, and cannot drive on highways.
Q: What if I fail the driving test? A: You can rebook and try again after 7 days. You can attempt multiple times within your LL validity period (6 months).
Q: Is it mandatory to carry physical DL while driving? A: You must carry a valid DL. DigiLocker digital DL is accepted as a valid substitute for the physical card.