How to Apply for Learner's Licence Online in India

A Learner's Licence (LL) is the first step to getting a driving licence in India. It is a temporary permit that allows you to learn driving on public roads under the supervision of a licensed driver. You must hold a valid LL before you can apply for a permanent Driving Licence.

The entire application process can now be completed online through the Sarathi Parivahan portal — no need to visit the RTO office in most states.

What is a Learner's Licence?

A Learner's Licence is an official document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) that permits you to practice driving. Key points:

• It is mandatory before applying for a permanent Driving Licence (DL)
• You must hold the LL for at least 30 days before applying for a DL
• The LL is valid for 6 months from the date of issue
• You must drive with an "L" sign displayed on your vehicle while learning

Eligibility for Learner's Licence

Your eligibility depends on the type of vehicle you want to drive:

Other requirements:

• You must know traffic signs and rules
• No disqualification order from any court or RTO should be in effect
• You must be physically and mentally fit to drive

Documents Required for Learner's Licence

Keep these documents ready before starting your application:

Mandatory Documents

1. Proof of Age (any one):

   • Birth certificate
   • 10th class mark sheet
   • Aadhaar card
   • Passport
   • PAN card

2. Proof of Address (any one):

   • Aadhaar card
   • Voter ID
   • Passport
   • Electricity / water bill (not older than 3 months)
   • Ration card

3. Passport-size photographs — recent colour photos

4. Signature — digital or scanned

Additional Documents (if applicable)

• Medical Certificate (Form 1A) — required for transport/commercial vehicle licence, or if applicant has any physical disability
• Parental consent — if applicant is between 16–18 years
• 8th class pass certificate — for transport vehicle LL

How to Apply for Learner's Licence Online — Step by Step

Follow these steps on the Sarathi Parivahan portal:

Step 1: Visit the Sarathi Portal

Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in and select your state from the dropdown.

Step 2: Select "New Learner's Licence"

On the state page, click on "New Learner's Licence" under the Learner's Licence section.

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

• Enter your personal details — name, father's/mother's name, date of birth, address, mobile number, and email
• Select the class of vehicle (e.g., MC with gear, LMV, Transport)
• Fill in all mandatory fields marked with an asterisk (*)

Step 4: Upload Documents

• Upload scanned copies of your age proof, address proof, photograph, and signature
• File size and format requirements will be shown on the portal (usually JPEG/PDF, under 1 MB)

Step 5: Upload Medical Certificate (if needed)

• For transport vehicles, upload Form 1A signed by a registered medical practitioner
• For non-transport LMV/motorcycle, a self-declaration of fitness is usually sufficient

Step 6: Book LL Test Slot

• Choose a date and time for your online LL test
• Some states allow you to take the test immediately; others require a scheduled appointment at the RTO

Step 7: Pay the Fee

• Pay the LL fee online using net banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI
• You will receive a payment receipt — save it for your records

Step 8: Take the LL Test

• Appear for the test on your scheduled date (online or at RTO, depending on state)
• On passing, your LL will be issued

Step 9: Download Your Learner's Licence

• Once approved, download your LL from the Sarathi portal or check your registered email

Learner's Licence Fees

Note: Fees vary slightly by state. The exact amount will be shown during online payment.

LL Test — Format and How to Pass

The Learner's Licence test checks your knowledge of Indian traffic rules and road signs.

Test Format

• Total questions: 15 (multiple choice)
• Passing score: 9 correct answers (60%)
• Time limit: Usually 5–10 minutes
• Language: Available in English, Hindi, and regional languages
• Mode: Computer-based (at RTO or online, depending on your state)

Topics Covered

• Traffic signs (mandatory, cautionary, informatory)
• Road markings and signals
• Right of way and overtaking rules
• Speed limits
• Drink driving laws
• Seat belt and helmet rules
• Pollution and vehicle fitness

Tips to Pass the LL Test

1. Study the official RTO handbook — focus on traffic signs and their meanings
2. Practice mock tests — many free mock tests are available on the Parivahan website and third-party apps
3. Learn all traffic signs — at least 20–30 common signs are asked frequently
4. Read questions carefully — some questions have tricky wording
5. Don't rush — you have enough time, so read each question properly

How to Download Your Learner's Licence

After passing the LL test:

1. Visit sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
2. Select your state
3. Click on "Print Learner's Licence" or "Download LL"
4. Enter your Application Number and Date of Birth
5. Download and print the PDF

You can also check your email — the LL is often sent to your registered email address.

How to Check Learner's Licence Status

1. Go to parivahan.gov.in
2. Navigate to "Know Your LL Status" or use the Sarathi portal
3. Enter your Application Number or LL Number and Date of Birth
4. Your current status (approved, pending, rejected) will be displayed

Learner's Licence Validity and Rules

• Validity: 6 months from the date of issue
• Renewal: If your LL expires, you need to apply for a fresh LL — there is no renewal option
• Rules while driving with LL:
  • Always display an "L" sign on the front and back of the vehicle
  • Drive only under the supervision of a person who holds a valid permanent driving licence
  • Do not carry passengers (except the supervisor)
  • Do not drive on highways or restricted roads
  • Follow all traffic rules strictly

Converting Learner's Licence to Permanent Driving Licence

After holding your LL for at least 30 days (and before it expires in 6 months), you can apply for a permanent Driving Licence:

1. Visit the Sarathi portal and select "New Driving Licence"
2. Enter your LL number
3. Book a driving test slot at your nearest RTO
4. Upload required documents
5. Pay the DL fee (approximately ₹300–₹500)
6. Appear for the driving test at the RTO on the scheduled date
7. On passing, your permanent DL will be issued

Related: Already have a DL? Learn about DL Renewal or applying for an International Driving Permit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply for a Learner's Licence fully online?

Yes, in most states you can complete the entire LL application online through the Sarathi Parivahan portal — including filling the form, uploading documents, paying fees, and even taking the LL test. Some states may still require you to visit the RTO for the test.

How long does it take to get a Learner's Licence?

If you pass the LL test, the licence is usually issued on the same day or within 1–2 working days. You can download it from the portal.

Can I drive a car with a Learner's Licence?

Yes, but only under the supervision of a person who holds a valid permanent driving licence for that vehicle type. You must also display an "L" sign on the vehicle.

What happens if I fail the LL test?

You can retake the test. Most states allow you to rebook and attempt the test again after a 7-day waiting period. You may need to pay the test fee again.

Is a medical certificate required for a Learner's Licence?

A medical certificate (Form 1A) is required only for transport/commercial vehicle LL applications. For personal vehicles (motorcycle, car), a self-declaration of physical fitness is usually enough.

Can I apply for LL for multiple vehicle types at once?

Yes, you can select multiple vehicle classes (e.g., motorcycle with gear + LMV) in a single application. The fee may be slightly higher.

What is the minimum age for a two-wheeler Learner's Licence?

You can apply at 16 years for a motorcycle without gear (up to 50cc) with parental consent. For a geared motorcycle, the minimum age is 18 years.