How to Apply for a Driving License

Applying for your first driving license can feel complicated, but with the right information, it’s actually straightforward. Here’s a complete guide on how to first obtain your learner’s license and subsequently apply for your permanent driving license in India.

Step 1: Eligibility Criteria for Learner’s License

Before you start, check if you meet these criteria:

You must be at least 16 years old for two-wheelers under 50cc (with parental consent).

You must be at least 18 years old for regular motorcycles, cars, and other private vehicles.

Step 2: Documents Required for Learner's License

Make sure to gather these documents:

Proof of Age: Birth Certificate, Aadhaar Card, Passport, or School Certificate.

Proof of Address: Aadhaar Card, Electricity Bill, Ration Card, Passport.

Recent passport-sized photographs.

Form 1 (Medical Certificate) for applicants above 50 years.

Step 3: Applying for Learner’s License

You have two options for applying:

Online Application: Visit the official Parivahan website, fill out Form 2 (Learner’s License form), and upload your documents.

Offline Application: Visit your nearest RTO office, obtain Form 2, fill it manually, and submit it along with your documents.

Once your application is submitted, you'll need to pass a basic written test on traffic rules and road signs.

Step 4: Preparing for the Learner’s License Test

Understand the basics of road rules and signs.

Take online practice tests available on the Parivahan portal or other educational websites.

Step 5: After Getting Your Learner’s License

Once you have your learner's license:

Start practicing your driving skills under supervision.

You must hold the learner’s license for at least 30 days and not exceed 180 days before applying for a permanent license.

Step 6: Applying for Permanent Driving License

Once confident in your driving skills, follow these steps:

Fill Application Form: Complete Form 4 either online through the Parivahan Sewa portal or at your local RTO office.

Schedule your driving test appointment and pay the required fee online or at your RTO office.

Step 7: Prepare for Your Permanent License Driving Test

Regularly practice essential driving skills: reversing, parking, lane changes, and signals.

Ensure your vehicle is insured and fully operational. Verify your vehicle documents easily using RC Search.

Step 8: Taking the Driving Test

Arrive early on the day of your test with your learner’s license, documents, and a roadworthy vehicle.

Follow the examiner's instructions carefully and maintain composure.

Step 9: Receiving Your Permanent Driving License

After passing your driving test, your license will usually arrive within a few weeks at your registered address.

You can monitor your application’s progress through Driving License Search.

Additional Helpful Tips

Always keep your learner’s license handy when practicing driving.

If you fail your driving test, relax and book another test after seven days.

Ensure all your vehicle-related documents are updated. Quickly check any traffic fines or violations through Challan Search.