India Driving License Guide — Learner Licence, Sarathi Portal (2026)
To get an Indian driving license, first apply for a Learner's License (LL) at sarathi.parivahan.gov.in, pass the computer-based traffic rules test, wait 30 days, then apply for a permanent Driving License (DL) and pass the practical driving test. Your smart card DL arrives by Speed Post in 7-15 days.
Eligibility and age requirements
You can apply for a driving license in India if you meet these age requirements:
- Two-wheeler without gear (gearless scooter/moped): 16 years (with parental consent)
- Two-wheeler with gear (motorcycle): 18 years
- Light Motor Vehicle (car): 18 years
- Commercial vehicles: 18-20 years (depending on vehicle type)
- Heavy vehicles (truck, bus): 20 years
What documents you'll need
For Learner's License:
- Age proof (any one): Birth certificate, Class 10 marksheet, PAN card, Aadhaar card, Passport
- Address proof (any one): Aadhaar card, Voter ID, passport, ration card, utility bills (within 2 months)
- Passport-size photographs: 3-4 recent color photos with white background
- Medical certificate (Form 1A): Required if applying for commercial vehicle license or if over 40 years old
For Permanent Driving License:
- Valid Learner's License (at least 30 days old)
- Form 4 (Application for Driving License) — filled on Sarathi portal
- Same age and address proof documents
- Photographs
Step-by-step: Get Learner's License
Register on Sarathi portal
Visit sarathi.parivahan.gov.in, select your state, and click "Apply Online" → "Apply for Learner License." Create an account using your mobile number and email.
Fill Form 2 (LL application)
Complete the online application form with personal details, address, and vehicle class (two-wheeler, car, etc.). Upload scanned copies of age proof, address proof, and photograph.
Pay LL fee online
Pay the Learner License fee (typically ₹200-₹450 depending on state) using credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI. Save the payment receipt.
Book slot for LL test
Schedule your computer-based traffic rules test at your chosen RTO. Select a convenient date and time slot (usually available within 1-2 weeks).
Prepare for the test
Study traffic signs, rules, and regulations. Free study materials and mock tests are available on the Sarathi portal and mobile apps like "Parivahan Sewa."
Take the LL test
Visit the RTO on your scheduled date with printed application form and original documents. Take the computer-based test. Results are immediate.
Receive Learner's License
If you pass, your Learner's License will be printed immediately or sent to your address within 3-7 days. You can also download a digital copy from the Sarathi portal.
Step-by-step: Get Permanent Driving License
Wait 30 days after LL issue
You must hold your Learner's License for at least 30 days before applying for a permanent DL. Use this time to practice driving.
Apply for DL on Sarathi portal
Login to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in, select "Apply for Driving License," and enter your LL number. The system will auto-fill your details.
Pay DL fee
Pay the driving license fee (typically ₹1,000-₹1,500 depending on state and validity period — 20 years for non-transport, 3-5 years for transport).
Book slot for driving test
Schedule your practical driving test at the RTO. Book a date at least 1-2 weeks in advance as slots fill quickly.
Prepare your test vehicle
Bring a vehicle of the class you're testing for (two-wheeler or car). Ensure it has valid insurance, registration, and pollution certificate.
Take the driving test
Visit the RTO with your LL, application receipt, and original documents. The test includes basic maneuvers like starting, stopping, turning, reversing, and parking. For two-wheelers, you'll drive on a designated track (figure-eight, slopes).
Receive your DL by post
If you pass, your smart card Driving License will be printed and dispatched via India Post Speed Post to your registered address within 7-15 days.
How much does it cost?
| Service | Typical Fee Range | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Learner's License (LL) | ₹200 - ₹450 | 6 months |
| Permanent DL (non-transport) | ₹1,000 - ₹1,500 | 20 years or till age 50 |
| Permanent DL (transport/commercial) | ₹1,200 - ₹1,800 | 3-5 years |
| DL renewal | ₹200 - ₹500 | 20 years (non-transport) |
| International Driving Permit | ₹1,000 - ₹1,500 | 1 year |
How to renew your driving license
Driving licenses must be renewed before expiry. You can renew online or in person:
Online renewal (non-transport DL):
- Visit sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
- Select "Online Services" → "Driving License Related Services"
- Choose "Renewal of Driving License"
- Enter your DL number and date of birth
- Upload photograph and medical certificate (if over 40)
- Pay renewal fee
- Visit RTO if biometric verification is required
- Renewed DL dispatched by post
How to track your DL status
Track your Learner's License or Driving License application:
- Visit sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
- Select "Online Services" → "Application Status"
- Enter your application reference number
- View current status (Pending, Approved, Dispatched, etc.)
Common mistakes to avoid
Official resources
- Sarathi Parivahan Portal — Official DL application and services
- Parivahan Portal — General transport services and vehicle information
- Ministry of Road Transport & Highways — Policy and regulations
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