How to Apply for Driving Licence

Learn how to apply for a driving licence in India in 2025, including step-by-step instructions, required documents, fees, and online application process.

Introduction

A driving licence is a mandatory legal document for driving any vehicle on Indian roads. Whether you want to drive a two-wheeler, four-wheeler, or any other vehicle, having a valid driving licence is essential. This comprehensive guide explains how to apply for a driving licence in India in 2025, covering everything from learner’s licence to permanent licence, fees, documents, and online application.

Understand Different Types of Driving Licences

Before applying, know which type of licence you need:

• Learner’s Licence (LL): Issued for practice purposes before the permanent licence.
• Permanent Driving Licence: Issued after passing the driving test.
• Transport Vehicle Licence: For commercial vehicles like trucks, buses.
• Non-Transport Vehicle Licence: For personal vehicles such as cars, bikes.

Make sure you apply for the licence category based on the vehicle you intend to drive.

Apply for Learninig Driving Licence (Mandatory First Step)

The learner’s licence is the first step toward getting your permanent driving licence. Here’s how to apply online:

1. Visit the official Parivahan Sewa portal.
   
2. Select your state and go to “Apply for Learner’s Licence”.
   
3. Fill out Form 2 with personal details.
   
4. Upload documents: proof of age, address, and identity.
   
5. Pay the learner’s licence fee online (usually ₹150–₹200).
   
6. Book a slot for the learner’s licence test.
   
7. Appear for the test covering basic traffic rules and road signs.
   
8. Once cleared, the learner’s licence will be issued by your RTO.
   

Apply for Permanent Driving Licence Online or Offline

After holding your learner’s licence for at least 30 days, you can apply for driving licence. Here’s how to apply online and offline:

Online Application Process:

1. Visit the Parivahan Sewa portal.
   
2. Select “Apply for Driving Licence”.
   
3. Fill out Form 4 with accurate information.
   
4. Upload required documents and passport size photo.
   
5. Pay the application fee (₹200–₹300).
   
6. Book a driving test slot as per availability.
   

Offline Application Process:

1. Visit your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO).
2. Collect and fill out Form 4 manually.
3. Submit documents, photos, and application fees at the counter.
4. Book a date for your driving test at the RTO.

Book Your Driving Test Slot

Once your application is submitted, you need to schedule a driving test. Booking a test slot is easy and can be done online:

1. Go to the Parivahan Sewa portal.
   
2. Select your state and RTO from the dropdown list.
   
3. Click on the option to “Book Driving Test Slot”.
   
4. Choose your preferred date and time based on available slots.
   
5. Confirm the booking and save the appointment confirmation (PDF or SMS).
   
6. Make sure to arrive at the RTO with your documents on the scheduled date.
   

Receive Your Permanent Driving Licence

After successfully passing the driving test, your application is processed by the RTO. Here’s what happens next:

1. Your driving licence application is verified and approved by the RTO authority.
2. The licence is printed and dispatched to your registered address.
3. You can expect delivery within 2–4 weeks, depending on your state or RTO.
4. You may also download a digital copy (PDF) of your licence from the Parivahan portal once issued.
5. The licence remains valid for 20 years or until you turn 50 years old, whichever comes first.
6. Post-expiry, you must apply for renewal within the prescribed window to avoid penalties.

Driving Licence Fees in India

The cost of applying for a driving licence in India varies by licence type and state. Below is a general fee structure applicable in most regions:

• Learner’s Licence Fee: ₹150–₹200
• Permanent Driving Licence Application Fee: ₹200–₹300
• Driving Test Fee: ₹50–₹100
• Duplicate Licence Fee: Varies by state
• Licence Renewal Fee: ₹200–₹250

Note: Fees may vary depending on your state’s RTO guidelines. Always confirm via the Parivahan Sewa portal.

Common FAQs