Driving is an essential life skill that opens up a world of opportunities and independence. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or just starting out, obtaining a driving license is a crucial step towards enjoying the freedom of the open road. In today’s digital age, applying for a driving license is easier than ever before, with the option to apply both online and offline. In this guide, we will take you through the steps required to apply for a driving license, both online and offline, so that you can get behind the wheel and hit the road with confidence.
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How to Apply for a Driving License Online?
Applying for a driving license online provides convenience and a streamlined process. Here are the steps to apply for a driving license online:
- Visit the official website of Parivahan Sewa.
- Navigate to the ‘License Related Services’ section and select ‘Drivers/Learners License.’
- Choose your state from the list provided and click on ‘Apply for Driving License.’ Then, click ‘Continue’ to proceed.
- Fill in the required information in the application form, including personal details, address, and other relevant information. Ensure accuracy and completeness of the provided details.
- Pay the prescribed driving license fee online through the available payment options.
- After submitting the application and fee payment, schedule a driving license test slot as per the availability provided on the website.
- On the scheduled test date, appear for the driving license test at the designated Regional Transport Office (RTO).
- If you pass the driving license test, your driving license will be generated and sent to your registered address through postal mail or made available for download from the online portal.
Remember to carry the necessary documents, such as proof of identity, age, and address, along with passport-sized photographs, when appearing for the driving license test. It is advisable to check your state’s specific requirements and guidelines before applying for a driving license online to ensure a smooth application process.
How to Apply for a Driving License Offline?
Applying for a driving license offline involves a few simple steps. Here’s how you can apply for a driving license offline:
- Download Form 4 from the official website of your state’s transport department or obtain the driving license application form directly from the Regional Transport Office (RTO).
- Fill out the driving license application form carefully, providing accurate and complete information as required.
- Pay the prescribed application fee for the driving license.
- Schedule a driving test appointment with the RTO. Choose a suitable date and time for your driving test.
- On the scheduled date, appear for the driving test at the designated RTO.
- If you pass the driving test, your driving license will be issued to you. It may be handed over to you immediately at the RTO or sent to your registered address through postal mail, depending on the process followed by your state’s RTO.
Eligibility Criteria to Apply DL Online or Offline
Eligibility criteria for applying for a driving license online or offline include:
- Valid Learner’s Permit: The applicant must possess a valid learner’s permit. It serves as proof that the applicant has undergone the necessary training and has basic knowledge of driving.
- Age Requirement: The minimum age requirement for applying for a driving license is typically 18 years for a private vehicle license. However, for a commercial driver’s license, the applicant must be at least 20 years old.
- Knowledge of Traffic Laws: The applicant must have a good understanding of traffic laws, rules, and regulations. This includes knowing road signs, traffic signals, and other essential aspects of safe driving.
- Time Limit for Applying: The applicant must apply for a permanent driving license within a specific time frame. This is usually within 30 days of obtaining the learner’s license or within 180 days, depending on the rules set by the issuing authority.
Documents Required to Apply for a Driving Licence
Following is the list of documents that should be submitted when applying for a driver’s licence:
| Category | Documents |
|---|---|
| Age proof | Birth Certificate, PAN Card, Passport, Class 10 Mark Sheet, Transfer Certificate with printed date of birth from school |
| Address proof | Aadhaar Card, Passport, LIC bond, Voters ID Card, Self-owned house agreement, Electricity bill, Ration Card, Rental agreement with recent utility bill |
| Additional documents | Application fees, Duly filled application form, 1 passport-sized photo (for Driving Licence), 6 passport-sized photos (for Learners Licence), Forms 1A and 1 (Medical Certificate for applicants above 40) |
Application Fees and Other Charges to Apply for DL and LL
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Issuance of Learner’s Licence (Form 3) | Rs. 150 per Vehicle Class |
| Renewal of Driving Licence | Rs. 200 |
| Competence to Drive Test or Retest | Rs. 300 |
| Issuance of Driving Licence | Rs. 200 |
| Learner’s Licence Test or Retest | Rs. 50 |
| Hazardous Goods Vehicle Authorization | Rs. 100 |
| Late Application (after grace period) | Rs. 300 |
| International Driving Permit | Rs. 1,000 |
| Addition of new vehicle class to driver’s licence | Rs. 500 |
Also Read: How to Get International Driving License in India?
Important Things to Know About Driving Licence (DL)
- Drivers of two-wheelers and four-wheelers no longer have to personally visit the Regional Transportation Office (RTO) to obtain their driving licence. New rules introduced by the Centre have made it possible to obtain a driving licence without a driving test.
- The Union Ministry of Roads and Motorways has made changes to the rules for obtaining a driver’s licence. These new rules came into effect on July 1, 2022.
- Accredited driver training centres have been given the authority to issue driving licences to eligible candidates who successfully complete the training. This eliminates the need for individuals to visit the RTO.
- To apply for a driver’s licence, applicants must enroll in one of the accredited driver training centres. They will need to pass an exam administered by the centre.
- Once the exam is successfully cleared, the driver training centre will issue a certificate to the applicant, confirming the completion of training.
These new rules aim to simplify the process of obtaining a driving licence by empowering driver training centres and eliminating the need for a visit to the RTO.
