How to Apply for Driving Licence in India

1. International Driving Permit: This is required to drive in foreign lands or abroad and is only valid for up to a year. It cannot be renewed, and applicants need to reapply once it expires. 

How to Apply for a Driving Licence in India

Applying for DL can be done in two ways:

1. Online Mode
2. Offline Mode

How to Apply for DL Online 

Mentioned below is the process that must be followed to apply for a DL online:

Step 1: Click on the website parivahan.gov.

Step 2: Select the online services tab and click on the "Driving Licence Related Services" option.

Step 3: Select the State from which you wish to apply.

Step 4: Click on ‘Apply for Driving Licence’ option.

Step 5: Complete the applicant details.

Step 6: Upload scanned copies of the necessary documents.

Step 7: Pay the application fee.

Step 8: Book a slot for a driving licence test

Step 9: Appear for the test as per the schedule.

Step 10: The DL is delivered to the applicant's doorstep if they pass the test.

How to Apply for DL Offline

Here is the process that must be followed to apply for a DL offline: 

1. You need to get Form 4 which is the application form for a driving licence in India. The Form can be downloaded from the state transport official website. Alternatively, you can also visit the nearest RTO to procure Form 4. 

1. Fill up the application form completely and submit it with other documents like age proof and address proof at the nearest RTO. 
2. Pay the application fee. 
3. Book a slot for the driving test. 
4. Give the test at the RTO Office. 
5. You will obtain a driving licence if you pass the test.

Why Should You Apply for a Driving Licence (DL) Online?

It is ideal to apply for your DL online, as it is more convenient and takes less time than going through the entire process manually. You can simply download the licence application form from the internet and furnish it with all the necessary documents after filling up the form duly. Once this process is completed smoothly, you can appear for the test and obtain the licence.

Important Points to Remember While Applying for DL

Here are some of the vital points that should be remembered: 

1. Online registration for LL is only for vehicles for personal use and not for commercial transport purposes 
2. Applicants can apply for LL for more than one category of vehicle in a single application form 
3. The preliminary test is common for all vehicles irrespective of the category of vehicle 

Eligibility Criteria for Driving Licence

The eligibility criteria for a driving licence corresponding to the different types of vehicles are as follows: 

Documents Required to Apply for a Driving Licence

The following are the documents required to apply for a driving license: 

Any one of the below for age proof:

1. Birth certificate
2. School matriculation certificate
3. Attested copy of the passport
4. Pan Card
5. Passport

Any one of the below for address proof:

1. Voter ID
2. Ration Card
3. Valid passport
4. LIC policy bond
5. State or Central Government payslip

Other documents:

1. Learner's licence
2. Application form 4
3. Application form 5 in case of applying for a commercial driving licence
4. Three passport size photographs

Mentioned below are the essential documents that are required pertaining to your vehicle while applying for a driving licence: 

1. Registration certificate 
2. Car insurance proof 
3. Fitness certificate (for transport vehicles) 
4. Tax payment proof 

Fees for DL and LL

You can pay the fee either through SBI challan or online. The DL fees for the different categories of licence are given below:

DL vs LL: Key Differences

Here are the differences between a driving Licence (DL) and a Learner’s Licence (LL):

Dos and Don’ts While Applying for a Driving Licence

Here is all that you should do: 

1. Do check the form once you have filled it in for errors or omissions.
2. Do carry the original documents with you when you go for your driving test.
3. Do remember that a Learner's Licence is valid only for 6 months.

Here is all that you should not do: 

1. Don't submit fraudulent documents along with your application as you will be liable for penal action.
2. Don't forget to attach a copy of your Learner's Licence when applying for a Driving Licence.
3. Don't drive or ride (this includes while practicing) without a valid licence or documentation with you at all times.
4. Don’t drive alone without the presence of a permanent driving licence holder.