How to apply for a driving licence online in India

Here is a step-by-step process for applying for a permanent driving licence online.

How to apply for a permanent driving licence online in India in 2024 (Source: RTO Vehicle)

A driving licence is a legal document authorised by the state government, granting an individual permission to operate a motor vehicle on the roads of India. It is a mandatory requirement as per the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988, and failure to possess one can result in penalties for driving on public roads.

The initial step involves obtaining a learner’s licence, and following this, one can progress to obtaining a permanent driving licence in the next 30 days after receiving the learner’s licence, which remains valid for 6 months.

Applying for a permanent driving licence in India has now become more streamlined owing to the latest digital advancements. The process is facilitated by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways through the Sarathi platform and other online services, ensuring a convenient application experience for citizens.

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Here is a step-by-step process for applying for a permanent driving licence online.

Know the eligibility criteria:

To be eligible for a permanent driving licence, applicants must meet certain criteria:

Hold a valid learner’s licence for at least 30 days.
Be at least 18 years old for a private vehicle licence and 20 years old for a commercial vehicle licence.
Know the traffic laws and regulations.

What are the documents required?

Applicants need to prepare several documents for the application, including:

Proof of age (e.g., birth certificate, educational certificate, passport, Aadhaar card).
Proof of address (e.g., voter ID, ration card, LIC policy bond, Aadhaar card, and passport).
Application forms 4 and 5 (the latter for commercial licences).
Original learner’s licence.
Passport-size photograph

Steps to follow for a new driving licence:

Visit the Sarathi platform: Start by going to Sarathi’s website and selecting your state to begin the application process by clicking on ‘New Driving Licence’ from the ‘Driving Licence’ menu.
Complete the application; enter your ‘Learning Licence Number’ and ‘Date of Birth’ to proceed further. Fill in all required details in the application form and submit it, along with the necessary documents, to your local RTO.
Book a test slot. You’ll need to book a slot for your driving competence test. This can often be done online through the Sarathi platform or at the RTO if the online option is not available.
Visit RTO: Go to the selected nearest RTO office on the scheduled date with the original documents and fee slip.
Pass the driving test. Bring a vehicle of the type you are applying for to the test. You must demonstrate your driving skills and knowledge of traffic rules and regulations.
Receive the licence: Once you pass the test, your permanent driving licence will be issued. The process, from testing to receiving your licence, can take a few weeks.

For the ones who prefer or are required to apply the offline method. It involves visiting your local RTO with all the required documents, completing an application form, and scheduling a test for your driving competence.