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All applications, statutory fee payments, and official queries must be submitted directly through designated government departments or the authoritative portal.

Identity DocumentsValidity: Valid for 20 years or until the holder attains 40 years of age (whichever is earlier); subsequent renewals every 10 or 5 years.Statutory Reference Guide

Driving Licence (DL)

What It Is:

An official government document issued under the Motor Vehicles Act 1988 authorizing an individual to drive a motor vehicle of specified categories on public roads in India.

Where It Is Issued

Regional Transport Office (RTO) / District Transport Office (DTO) under State Transport Departments.

Issuing Authority

State Transport Departments & Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)

Online Application Authority

Parivahan Sewa (Sarathi Portal)

Official Purpose & Who Generally Needs It

Official Purpose & Utility

Legal authorization for operating two-wheelers, light motor vehicles, or commercial transport vehicles, as well as authoritative age and identity proof nationwide.

Target Groups & Beneficiaries
  • Any individual wishing to operate motor vehicles on public roads in India
  • Persons aged 16+ for gearless 50cc two-wheelers
  • Persons aged 18+ for Light Motor Vehicles (cars/motorcycles)
  • Persons aged 20+ for commercial transport vehicles

Common Supporting Documents Required

General statutory proofs accepted across state and central application gateways.

Proof of Age
  • Birth Certificate
  • Class 10 School Certificate
  • PAN Card
  • Aadhaar Card
  • Passport
Proof of Address
  • Aadhaar Card
  • Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC)
  • Passport
  • Electricity bill
  • Registered house agreement
Medical & Prerequisites
  • Form 1A Medical Fitness Certificate (for applicants over 40 years or commercial licences)
  • Learner's Licence Number

General Application & Issuance Process

Standard operational workflow for obtaining Driving Licence (DL) via designated channels.

1

Apply for Learner's Licence (LL)

Submit Form 2 on the Parivahan Sarathi portal and pass the online computer-based road rules test.

2

Mandatory Learning Period

Hold the valid Learner's Licence for at least 30 days before booking the permanent driving licence driving test.

3

Book Slot for Practical Driving Test

Book a test slot at the local RTO or Automated Driving Test Track (ADTT) via the Sarathi portal.

4

Take Practical Driving Test at RTO

Demonstrate vehicle control and traffic compliance before the Motor Vehicle Inspector (MVI).

5

Licence Issuance & Digital Access

Upon passing, the physical smart-card Driving Licence is mailed via post and becomes accessible on DigiLocker / mParivahan.

Related Public Online Services

Learner Licence Online Test
Permanent DL Application
Driving Licence Renewal
International Driving Permit

Related Government Departments & Ministries

All Departments

Frequently Asked Questions & Legal Clarifications

Q: Can I drive with a Learner's Licence alone?

No. Under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, an LL holder can only drive if accompanied by a person holding a valid permanent driving licence, and an 'L' board must be displayed on the vehicle.

Q: Is digital DL on DigiLocker legally valid?

Yes. As per MoRTH notifications, digital driving licences and vehicle registration certificates presented via DigiLocker or mParivahan apps are legally valid on par with physical cards for police and enforcement inspection.

Other Identity Documents & Certificates

View All (13)