Getting a driving license used to be a time-consuming process that required multiple visits to the transport office. But now, thanks to digital initiatives by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, you can apply for a new driving license online from the comfort of your home.
Whether you are applying for a learner’s license or a permanent driving license, the process has been made faster and simpler in 2025. This blog will walk you through the entire procedure — from form filling, document upload, and fee payment to appointment booking for your driving test.
Let’s get started!
🚘 Types of Driving Licenses in India
Before you apply, it’s important to know the types of licenses available:
- Learner’s License (LL) – Temporary license for beginners; valid for 6 months
- Permanent Driving License (DL) – Issued after passing the test
- Commercial Driving License (CV) – For commercial vehicle drivers
- International Driving Permit (IDP) – For driving in foreign countries
🧾 Eligibility Criteria for Driving License
- Minimum Age for 2-wheeler without gear: 16 years
- Minimum Age for 2-wheeler with gear and LMV (car): 18 years
- Minimum Age for Commercial Vehicle: 20 years
- Must have a valid Learner’s License
- Should be medically fit (Medical certificate required if age > 40 or applying for CV)
📄 Documents Required for New Driving License
Make sure to keep scanned copies (in PDF/JPEG format) ready:
- Proof of Age (any one):
- Birth certificate
- PAN card
- Passport
- School leaving certificate
- Proof of Address (any one):
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID
- Utility bill (Electricity/Water/Telephone)
- Passport
- Passport-size photographs
- Learner’s License number (for permanent DL)
- Form 1A – Medical certificate (for commercial vehicle or age above 40)
🖥️ How to Apply for Driving License Online – Step-by-Step Process
Follow these steps to apply for a learner or permanent driving license online:
✅ Step 1: Visit the Parivahan Sewa Portal
- Open your browser and go to the official transport portal (Parivahan Sewa).
- Click on the “Driving License Related Services” option.
✅ Step 2: Select Your State
- Choose your respective state/UT from the dropdown.
- The portal will redirect you to the state-specific Sarathi portal.
✅ Step 3: Choose the Type of Application
You will get options like:
- Apply for Learner’s License
- Apply for Driving License
- Services on Driving License (like renewal, duplicate, address change)
Click on “Apply for Driving License (New)” for a fresh application.
✅ Step 4: Fill the Application Form
- Enter your basic details like name, date of birth, address, blood group, Aadhaar number, etc.
- Choose the license category (LMV, MCWG, etc.)
- Upload scanned documents (as listed above)
- Upload your photograph and signature if prompted
✅ Step 5: Schedule Your Driving Test Appointment
- Choose the RTO office near your location
- Pick a date and time slot for the driving test
- Confirm the appointment after checking availability
✅ Step 6: Pay the Application Fees
Pay the license fee online via UPI, debit card, net banking, or credit card.
Fees (approximate):
- Learner’s License: ₹150
- Driving Test Fee: ₹300
- Smart Card DL: ₹200
After payment, a receipt and acknowledgment will be generated.
✅ Step 7: Download Acknowledgement and Form
- Take a printout of the acknowledgment slip and fee receipt
- Keep a copy of the Form 1 or Form 1A (whichever applicable)
📆 Driving Test Day – What to Expect
On the test day:
- Reach the RTO office at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time
- Carry original documents and printed application form
- Appear for the practical test, which may include:
- Driving in 8 or H pattern for two-wheelers
- Reverse/parallel parking for four-wheelers
- Traffic signals and control understanding
✅ Tip: If you clear the test, your driving license will be processed and sent via speed post to your registered address.
📬 Track Your Application Status
You can track your DL status online through the same portal by:
- Entering application number and date of birth
- It will show real-time updates like “Under Process,” “Approved,” or “Dispatched”
📆 DL Validity Period
- Learner’s License – Valid for 6 months
- Permanent DL (Non-Transport) – Valid for 20 years or till age 40
- Commercial DL – Valid for 3–5 years
💡 Benefits of Applying Online
- Zero paperwork
- Save time and avoid long queues
- Transparent and trackable process
- Easy appointment scheduling
- Secure digital verification
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
🔹 Q1: Can I apply for both LL and DL together?
No, you must first apply for LL, and after 30 days, you can apply for the permanent DL.
🔹 Q2: Do I need to take a learning test for LL?
Yes, a basic online test will be conducted based on traffic rules and signs.
🔹 Q3: What if I fail the driving test?
You can reappear after 7 days by rescheduling through the portal.
🔹 Q4: Is Aadhaar mandatory for applying?
It is highly recommended for e-KYC but not compulsory. You can use alternative ID/address proofs.
✅ Final Thoughts
With the government’s push for digital services, applying for a driving license online in 2025 has become faster, smoother, and more transparent. No more running around RTO offices — you can now do everything from form filling to appointment booking from home.
So, if you haven’t applied for your driving license yet, this is the perfect time. Gather your documents, fill out the form, and get one step closer to the freedom of driving legally on Indian roads.
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