Driving Licence in Karnataka

Check how to apply for driving licence in Karnataka. Know the documents required to apply, how to check the application status, eligibility criteria, and more.
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3 min
12-April-2024

To get a driving licence in Karnataka requires a clear understanding of the application process and the necessary steps involved. Whether you're a novice driver or seeking to renew your licence, navigating the application procedure efficiently is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the process of applying for a driving licence in Karnataka. From the required documents to scheduling your driving test, we'll ensure you're well-equipped to navigate each stage seamlessly.

How to apply for a driving licence in Karnataka

The process to apply for a driving licence in Karnataka involves either visiting RTO Karnataka or applying online through the Parivahan Sewa portal. The process broadly involves filling out an application form, submitting the required documents, scheduling a driving test, and passing the examination.

Online process

  • Visit the Parivahan website to apply for your driving licence online: https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/sarathiservice/stateSelection.do
  • Select the state as Karnataka.
  • Choose the option ‘Apply for Driving Licence’.
  • Fill out the applicant details.
  • Upload the required documents.
  • Upload a photo and signature if required (applicable for some states).
  • Book your driving licence test slot (applicable for some states).
  • Pay the required fee.
  • Carry the original documents and the receipt of the fee payment when you visit the RTO for your driving test.
  • Pass the driving test to obtain a driving licence.

Offline process

  • Visit the nearest RTO (Regional Transport Office).
  • Fill out the application form and submit it along with the required documents.
  • Your application is verified and processed.
  • Once verified, schedule a slot for the driving test.
  • Pass the driving test to get the driving licence.

Types of driving licences in Karnataka

The types of driving licences in Karnataka is categorised based on the types of vehicles and the stage of driving proficiency:

  • Learner's licence: Issued for learning purposes, allowing individuals to practice driving under supervision for a specified period before obtaining a permanent DL.
  • Permanent driving licence: Issued after successfully passing the driving test and fulfilling other requirements, allowing individuals to drive vehicles independently.
  • Commercial driving licence: Issued for driving vehicles for commercial purposes, such as transporting goods or passengers. A commercial driving licence is mandatory for driving vehicles with a seating capacity of 8 or more people.
  • International driving permit: It is a legal document that allows the holder to drive in foreign countries. To get this permit, you need to submit an application at the local RTO and must have a valid permanent driver's licence.

Eligibility for driving licence in Karnataka

To be eligible for a driving licence in Karnataka, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Vehicle Type

Eligibility Criteria

Cars and Motorcycles with Gear
  • Minimum 18 years old.
  • Should be aware of traffic rules and regulations.
  • Must have valid age proof and address proof documents.

Motorcycles without Gear (engine capacity up to 50cc)
  • Minimum 16 years old.
  • Should have the consent of his guardian or parents.
  • Must be aware of traffic rules and regulations.
  • Must have valid age proof and address proof documents.

Heavy Commercial Vehicles
  • Should have cleared the 8th standard.
  • Should be above the age of 18 (20 years in some states).
  • Should be trained from any government/state-affiliated training school.

 

Documents needed for obtaining a driving licence in Karnataka

To qualify for the driving licence exam and apply for a permanent driving licence in Karnataka, you must have the following documents:

  • A valid learner's licence.
  • All necessary documents of the vehicle intended for the driving test, including Registration Certificate, Insurance Certificate, Tax Card, and PUC Certificate.' For transport vehicles, you will need the Fitness Certificate and other relevant documents.
  • If testing with a transport vehicle, a certificate in form CMV 5 issued by your Driving Training School is required.
  • A duly filled application form.
  • Recent passport-size photographs.

Fees for driving licence in Karnataka

The fees for obtaining a driving licence in Karnataka are given in the table below:

Service Type

Fee (in Rs.)

Learner’s licence test fee

50

Learner’s licence issuance

150

Repeat test (for each class of vehicle)

300

Permanent driving licence issuance

200

International driving permit issuance

1,000

Driving licence renewal

200

Driving school licence issue and renewal

10,000

Adding another class to the DL

500

 

Driving licence and motor insurance – essential requirements for vehicle owners

Your driving licence and motor insurance are closely interlinked. While your licence shows you're legally allowed to drive, your car or two-wheeler insurance covers you financially in case of unforeseen damages on the road. So, similar to driving licence, you could face penalties or legal implications while driving without a valid motor insurance, since it is a mandatory requirement for all vehicle owners in India.

Bajaj Finance Insurance Mall offers a convenient platform for you to buy or renew car insurance plans online. Compare plans and premiums offered by leading insurance partners and buy your preferred motor insurance policy in just a few clicks.

Driving licence test procedure in Karnataka

The driving licence test is conducted as per rule 15 of the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. Here’s the procedure for the driving licence test in Karnataka:

For four-wheelers:

  • Involves a ground test and a road test.
  • In the ground test, you will need to drive along the marked ‘straight T’ line and then a ‘U’ turn.
  • In the road test, you will have to drive in real-life road conditions and your knowledge about traffic rules and regulations will be tested.
  • A Motor Vehicle Inspector will conduct the tests. In case the inspector is not satisfied, you will have to reappear for the test.

For two-wheelers and three-wheelers:

  • In the ground test, you need to ride along the marked figure of ‘8’.
  • Like the four-wheeler test, the road test will check if you comply with traffic rules and regulations while riding.
  • In case the Motor Vehicle Inspector is not satisfied with your knowledge and skills, you will have to reappear for the test.

You need to prepare yourself thoroughly with the driving test procedure to increase your chances of passing the test and obtaining your driving licence.

Frequently asked questions

What are the fees for DL in Karnataka?

The fees for obtaining a driving licence (DL) in Karnataka vary depending on the type of licence and other factors.

Service Type

Fee (in Rs.)

Learner’s licence test fee or retest

50

Learner’s licence per vehicle class

150

Permanent driving licence issuance

200

International driving permit issuance

1,000

Driving licence renewal

200


However, it's advisable to check the latest fee structure on the official website of the Karnataka Transport Department.

Can I get DL without test in Karnataka?

No, it is not possible to obtain a driving licence (DL) without passing the required driving test in Karnataka. The driving test is a mandatory requirement to assess the applicant's driving skills and knowledge of traffic rules and regulations before issuing a DL.

What documents are required for DL test in Karnataka?

The documents required for the driving license test in Karnataka include:

  • Proof of identity (such as Aadhaar card, passport, or PAN card)
  • Proof of address (such as Aadhaar card, passport, or utility bills)
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Proof of age (such as birth certificate or school leaving certificate)
  • Learner's license
  • Medical certificate (for certain categories of licences)
How many days does it take to get licence in Karnataka?

The processing time to obtain a driving licence in Karnataka may vary depending on various factors such as the type of licence applied for, completion of required procedures, and the workload at the Regional Transport Office (RTO). Typically, it takes around 30-45 days to receive your driving license after successfully passing the driving test and completing all necessary formalities. However, it's advisable to check with the local RTO for the most accurate information regarding the processing time.

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