Types of Driving Licence in India

Get comprehensive details about the different types of driving licence in India.
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3 min
06-August-2024

Different types of driving licence in India

In India, driving licences (DL) are issued to individuals based on the types of vehicles they are authorized to drive and their level of driving experience. Understanding the various types and categories of driving licence available is essential for operating motor vehicles on Indian roads. Let's explore the different types of driving licences issued in India.

  • Learner's licence: Learner’s licence (LL) is issued for learning purposes, allowing individuals to practice driving under supervision for a specified period before obtaining a permanent DL.
  • Permanent driving licence: These licences are issued after successfully passing the driving test and fulfilling other requirements, allowing individuals to drive vehicles independently.
  • Commercial driving licence: Commercial driving licences are issued for driving vehicles 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.

Driving licence categories and vehicle classes in India

The table below specifies the different types of licence categories in India and the corresponding class of vehicles those licence holders are eligible to drive.

Category of Licence Licence Class Type of Vehicle
Learner's Licence/Permanent Driving Licence
 MC 50CC (Motorcycle 50cc) Motorcycles with an engine capacity of 50 cc or less
MCWOG
(Motorcycle Without Gear)		 Motorcycles with any engine capacity, but without gears, including mopeds and scooters
LMV
(Light Motor Vehicle)

LMV-TR
(Light Motor Vehicle - Transport)		 Light motor vehicles that are used for non-transport/transport purposes
MC EX50CC (Motorcycles with a capacity of 50CC or more)  Motorcycles with gear, Motorcycles with a capacity of 50CC or more
MC With Gear or M/CYCL.WG (Motorcycle with Gear) All motorcycles with gear

 

 

Commercial Driving Licence

 MGV For medium goods vehicle
LMV For light goods vehicle
HMV For heavy motor vehicles
HGMV For heavy goods motor vehicle
HPMV/HTV Heavy passenger motor vehicle/Heavy transport vehicle
Trailer A heavy vehicle driving licence holder can apply for a heavy trailer licence


How to apply for a Driving Licence (DL) in India

The application process for a driving licence in India involves either visiting the nearest RTO or applying online through the state's transport department website. Applicants need to fill out the application form, submit required documents, schedule a driving test, and pass the examination.

Steps to apply for a driving licence online

  • Visit the Parivahan Sewa website to apply for your driving licence online
  • Select your state of residence.
  • 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 only some states).
  • Book your driving licence test slot (applicable for only 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.

Steps to apply for a driving licence offline

  • 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 obtain a driving licence.

Drawbacks of not owning a valid driving licence in India?

Driving without a valid driver's licence can lead to various consequences and drawbacks. Here are some key drawbacks of not owning a valid driver's licence:

  • Legal consequences: Operating a vehicle without a valid driver's licence is illegal and can result in hefty fines, penalties, and legal action. In India, driving without a licence is considered a punishable offense under the Motor Vehicles Act.
  • Safety concerns: Driving without a valid licence indicates that the individual may not have undergone proper training and assessment of driving skills. This lack of proficiency poses a risk to road safety, the driver and other road users.
  • Insurance issues: Insurance companies may refuse to provide coverage or honour claims in the event of an accident involving an unlicenced driver. Driving without a valid licence can void any existing insurance policies, leaving the driver financially liable for damages and injuries.
  • Limited mobility: Without a valid driver's licence, individuals may face restrictions on their mobility and independence. They may rely on public transportation or alternative means of travel, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming, especially in areas with limited transport options.
  • Career opportunities: Many professions require employees to possess a valid driver's licence, especially those involving transportation, delivery, or sales roles. Not having a licence can limit job prospects and opportunities for career advancement.
  • Inability to rent or lease vehicles: Renting or leasing a vehicle for personal or business use typically requires a valid driver's licence. Without it, individuals may encounter difficulties in accessing rental services, hindering travel plans or business operations.
  • Difficulty in obtaining other documents: Some official documents and permits, such as voter ID cards, passports, or PAN cards, may require a valid driver's licence as proof of identity or address. Not having a licence can complicate the process of obtaining these essential documents.

Eligibility criteria for driving licence in India

To be eligible for a driving licence in India, 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.


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.

Documents required to apply for driving licence

Applicants need to submit certain documents as proof of identity, address, and age to apply for driving licence. These include:

  • Forms: Duly filled forms of applications for learner’s licence or driving licence.
  • Learner’s licence: While applying for permanent driving licence, you will need to have learner’s licence mandatorily.
  • Proof of identity: Aadhaar card, passport, voter’s ID card, PAN card, etc.
  • Proof of address: Aadhaar card, passport, utility bills, rent agreement, voter’s ID card, etc.
  • Proof of age: Birth certificate, school leaving certificate, PAN card, passport, etc.

Fees for DL and LL

The fees for obtaining a driving licence (DL) and learner's licence (LL) vary based on the category of vehicles and the state or union territory. The fee structure is determined by the respective Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) and may include application fees, test fees, and other charges.
 

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

Address change to the DL

200

Renewal of a driving licence for which application is made after the grace period

300

Driving school licence issue and renewal

10,000

Adding another class to the DL

500

Endorsement/renewal of authorisation for vehicles to carry hazardous goods

1,000

Frequently asked questions

What is LMV and MCWG?

LMV stands for "Light Motor Vehicle," while MCWG stands for "Motorcycle with Gear." These are categories of vehicles defined by the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR) in India:

  • LMV: Light Motor Vehicle includes vehicles such as cars, jeeps, vans, and small trucks with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) not exceeding 3,500 kilograms. LMV driving licence holders are authorized to operate vehicles in this category.

  • MCWG: Motorcycle with Gear refers to motorcycles equipped with manual transmission systems. Holders of a Motorcycle with Gear driving licence are permitted to ride motorcycles and scooters with a manual transmission, commonly known as geared bikes.
What are the types of driving licence in India?

In India, driving licences (DL) are categorized based on the types of vehicles individuals are authorized to drive. The types of driving licences include:

  1. Learner's Licence (LL): Issued to individuals for learning to drive a motor vehicle. It is valid for a limited period during which the holder must gain driving experience and pass the driving test to obtain a permanent DL.
  2. Permanent Driving Licence: Once an individual successfully completes the learner's licence period and passes the driving test, a permanent driving licence is issued. It grants full driving privileges and is valid for a specified duration.
  3. Commercial Driving Licence (CDL): Required for individuals operating commercial or transport vehicles for hire or reward, such as buses, taxis, trucks, and heavy commercial vehicles.
  4. International Driving Permit (IDP): A permit that allows Indian citizens to drive motor vehicles in foreign countries, recognized under the United Nations Convention on Road Traffic.
What is LMV and HMV?

LMV and HMV are abbreviations used to categorise vehicles based on their weight and size:

  • LMV: Light Motor Vehicle, as mentioned earlier, refers to vehicles such as cars, jeeps, vans, and small trucks with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) not exceeding 3,500 kilograms.

  • HMV: Heavy Motor Vehicle includes larger and heavier vehicles such as trucks, buses, trailers, and other heavy-duty vehicles with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) exceeding 3,500 kilograms. Holding a valid HMV licence authorizes individuals to operate vehicles in this category.
Can I apply for both LMV and MCWG driving licence?

Yes, you can apply for both LMV (Light Motor Vehicle) and MCWG (Motorcycle with Gear) licenses. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for each category and complete the required application processes.

Can we use driving licence all over India?

Yes, a driving license issued in any Indian state is valid across the entire country.

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