How to Apply for Driving Licence Online in India 2025 Guide

A Driving Licence (DL) is mandatory in India under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, to legally drive any vehicle on public roads. With the Parivahan Sewa portal, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has made the application process simple, transparent, and largely online.

This guide covers eligibility, step-by-step application, correct fees, validity rules, renewal process, and key tips for new and existing licence holders.

Eligibility for a Driving Licence in India

• 16 years: Eligible for gearless two-wheelers up to 50cc, with parental consent.
  
  

• 18 years: Eligible for motorcycles above 50cc and light motor vehicles (cars, scooters, bikes).
  
  

• 20 years: Eligible for commercial/transport vehicles.
  
  

• Medical certificate required: For age 40 and above, and for all transport/commercial licences.
  
  Also read→
  New Driving Licence Rules in India 2024–2025 What Changed?
  
  

Process to Apply Online

Step 1: Visit the Parivahan Sewa Portal

Go to parivahan.gov.in → “Driving Licence Related Services” → Select your state.

Step 2: Apply for Learner’s Licence (LL)

• Fill in the online form and upload scanned documents.
  
  

• Book a slot for the LL test (computer-based, multiple-choice).

Step 3: Take the Learner’s Licence Test

• Covers traffic signs, road rules, and safety.
  
  

• Passing marks: 60% or higher.
  
  

• Validity of LL: 6 months.

Step 4: Pay Driving Licence Fees (2025 Standard)

• Learner’s Licence application: ₹150
  
  

• LL test/repeat: ₹50
  
  

• Driving test fee (LMV): ₹300
  
  

• DL issuance fee: ₹200
   

• Smart card fee: ₹200 (state may add ₹50 service charge)

 Total for a new DL (LMV private vehicle): ₹450–₹700.
(Transport licences may cost more.)

Step 5: Driving Test

• Book a test slot online.
  
  

• Appear at the RTO with your LL.
  
  

• The practical test includes control, reversing, parking, and safety checks.
  
  

• If failed, reapply after 7 days with a repeat fee.

Step 6: Issuance of DL

• Once passed, the DL is issued as a smart card.
  
  

• Delivery takes 2–4 weeks, depending on RTO.

Validity of Driving Licence in India

• Issued below age 40: Valid for 20 years from the date of issuance.
  
  

• Age 40–50: Valid for 10 years.
  
  

• Age 50+: Valid for 5 years.
  
  

• Transport/Commercial DLs: Valid for 5 years uniformly.

A medical certificate is required for all renewals from age 40 onwards.

Renewal Rules and Late Fees

• Renewal grace period: 30 days from expiry (no late fee).
  
  

• After 30 days up to 1 year: Additional late fee of ₹300 for the first 30 days + up to ₹1,000 depending on state and vehicle type.

Required Documents

• Proof of age (Aadhaar, PAN, passport, birth certificate).
  
  

• Proof of address (utility bill, voter ID, rental agreement, passport).
  
  

• Passport-size photographs.
  
  

• Medical certificate (Form 1A) if 40+ or applying for commercial DL.
  
  

• Existing LL for fresh DL applicants.

Key Tips

• Carry original documents during verification.
  
  

• Book test slots early in metro cities.
  
  

• Use Parivahan’s mock LL test to prepare.
  
  

• Apply for renewal at least 30 days before expiry to avoid penalties.
  
  Also read→
  How to Apply for an International Driving Permit IDP from India
  
  

Final Note

The Driving Licence process is smoother than ever with online applications via Parivahan. By following the official steps, you can avoid delays and penalties.

Always confirm the latest state-specific rules and fees on Parivahan.gov.in before applying.