Getting a driving licence in India used to mean multiple RTO visits, long queues, and often an agent’s fee. In 2026, the Sarathi Parivahan portal has transformed the process – you can apply online, book your test slot, and receive your digital licence in DigiLocker without stepping out of your house for most steps. This step-by-step guide covers everything from Learner’s Licence to Permanent DL.
Types of Driving Licences in India – Which One Do You Need?
Learner’s Licence (LL): Valid for 6 months. Mandatory first step.
Light Motor Vehicle (LMV): For cars, jeeps – most common.
Motorcycle Without Gear (MCWG): Gearless scooters.
Motorcycle With Gear (MCWG): All gear bikes.
Transport Vehicle: Commercial vehicles, buses, trucks – separate process.
Start with LL for your vehicle class, then apply for permanent DL after 30 days.
Documents Required
Age Proof: Aadhaar card, 10th marksheet, birth certificate, or passport.
Address Proof: Aadhaar, voter ID, utility bill, passport.
Passport-size photograph (recent, plain white background).
Signature scan (on white paper).
Medical Certificate: Form 1/1A filled by a registered medical practitioner (required for LMV permanent DL).
Tip: Aadhaar-based DigiLocker verification auto-fetches most documents – keep Aadhaar linked to mobile number.
Step-by-Step: Apply for Learner’s Licence Online
1. Visit parivahan.gov.in → Sarathi Services → Select your state.
2. Click ‘Apply for Learner Licence’ → Proceed.
3. Verify identity via Aadhaar OTP or DigiLocker.
4. Fill Form 1 (personal details, address, vehicle class).
5. Upload photo and signature.
6. Select test date and slot (computer-based test).
7. Pay fee online: ₹200–300 depending on state.
8. Appear for LL test at RTO (or online in some states).
9. Pass → LL issued digitally in DigiLocker within 1–2 days.
Learner’s Licence Test – What’s Asked?
The MCQ test has 15–20 questions. Passing score: 60%.
Topics: Traffic signs and signals, road markings, right-of-way rules, penalties under MV Act, safe driving practices.
Practice resources: MORTH’s official test portal (hindi/english both), and the Sarathi app has mock tests.
Most candidates pass on the first attempt if they spend 2–3 hours on practice tests.
Applying for Permanent Driving Licence
Wait: Minimum 30 days after LL issue.
Apply online at Sarathi: Form 9 + Form 1A (medical) + documents.
Book driving test slot at your local RTO.
Driving test: Figure-8, hill start, parallel parking, and road test with RTO officer.
Pass → Smart card DL dispatched to your registered address within 7–15 days.
Digital DL available in DigiLocker immediately after approval – legally valid across India.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t apply at multiple RTOs simultaneously – it creates duplication issues in the national database.
Ensure your Aadhaar address matches your current residence, or carry additional address proof.
Don’t miss your test slot – rebooking fees apply.
For two-wheeler + four-wheeler licence, apply for both simultaneously to save time and fees.
Never pay agents for tasks available free online – the portal is fully self-serve.
Final Verdict: Applying for a driving licence online in India in 2026 is genuinely simple if you follow the steps correctly. Keep your Aadhaar mobile-linked, practice the online mock tests, and complete both LL and DL via the Sarathi portal. The entire process from LL application to receiving your permanent DL typically takes 45–60 days.
