Online and Offline Guide (2024)

Advances in digital services in India have made applying for a driving license online easier than ever. Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your license, you can complete the process online or offline. Applying online is simple and can be done from the comfort of your home.

In 2023, many applications are processed online, making it a popular choice. Alternatively, you can apply offline by contacting your Regional Transport Office (RTO).

In this blog, we’ll walk you through both online and offline ways to apply for a driver’s license, so you have all the information you need to get your license quickly and efficiently.

Types of Driving Licenses in India

When applying for a driver’s license online, it is important to know the different license types available. The analysis is as follows:

License type	explanation
learner license	Issued for learning purposes, individuals may practice driving under supervision for a certain period of time before obtaining a permanent DL.
permanent driver’s license	It is issued after successfully passing a driving test and meeting other requirements to enable an individual to operate a vehicle independently.
commercial driver’s license	Issued to individuals who drive a vehicle for commercial purposes, such as transporting goods or passengers. A commercial driver’s license is required to drive a vehicle with more than 8 passengers.
international driver’s license	A legal document that allows the holder to drive in a foreign country. To obtain this permit, you must apply to your local RTO and possess a valid permanent driving licence.

License Type	explanation
learner license	Issued for learning purposes, individuals may practice driving under supervision for a certain period of time before obtaining a permanent DL.
permanent driver’s license	It is issued after successfully passing a driving test and meeting other requirements to enable an individual to operate a vehicle independently.
commercial driver’s license	Issued to individuals who drive a vehicle for commercial purposes, such as transporting goods or passengers. A commercial driver’s license is required to drive a vehicle with more than 8 passengers.
international driving license	A legal document that allows the holder to drive in a foreign country. To obtain this permit, you must apply to your local RTO and have a valid permanent driving licence.

These categories ensure that drivers are properly trained and certified for their specific type of vehicle and intended use. Always choose the correct license type based on your driving requirements.

Driver’s License Qualification Standards

The standards for obtaining a driver’s license depending on the type of vehicle are as follows.

Allowed Vehicle Types	standard
Vehicles with up to 50cc engines and no gears	6 years old; Only possible with parental consent
vehicle with gears	18 years old; Must know traffic rules and regulations
commercial vehicle	You must complete formal education through the 8th grade by age 20 (18 in some states). You must receive training from the government or a government-affiliated training center.

Allowed Vehicle Types	standard
Vehicles with up to 50cc engines and no gears	6 years old; Only possible with parental consent
vehicle with gears	18 years old; Must know traffic rules and regulations
commercial vehicle	You must complete formal education through the 8th grade by age 20 (18 in some states). You must receive training from the government or a government-affiliated training center.

Documents required to obtain a driver’s license

To apply for a driver’s license online or offline, you must submit several documents to verify your identity and eligibility. Here’s what you need:

1. Driver’s License Application-4:
   Available online and offline.

2. 6 passport photos

3. Proof of Residence: Copy of ration card, voter ID, passport or LIC policy older than 6 months.

4. Proof of age: Education certificate, birth certificate or class 10 report card.

5. Copy of valid learner’s license

6. Copy of PAN card

7. Payment fee receipt: Driving license costs ₹400/-.

How do I submit my driver’s license application online?

To apply for a driver’s license online, follow these steps:

1. Visit the official RTO website:

   1. Go to RTO website.

2. Please select a state:

   1. Click “Apply for Learner License” and select your state.

3. Complete the driver’s license online application:

   1. Complete the application, upload required documents, pay the fee and select your exam slot.

4. Take the Learner’s License Exam:

   1. Select a date to take the test and receive your Learner’s License (LL).

5. Apply for a Driver’s License (DL):

   1. After obtaining your LL, visit the Sarathi platform again, click on “Apply for DL” and submit your online application for driving license under “Hold Learner’s License”.

6. Reserve your driving test slot:

   1. After 30 days, choose a suitable time to take your driving test at RTO.

7. Pay DL issuance fee:

   1. Pay the fee online and download your confirmation.

8. Take your driving test:

   1. Visit the RTO of your choice on the date you are scheduled to take your driving license test. RTO personnel will monitor the test and record biometric information. Your driver’s license will be sent to your home address via mail.

How do I apply for a driver’s license myself?

To apply offline, please follow the instructions below.

1. Collect Form 2:

   1. Get Form 2 from your nearest RTO, download it from Parivahan website and fill out the Learner’s License (LL).

2. Submit your application:

   1. Visit the RTO with the required documents and application form. Get your application ID and slot for LL test.

3. Take the LL test:

   1. Take a preliminary test using your application ID. If you pass the test, you will immediately receive your learner’s license.

4. Select your driving test slot:

   1. Visit the RTO again in a month to select a seat for your driving test.

5. Pay for your driver’s license:

   1. Pay the required fee from RTO and receive a receipt.

6. Take your driving test:

   1. Attend your driving test as per your scheduled appointment at the RTO. Officials will collect your biometric information and your permanent DL will be sent to you via mail within a few days.

Do’s and Don’ts of Driver’s License Online Application and Offline Process

what to do	What not to do
After completing the form, check for errors or omissions.	Please do not submit incorrect documents with your application. You will be held criminally liable.
Please bring your original documents with you for your driving test.	When applying for a driver’s license, please be sure to attach a copy of your learner’s license.
Please remember that your learner license is only valid for 6 months.	Do not drive or ride (including while practicing) without a valid license or documentation.
Drive only if you have a permanent driver’s license.

what to do	What not to do
After completing the form, check for errors or omissions.	Please do not submit incorrect documents with your application. You will be held criminally liable.
Please bring your original documents with you for your driving test.	When applying for a driver’s license, please be sure to attach a copy of your learner’s license.
Please remember that your learner license is only valid for 6 months.	Do not drive or ride (including while practicing) without a valid license or documentation.
Drive only if you have a permanent driver’s license.

Ready, Set, Drive

Obtaining a driver’s license is a big step toward independence and mobility. Whether you apply for your driver’s license online or offline, make sure you have all the appropriate documents and follow the instructions. Drive safely, follow traffic rules and enjoy the freedom of the road.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)