How to obtain a Driving Licence in India: Documents Required, Fees, FAQs and More

It is an essential document that serves as identity proof like the Aadhar card and voter card. The driving licence is issued by the Indian government, which permits the individual to drive any kind of vehicle. The RTO or the RTA is responsible for administering the driving licence in India.

Having a driving licence has now become necessary more than ever. In 2020, when a pandemic struck the whole world, social distancing became the prevalent lifestyle. As a result, the need to get public transport has lessened and instead a large number of people are opting for private vehicles to go to their destination.

The Indian government has made the driving licence mandatory to drive any two-wheeler or four-wheeler. Having motor training knowledge is necessary before you hit the road with any vehicle. That is why one needs to enrol his or her name in a driving school. On the other hand, the licence permits the vehicle owner to drive the car on the roads legally. In India, it is the Regional Transport Authority, or the RTO, that helps the citizen in issuing an authentic Driving Licence.

Feature of an authentic Driving Licence

To avoid the tiring and lengthy process of getting a driving licence, some people prefer to hire touts instead although this leads to them getting fake licenses. There are certain features that you can lookout for a fake and genuine driving licence. The licence has a unique registration number that varies from applicant to applicant. The card holds the name of the office of its issuance and finally the stamp and the signature of the issuing officer and the RTO.

Types of Driving Licences

There are 3 types of driving licences that any Indian driver can choose to obtain, namely the Learner's licence, Permanent licence and the Commercial driving licence. The learner's licence is when you are under the surveillance of an experienced driver and learning how to drive. After 30 days of the learner's licence, you can apply for a permanent one once you pass the test. The commercial driving licence is issued explicitly to the heavy vehicle drivers.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria depend upon the class of vehicle you want to drive and the type of driving licence you want to obtain. People of 16 years or above can only apply for vehicles without gears and an engine capacity up to 50 cc. An individual of 18 years of age who needs to be aware of all the traffic rules and regulations can apply for normal vehicles. Any person who is of 20 years or more can apply for a commercial vehicle licence.

Fees for Driving licence and learner's licence

The applicants can pay their fees through SBI challans or online. The fees vary according to the licence issued. For example, if you are applying for a new driving licence, it will cost you 200 bucks, whereas the renewal can cost you 5000 to 7000 rupees.

Documents to present

While you are applying for a driving licence, you need to present various documents, whether offline or online. For example, you must submit the Aadhar card/voter card/ birth certificate to prove your age. These documents can serve as the proof of your address, while you can also provide the learner's licence, your passport size photograph and the application form no. 4.

FAQs on Driving licence

1. Can anyone reapply for the driving test in case of failing the previous test?

Yes, anyone can reapply within 7 days.

2. How long is the DL valid for?

The driving licence is valid for 20 years, whereas the commercial driving licence is valid for 3 years and is renewable.

3. Is the Driving licence Valid across the country?

Yes, it is valid across the country.

Conclusion

Driving has become an indispensable part of our lives. But you need to be careful while you are driving on the road. It requires following proper skills. A driving licence is a permit that you can get only after passing every driving test. This knowledge is very necessary for you and for others too.