Understanding Learner's and Final Driver's License - Maharashtra
Highlights
One of the most common documents that a car owner should always carry with them is their DL (Driver's License). The license acts as proof of identity as well as the fact that the holder knows the ins and outs of driving a vehicle completely. To get a Learners and Permanent Driving License in Maharashtra, a few procedures must be followed. The first step of acquiring a driving license is to apply for a Learner's License. It is a temporary permit for drivers issued by the RTO. The vehicles present in Maharashtra are classified under the following subcategories:
- Light-Motor Vehicle – This category includes autorickshaws, delivery vehicles, jeeps, etc.
- Medium-Passenger Vehicle – Bulky vehicles which are used for public transportation fall under this category.
- Medium-Goods Vehicle – Vehicles that carry goods in bulk are classified as such.
- Heavy-Passenger Vehicle – Transport buses fall under this category.
- Heavy-Goods Vehicle – Big tempos and trucks are classified here.
- Road-Rolling Vehicles
Then comes the subcategory of Non-Transport Vehicles. These vehicles can be owned by people aged above 18. The permit for this covers all private vehicles. It includes:
- Gear-based Motorcycles
- Gearless Motorcycles such as Scooters & Mopeds.
- Private cars (Sedans, Hatchbacks, SUVs).
Eligibility Criteria For Getting A Driver's License In Maharashtra
The process of getting a permanent driver's license in Maharashtra is quite elaborate. Once you have learnt to drive, you get issued with a learner's license first. After getting the learner's license, you can apply for a permanent license. The duration for applying is 30 to 180 days after getting the temporary license. If you want a DL for a non-transport vehicle, you should be 18 or above. However, if you wish to get a DL for a transport vehicle, your age should at least be 20 years.
Documents Required
You need these documents to apply for a permanent driver's license in Maharashtra:
- Three Passport-Sized Photographs
- Any valid government-issued document which states your date of birth. (Birth Certificate, Voter Identity Card, PAN Card, Release Certificate from School, Passport, etc.)
- Permanent Address Proof Document (Aadhar Card, Electricity or Gas Bill)
- Application Form #4
Application Process
Maharashtra Government offers both facilities for applying, i.e., Offline and Online. Here is how you can apply:
Online:
There is a website set up by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highway which you can visit and apply. New applicants can conveniently fill up application form #4 and attach the required documents. Once done, they can schedule the test as per the availability of empty slots. Once the test is passed, the applicants get their Driving License.
Offline:
Firstly, the applicant has to identify the RTO corresponding to their address. Then they need to acquire and fill out application form #4 and submit it in their area's RTO. Once the form is verified by the authorities, the applicant gets the date assigned for their driving test. Once the applicant passes the test, they receive their DL by mail.
The process of getting a Driver's License in Maharashtra, although thorough, is not that complicated. If you are a resident of Maharashtra and want to get your official Driver's license, refer to this article and apply for one soon.