No matter what kind of vehicle you own, every driver must obtain a valid learning license to drive their vehicle on public roads. If you don’t have any, then you’re not eligible and are accountable for paying huge fines. This learning license (LL) is issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and allows the drivers/riders to learn and practice under the guidance of a permanent driving license holder.
Are you planning to apply for a learner’s license in India? If so, let’s dive into the process of acquiring a learner’s license by adhering to the government’s rules and regulations.
What is a Learner’s License & Why Is It Important?
Having said that, a learner’s license is a kind of license given by the local RTO that makes you eligible to drive on public roads under the supervision of a valid driving license holder. Not only does it enable you to drive but also ensures that you can keep on practicing until you’re sure of getting a permanent driving license.
Did you know?
As per the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988, driving without a valid learner’s license is a punishable offence.
In addition to legal compliance, having an LL can help you build road awareness like how to turn left/right, speed up, overtake, learn traffic signals, and more.
Now, let’s take an example to understand its importance!
Imagine.
You’re riding your beloved bike and suddenly run into a four-wheeler from behind. A lot of mishaps can happen. Even if you know how to ride properly, legal authorities (traffic police) still convict you and might impound your vehicle if you don’t have a learner driving license.
With a dedicated learner’s license, you will have the opportunity to learn and acquaint yourself with all the traffic rules and regulations. It can be said that it is the first step that every driver must follow to ride their beloved vehicle.
Are You Eligible For a Learner’s License? Let’s Find Out
Let’s take a look at the key points that determine whether you are eligible to apply for a learner’s license.
| Parameters | Details |
| Minimum Age (for two-wheelers under 50cc) | 16 Years |
| Minimum Age (for light motor vehicles above 50cc) | 18 Years |
| Minimum Age (for Commercial Vehicles) | 20 Years |
Note: The candidate must be in good physical and psychological condition to apply for the DL.
What are the Different Types of Learner’s License?
Here is the complete list of learner’s licenses in India.
- Motorcycles Without Gears (MCWOG)
This is the most basic license designed for learners who want to learn and practice on motorcycles without any gear. The vehicles that one can drive under this license should not be more than 50cc.
- Motorcycles With Gear (MCWG)
Another popular kind of license that one should consider is the learner’s license for motor vehicles with gears. This kind of license is designed for people looking to learn and practise on motorbikes with more than 50 cc and that too with gears.
- Light Motor Vehicle (LMV)
This kind of license covers light motor vehicles such as cars, vans, and more. This kind of license allows individuals to drive non-commercial vehicles. However, there must be a person holding a permanent driving license should be there in the vehicle with the learner.
- Commercial Vehicles (CMV)
Lastly, this kind of license is given to learners who wish to operate heavy commercial vehicles like buses, taxis, trucks, auto-rickshaws, and more. Having a learner’s license ensures you can learn and practice on commercial vehicles.
What are the Fees to Apply for a Learner’s License in India?
Let’s take a look at the fees to apply for a learner’s license in India.
| Parameters | Details (Amount) |
| Issue of learner’s license for each class of vehicle | Rs. 150 |
| The test fee for a Learner’s License | Rs. 50 |
| For test or repeat test for each vehicle class | Rs. 300 |
| Issue of a driving license | Rs. 200 |
How to Apply for a Learning Licence Online in India?
Here is the step-by-step process to apply for a learner’s license online. Let’s discuss the steps.
- Visit the official website of Parivahan Sewa (Ministry Of Road Transport & Highways).
- On the blue-coloured banner, you will see “Online Services”. Under this, click on “Driving License Related Services”.
- After that, you will need to select your state name from the list. The moment you select your state, you will see a pop-up of “Contactless Licence Services”. Close it.
- From the options, navigate “Apply for Learner’s License”. Once you find it, click on it. Then, you are required to go through the stages of application for applying for a learner’s license. Click on the “Continue” button.
- After that, Select the Category if required and then click on the “Submit” button. Then, you are required to complete the authentication with e-KYC. Select the checkbox “Submit via Aadhaar Authentication” and then click on the “Submit” button.
- In the next step, you will need to select the Adhar number. When you enter your Aadhar number. An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number. Enter the OTP and then click on all the checkboxes. After that click on the “Authenticate” Button.
- Then, you will need to Complete the given form and proceed with the test. Fix the front camera of your device and turn it on.
- Complete the test. You will have to answer at least 6 questions right out of 10 to pass the test.
Documents Required to Get a Learner's Licence in India
Here is the list of the documents needed to obtain a learner’s license in India.
- Age Proof (Include documents like Xth Class certificate)
- Address Proof (Aadhar Card, Passport, Voter ID or Electricity Bill)
- Additional Documents (Duly-Filled Application form, Passport-Sized Photographs, Application Fees, & More).
Summing up
So, that’s a wrap to the complete process of applying for a learner’s license in India. Remember that obtaining a learner’s license is the first step before you apply for a permanent DL. With a permanent DL in hand, the legal authorities will have an assurance that the driver is well aware of the traffic laws and knows how to drive their vehicle. Having said that, a person with a learner’s license implies that they are still in the learning process and are driving under the supervision of a permanent DL holder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Listed below are the frequently asked questions related to the process of applying for a learner’s license in India.
No matter how swiftly or properly you can ride your 200 cc bike, if you are below 18 years of age, the government will not grant you a learning license. Keep in mind that a person must be 18 years old to apply for a valid DL.
Yes, even after getting a learner’s license, you should clear a driving test that assures that you are eligible to drive on roads and won’t run into accidents.
No! Ensure you never do it even in your worst nightmare. Remember that there are many limitations associated with an LL. Firstly, ensure that there must be an “L” sign on the front and back side of your vehicle. If you are riding a bike, then the pillion rider must be 18+ and hold a permanent DL. On the other hand, if you are driving a car, then the person sitting next to you should hold a permanent DL.
