Learner's Licence (LL) in India: Types, Application Process & More

The first step to driving with confidence is obtaining a Learner’s Licence (LL). The LL full form in licence is “Learner’s Licence,” which is issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO). It allows you to legally learn driving under supervision. As per the Motor Vehicles Act, having a valid Learner’s Licence is mandatory before applying for a permanent driving licence.


Many first-time drivers often ask, 'Can I drive a bike with a learner's license, or can I drive a car with a learner's license?' The answer is yes, but only under certain conditions, which we'll cover in this article. Let's explore the types, eligibility requirements, application process, and rules you must follow when obtaining a Learner’s Licence in India.
 

Types of Learner’s Licence in India


Based on Vehicle Category
 

  • MCWOG (Motorcycle Without Gear): For scooters, mopeds, and gearless bikes.
     

  • MCWG (Motorcycle With Gear): For bikes and geared scooters.
     

  • LMV (Light Motor Vehicle): For cars, jeeps, and vans.
     

  • Commercial/Transport Vehicles:  For buses, trucks, taxis, and goods carriers.
     

  • Special Vehicles:  Such as agricultural tractors and road rollers.
     

Based on Purpose
 

  • Personal Use: Scooters, bikes, and private cars.
     

  • Commercial Driving: Goods carriers, taxis, and passenger vehicles used for business.
     

Eligibility Criteria


To apply for an LL, you must meet the following learning licence rules in India:
 

  • 16 years: For gearless two-wheelers up to 50cc (with parental/guardian consent).
     

  • 18 years: For geared motorcycles and Light Motor Vehicles (LMV).
     

  • 20 years: For commercial or transport vehicles, along with a training certificate.

 

The applicant must also be physically fit and aware of traffic signs and rules.
 

Documents Required


When applying for a Learner’s Licence, you need to submit:
 

  • Age proof: Aadhaar, Birth Certificate, Passport, or School Certificate.
     

  • Address proof: Aadhaar, Voter ID, Utility Bill, or Passport.
     

  • Medical certificate (Form 1A): Required for applicants above 40 years or for commercial LL applications.
     

  • Photograph: Passport-size photo.

 

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Application Process for Learner’s Licence


Online Process (via Parivahan Sewa/Sarathi Portal)
 

  1. Visit the Parivahan Sewa portal.
     

  2. Select your state and click on “Learner’s Licence.”
     

  3. Fill in the application form with personal and vehicle details.
     

  4. Upload scanned copies of documents.
     

  5. Pay the application fee online.
     

  6. Book a slot for the learner’s test.
     

  7. Appear for the online test at the RTO/test centre.
     

  8. If you pass, you will receive your LL digitally and later as a smart card.
     

Offline Process (via Local RTO)
 

  1. Visit the nearest RTO with documents and photographs.
     

  2. Collect and fill Form 2 (LL application form).
     

  3. Attach the required documents.
     

  4. Pay the fee at the RTO counter.
     

  5. Appear for the written or computer-based LL test.
     

  6. On passing, collect your LL from the RTO.
     

Learner’s Licence Test Details
 

  • Format: Multiple-choice questions.
     

  • Topics Covered: Traffic rules, penalties, road signs, and basic driving ethics.
     

  • Passing Criteria:  Usually, 60–70% correct answers are required.
     

  • Retest: If you fail, you can reapply and retake the test after a few days.
     

Validity of Learner’s Licence


An LL is valid for 6 months from the date of issue. If you don’t apply for a permanent DL within this period, you will need to renew it by reapplying.
 

Fees for Learner’s Licence (Indicative)


Here’s an overview of typical fees. Please check your state’s RTO website for exact charges.
 

Service

Fee (₹)

Learner’s Licence Issue

150–200

Learner’s Test Fee

50–100


Rules and Restrictions for LL Holders


Holding a Learner’s Licence comes with specific conditions. Here are the important learning licence rules in India:
 

  • Must display a clear red “L” sign on the vehicle.
     

  • Must be accompanied by a person holding a valid permanent DL, except in some categories.
     

  • Cannot drive on highways without proper guidance.

 

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Conclusion


Getting a Learner’s Licence is the first milestone in your driving journey. It not only ensures that you comply with the law but also gives you the confidence to learn driving safely. Remember to follow all the learning licence rules in India, prepare for the test, and keep your documents ready for a smooth process.
 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


1. Can I drive a bike with learning license in India?


Yes, can i drive bike with learning license, but only if you follow learner licence rules. In most cases, supervision by a permanent DL holder is required, and an “L” sign must be displayed.


2. What is the LL full form in licence documents?


The ll full form in licence is Learner’s Licence, which allows a person to legally learn driving before applying for a permanent licence.


3. Is it mandatory to display an ‘L’ sign on the vehicle?


Yes, displaying a red “L” sign is compulsory under the learning licence rules in India for both two-wheelers and cars.


4. Can I drive alone with a learner’s licence?


No. Learner’s licence holders are not allowed to drive alone. A permanent DL holder must accompany you, especially for cars and higher-capacity bikes.


5. What happens if I break the learning licence rules in India?


Violating learning licence rules in India can result in fines, licence cancellation, or disqualification from applying for a permanent licence.