Driving in India without a licence is not only risky but also illegal. Under the Motor Vehicles Act, every person behind the wheel or handlebar must hold a valid driving licence. Apart from being a legal requirement, a DL also serves as an important identity proof. Since different vehicles require different skills, there are multiple types of driving licences in India. Each one is meant for a specific category of vehicle. Knowing which licence suits your needs helps you stay safe, responsible, and compliant with the law.
A driving licence (DL) is a government-issued document from the Regional Transport Office (RTO). It certifies that you are authorised to drive a certain type of vehicle. In addition to driving rights, it is also widely accepted as ID proof. Normally, a permanent DL is valid for 20 years or until the licence holder turns 50—whichever comes first. After that, it needs to be renewed.
India follows a structured classification system based on vehicle type and purpose. Below are the major types of driving licence issued in the country:
This is the starting point for new drivers. A learner’s licence is temporary, valid for six months. It allows beginners to practice under the supervision of someone with a permanent licence. Vehicles must carry an “L” sign while learning.
After you clear your driving test, you are issued a permanent DL. This is the most common licence and gives you the legal right to drive vehicles in your approved category.
If you drive passenger vehicles or goods carriers, you will need a commercial driving license (DL). The minimum age to obtain a commercial DL is typically 20 years, and along with applying for one, you may be required to have a medical certificate and to undergo special training.
If you want to drive outside India, you must apply for an IDP. It is valid for one year and can only be issued if you already have a permanent Indian DL.
If your licence is lost, damaged, or stolen, you can apply for a duplicate one. An FIR copy and relevant documents are usually needed for this process.
| Licence Code | Vehicle Type | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| MC 50CC | Motorcycles ≤ 50cc | Scooty Pep, TVS XL |
| MC EX50CC | Motorcycles > 50cc | Splendor, Activa |
| MCWG | Motorcycles with gear (all sizes) | Bullet, Pulsar |
| MCWOG | Motorcycles without gears | Scooters, Mopeds |
| LMV-NT | Light Motor Vehicle – Non-Transport | Cars, jeeps (private use) |
| LMV-TR | Light Motor Vehicle – Transport | Taxis, delivery vans |
| HMV/HTV | Heavy Motor Vehicle | Buses, trucks |
| E-Rickshaw | Electric rickshaws | Battery-operated autos |
Each category is linked to a specific vehicle, ensuring that drivers are trained for the vehicle they operate.
The eligibility varies depending on vehicle type and purpose:
16 years: Motorcycles without gear, up to 50cc, with parental consent.
18 years: Geared two-wheelers and LMVs.
20 years: Commercial licences (may differ by state).
Medical fitness: Mandatory, especially for commercial drivers.
Learner’s licence: Must be held for at least 30 days before applying for a permanent DL.
You can apply both online and offline:
Online: Use the Sarathi Parivahan portal, fill out Form 2 or Form 4, upload documents, pay fees, and book your test slot.
Offline: Visit your nearest RTO, fill out the required forms, submit documents, pay fees, and schedule your test.
Proof of age (Birth Certificate, Aadhaar, Passport).
Proof of address (Voter ID, utility bill, rental agreement, Passport).
Passport-size photographs.
Learner’s licence (for permanent DL applications).
Medical certificate (needed for applicants over 40 years or for commercial licences).
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Learner’s Licence: 6 months
Permanent DL: 20 years or until the holder turns 50
Commercial DL: Around 3 years
International DL: 1 year
Renewal requires the old DL, Form 9, a medical certificate (if applicable), and payment of renewal fees. Late renewals may attract fines.
| Licence Type | Fee (₹) |
|---|---|
| Learner’s Licence | 150 |
| Permanent DL | 200 |
| Commercial DL | 600+ |
| International DL | 1,000 |
| Duplicate DL | 250 |
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For anyone thinking of driving in India, knowing the different types of driving licences is crucial. There are various types of licences, from a learner’s licence to commercial licences and international permits. Having the correct driving licence ensures you drive legally and helps you drive more safely. You should always keep your DL valid and up-to-date.
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There are multiple types of driving licence in India, including learner’s licence, permanent licence, commercial licence, international permit, and duplicate licence.
HMV full form is Heavy Motor Vehicle, which includes trucks, buses, and other large transport vehicles.
You need an LMV-NT licence type to drive a private car in India.
Yes, holding a learner’s licence for at least 30 days is compulsory.
A commercial driving licence is usually valid for around 3 years.
Yes, multiple vehicle categories can be added to a single DL, provided you pass the required tests.
