Quick Answer: To apply for a learner's licence online, go to the Sarathi Parivahan portal, select your state, choose Apply for Learner Licence, complete Aadhaar e-KYC, upload your documents, pay the fee and pass the theory test. The licence costs around ₹200 and is valid for 6 months.
The learner's licence serves as the first milestone in the journey to receiving a driver's licence in India, and the application can be done completely online. The official Sarathi Parivahan website, which is operated by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, lets candidates fill the required form, make the relevant payment, apply for the test online and take the test from home. In many states, candidates can simply download their learner's licence from DigiLocker after passing their exam.
Overview: Learner's Licence at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Document | Learner's Licence (LL) |
| Authority | Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (Sarathi Parivahan) |
| Who can apply | 16+ for two-wheeler without gear; 18+ for other vehicles |
| Fee | About ₹200 (₹150 licence + ₹50 test) |
| Mode | Online on sarathi.parivahan.gov.in |
| Validity | 6 months from the date of issue |
Who Can Apply for a Learner's Licence and at What Age?
When applying for the driving test, it is important to meet the age requirement for the type of motor vehicle. In the case of a two-wheeler without gear (up to 50cc), one must be at least 16 years old with parental consent. Otherwise, an applicant for a car or geared two-wheeler must wait until they turn 18. When someone receives their licence, they should already know the road signs and other traffic laws as they take a written test on these matters before being awarded the licence.
What Documents Do You Need for a Learner's Licence?
You need to provide evidence of your age, evidence of where you live, pictures, and certificate of fitness at the time of application. In order to prevent last-minute issues, ensure you make clear copies of those documents.
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Age proof (birth certificate, PAN, passport, or 10th marksheet) | Confirms your date of birth |
| Address proof (Aadhaar, passport, utility bill, or ration card) | Confirms your residence |
| Passport-size photograph and signature | Printed on the licence |
| Form 1 (self-declaration of fitness) | Private vehicle, applicant under 40 |
| Form 1A (medical certificate) | Transport vehicle or applicant over 40 |
How Do You Apply for a Learner's Licence on Sarathi?
The application process can be done online through the Sarathi Parivahan website without having to go through multiple websites for various stages. Here are the steps.
- Go to the Sarathi Parivahan portal and select your state.
- Choose Apply for Learner Licence and fill Form 2 with your personal and vehicle-class details.
- Complete Aadhaar e-KYC using the one-time password sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
- Upload your documents, photograph and signature.
- Pay the fee online and note the application number.
- Book a test slot, or take the theory test from home where your state allows it after e-KYC.
What Are the Learner's Licence Fees?
On the whole, the total required fee of ₹200 for a learner licence is composed of ₹150 for applying for the learner licence and ₹50 for taking the required test under Rule 32 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules. As these fees are determined according to the central law, they are generally the same across the country; however, some states charge a little more. Since payment for learner licence is made online, there is no need to pay for the learner licence at bank counter.
What Happens in the Learner's Licence Test?
The learner's licence test is a short theory test on traffic signs, rules and safe-driving basics. It is usually 15 questions, and you must answer a set number correctly to pass, after which your licence is issued the same day. To prepare, work through the learner's licence test questions and answers, which cover the kind of questions the system asks. If you do not pass, you can retake the test, sometimes on the same portal.
How Long Is a Learner's Licence Valid and What Next?
A learner's licence is valid for 6 months from the date of issue. You must practise during this period and then apply for a permanent driving licence, which you can do 30 days after the learner's licence is issued and before it expires. When you are ready, you can apply for a permanent driving licence and book the driving test. Applying for the learner's licence itself is quick if you have your documents ready, and Jaagruk Bharat can guide you through the learner's licence application online.
