Being able to drive legally requires more than just learning the ropes. Driving requires a valid driver's license. Among the many crucial components of safe driving is familiarity with traffic laws, road signs and symbols, and, of course, the need to keep oneself and other drivers safe. Legally operating a motor vehicle in India requires a current driver's license (DL). Nobody is going to be able to get behind the wheel of a public vehicle without a current license, according to the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. There is a legal penalty for this.
Types of Driving Licenses in India
A single license cannot cover the wide variety of cars seen on Indian roadways. The various driver's licenses offered by the Regional Transport Authority will be covered in this section.
Learner's License
To reiterate, this license is given to those who wish to apply for a driver's license that is valid for life. A learner's or provisional driver's license is issued when an application is filled out at a Regional Transport Office (RTO) that is particular to an individual's location. From the date of issuance, this license is valid for 6 months. The individual must ensure that they have reviewed driving safety procedures, become familiar with traffic signs, symbols, and terminology, and apply for a permanent driver's license. After thirty days of training, they will be eligible to apply for a permanent driver's license.
Permanent Driving License
Those who have completed the RTO's written and driving tests are granted this license. Possession of this type of driver's license attests to the holder's familiarity with the rules of the road and their ability to safely operate a small motor vehicle. This license is valid for 20 years starting from the date it is issued or until the license holder turns 50 years old, whichever comes first. They will need to reapply for the driving test, which is essentially the renewal process after this time has passed. Be advised that this license is also applicable to anyone who operates light motor vehicles to transport passengers. This is in contrast to the past when a separate business driver's license was necessary.
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Commercial Driving License
For commercial uses, such as carrying passengers or goods, drivers of heavy, medium, and light goods transport vehicles are required to have a special driver's license. This license has different requirements than the previous two. In addition to having completed the eighth grade, being at least 18 years old (or 22 in certain states) and receiving training from a government motor school or a school affiliated with a state government are all requirements.
Because the driver is solely responsible for the safety of the products and passengers, operating large vehicles demands a high level of ability and training. The validity of this license is three years; after that, it must be renewed because it is provided to drivers depending on their skill. They will follow the identical application procedure as for a Permanent Driver's License, with the exception that they are seeking a Commercial Driver's License. This type of license is also available to those who already have a permanent driver's license.
International Driving Permit
Those who wish to drive while traveling internationally are granted this permit. Holding a valid driver's license and being eligible to drive in foreign areas are both confirmed by this permission. For the benefit of the authorities, this permit is printed in multiple languages. A valid permanent driver's license and an application to the local RTO are prerequisites for this license. You will need to reapply for this permission after one year because it cannot be renewed.
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What is RTO?
The Regional Transport Office (RTO), formerly the Regional Transport Authority of India (RTA), is under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. The government-run RTO handles vehicle services and maintains the driver-car database. The RTO operates under the Motor Vehicles Act of India, 1988, and has offices in every State and Union Territory of India and many DTOs or District Transport Offices.
RTO Responsibilities
- The Regional Transport Office issues and renews driving licenses.
- All new vehicles must be registered at the local RTO before receiving a license plate.
- Helps transfer car ownership or Registration Certificate (RC).
- Maintains a vehicle and driver database that provides vehicle information by registration number.
- Issues car-related documentation such as NOC (No Objection Certificate) for interstate vehicle transfers, Trade certificates, and Fitness certificates.
- Collects road tax during car registration.
- Checks the vehicle for Motor Vehicles Act compliance.
- Performs vehicle testing, PUC certificate testing, and CNG/LPG kit installation to control pollution.
- Issues commercial/transport vehicle permits.
- Ensures road safety by installing safety signs, improving road conditions, and raising awareness.
Documents Necessary for Driving in India
Driving License
Every car owner needs a license. Individuals who own four-wheelers must have a driving license. A learner's license is issued while applying for a license. A permanent license can be obtained after passing the driving exam. A driver must always carry their license.
Car Insurance
Everyone must insure their car. Third-party insurance is required, but extensive coverage is available. Comprehensive automobile insurance covers self-damage and third-party damage following a crash. Carry your auto insurance certificate while you drive. Comprehensive and third-party car insurance can be purchased online in minutes.
Car Registration Certificate
Buying a car requires mandatory registration. RC certificates are issued upon vehicle registration. Drivers can get registration certificates at Regional Transport Certificates. However, one must register their automobile within seven days of purchasing. Once issued, the registration certificate can be kept in the car at all times.
Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate
The PUC certificate is obtained after passing the emission test. Usually, petrol outlets undergo PUC tests. The purpose of the PUC Certificate is to guarantee car satisfies pollution control standards. PUC certificates must be carried by car owners and presented when needed. A heavy fine may come from not carrying the PUC certificate.
Necessary Permits
Special permits are needed for commercial vehicles. Fitness certificates are mainly requested for specific automobiles. The fitness certificate should determine if the car is roadworthy.
How to Obtain a Driving License in India
The eligibility criteria for a permanent driving license differ depending on the type of vehicle. As a result, you should apply for the proper sort of license based on the vehicle you plan to drive. The eligibility requirements for driving licenses for various vehicle classes are outlined here.
- A vehicle without gears with an engine capacity of up to 50cc
- The applicant must be at least sixteen years old.
- Consent from parents/guardians is also required.
- Vehicle with Gears
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- The candidate must be acquainted with the traffic rules and regulations.
- Commercial vehicles
- The applicant must be at least 20 years old (18 years in some areas).
- Must be trained in government or state-sponsored specialized training institutes.
Necessary Documents for DL Application in India
- Age proof
- Birth Certificate
- PAN Card
- Passport
- Class 10 mark sheet
- Transfer certificate from any school for any class with the date of birth printed on it.
- Permanent proof of address
- Passport
- Aadhaar Card
- Self-owned house agreement
- Electricity Bill (issued in applicant's name)
- LIC Bond
- Voters ID Card
- Ration Card
- Current proof of address
- Rental agreement and electricity bill
- Rental agreement and LPG bill
- Duly filled application form
- Passport-sized photographs
- Medical certificate (mandatory for applicants over the age of 40 years)
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Application for Driving License in India
Step 1: Learner's License
A permanent driving license is not issued directly; instead, you must first obtain a learner's license. To obtain a learner's license, you must be at least 18 years old, literate, and physically healthy.
Step 2: Permanent Driver's License
The Learner's License is valid for 6 months across India from the date of issue. During this time, you can practice driving or seek a permanent driver's license after a month. To apply for a driver's license, follow the steps outlined below:
- Visit the portal.
- Select your state.
- Choose the Driving License option.
- Fill out the application.
- Upload your documents.
- Schedule a driver's test.
- Pay the fees.
- Verify the payment status.
- Get a printout of the receipt.
- Pass the driving exam.
- Receive your Permanent Driver's License via speed post.
- If you fail your driving exam, you can reapply after seven days.
Once you acquire a permanent driver's license, you can apply for a commercial license. The criteria for a Commercial Driving License differ from those for a Permanent Driving License. The candidate must be between the ages of 18 and 20, have completed their eighth grade, and have a certificate proving that they learned to drive at a government-certified driving school. Because driving transport vehicles demand a high level of ability, these licenses are renewed every three years. Where the candidate goes through the entire process again.
A driver's license is one of the most important milestones for all new drivers. It allows you to drive on Indian roads and enjoy the freedom of the road at your own pace. The process of obtaining a driver's license in India is straightforward, with a learner's license required before being eligible for a permanent driving license. After passing your driving test at the RTO or a recognized driving school, you will acquire your driver's license and become road-legal!
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