How to apply for a driving license in India

In order to legally drive in India, you will need to apply for a driving license at one of the RTO offices in your city or state. The procedure is straightforward, and there are multiple ways you can do it depending on how quickly you need the license and where you live. This guide will help you learn how to apply for your driving license in India from start to finish.

Eligibility requirements

Before you can even apply for the driver’s license, there are certain eligibility requirements that you need to fulfill. For example, the minimum age requirement is 17 years and above. You also need to have attained an educational qualification such as a pass certificate of 10th or 12th class examination or equivalent grade from any other examination recognized as equivalent thereto by the Central Government. If you are an Indian National but not a resident of India, then you will require registration with the Regional Transport Office (RTO) having jurisdiction over your place of residence within 3 months from date of arrival into India.

Required documents

*Proof of identity A photocopy of your ID card (pan card, passport, driver's licence) and Aadhar card should be enough. You will also need to produce two identical passport size photos. You will also be required to furnish original documents as well if any copy has been made. 

*Proof of Address Any official form issued by the government or public utility company can be used as proof of address, like electricity bills, water bills and income tax returns.

Application process

Generally, the process of applying for a driving license involves filling out an application form and submitting it with relevant documents. The following are some steps that you may have to go through 1) Fill out the form - The application can be downloaded online or obtained from any regional transport office. It contains details such as your name, address, age, contact number etc. Along with this you will also need copies of your ID proofs such as PAN card/passport/voter ID card etc. 

2) Submit the forms - You will then need to submit these forms along with your original copy of any two photo IDs to any Regional Transport Office (RTO). 

3) Get medical examination done - You will also need to get a medical examination done at an authorized hospital or RTO office before obtaining a driver's license. These include eye tests and blood pressure tests among others.

Fees

The costs of applying for your driver's license vary depending on the kind of vehicle you intend to operate. As of 2017, the fee is INR 10,000 if you are looking to get a learner’s license. If you want an all-purpose motor vehicle licience, it will cost INR 25,000. For heavy goods vehicles and public service vehicles, the fee is INR 40,000.

Renewal process

The renewal process is not difficult, but it's good to be prepared. It is best if you renew your driver's licence at least 45 days before the expiry date. If this is not possible, then you can renew your licence as soon as possible after the expiry date.