Car Driving Licence Test in India

In India, acquiring a car driving licence is not only a regulatory requirement but also a vital step towards ensuring road safety. The process involves a comprehensive examination of theoretical knowledge and practical driving skills. Understanding this process is crucial for individuals aspiring to obtain their driving licence. From eligibility criteria to test application procedures, this blog aims to provide a detailed guide on the car driving licence test in India, offering valuable information for a successful and responsible driving journey.

 

Types of Driving Licences in India

In India, two main types of driving licences are obtainable: The Learner's Licence and the Permanent Licence. While obtaining a Learner’s Licence typically does not necessitate a test, receiving a Permanent Driving Licence does.

1. Learner's Licence

A learner's licence is the first step in obtaining a full driving licence in India. It allows individuals to learn how to operate a vehicle on public roads under the supervision of a licenced driver. Learner's licences are usually valid for six months and are issued for specific vehicle types, such as two-wheeler or four-wheeler, depending on the applicant's choice.

 

2. Permanent Licence

A permanent driving licence is the next stage after the learner's licence. It permits individuals to drive unsupervised and is typically issued after the successful completion of a practical driving test. Permanent licences are categorised based on the type of vehicle, such as non-transport (private vehicles) and transport (commercial vehicles), and may include additional endorsements for specific vehicle categories or special conditions.

 

How to Apply for a Car Driving Licence Test

As of June 1, 2024, the laws governing driving tests in India have been updated to be more efficient and accessible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the updated procedure.

 

Traditional RTO Method

Below are the steps involved in getting a car driving licence in the traditional method.

1. Preparation: Ensure you have completed your driving training and are familiar with traffic rules and regulations.

 

2. Schedule the Test: After submitting your application and necessary documents online, schedule a test date at the Regional Transport Office (RTO).

 

3. Appear for the Test: On the scheduled date, visit the RTO and complete the theory and practical test. The theory test will consist of multiple-choice questions on traffic signals, road signs, and driving rules. The practical test, on the other hand, will involve demonstrating your driving skills on the road in the presence of an RTO official.

 

New Private Training Centres Method

Under the new rules, you can now also take the driving test at certified private driving training centres. Here’s how it works.

1. Enrol in a Certified Centre: Choose a training centre that is certified by the government.
 

2. Complete Training: These centres offer mandatory training, which includes both theoretical knowledge and practical driving sessions.
 

3. Internal Testing: After completing the course, the centre will conduct an Internal Theory Test to evaluate your understanding of driving rules and road safety and an Internal Practical Test to assess your actual driving skills.
 

4. Certification: Upon successful completion of both tests, the centre will issue a certificate, which you can use to apply for a driving licence without needing to retake the test at the RTO.

 

Advantages of the New Method

• Convenience: Ability to take the test in a more comfortable and less crowded environment.
• Comprehensive Training: Ensures you are well-prepared, as training centres focus on thorough instruction.
• Immediate Feedback: Direct assessment and feedback from training instructors.

 

Final Steps

1. Submit Certification to RTO: Use the certificate obtained from the training centre to apply for your driving licence on the Sarathi Parivahan website.

 

2. Receive Your Licence: Once verified, your driving licence will be issued, often without the need for further intervention from the RTO.

 

Note: To take full advantage of these changes, ensure that the private training centre you choose is government-certified. This certification guarantees that the centre meets specific standards in terms of facilities, instructors, and course content.  

 

Fees Structure

Below is the fee structure for driving licence-related charges.

Requirement	Amount
Issue of learner’s licence in Form 3	Rs. 150.00/-
Learner’s licence test fee	Rs. 50.00/-
Repeat test fee	Rs. 50.00/-
Issue of a driving licence	Rs. 200.00/-
Renewal of driving licence	Rs. 200.00/-

 

Note: The above listed driving licence-related fee structure is subject to change. For more accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to parivahan.gov.in.

 

Eligibility for the Driving Licence Test

To be eligible to take the car driving test in India, individuals must meet certain criteria.

• Applicants must be a minimum of 18 years old.
• Applicants must possess a valid learner's licence.
• Applicants must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of traffic rules and regulations.
• Applicants are required to apply for a permanent driving licence within 30 to 180 days of obtaining the learner's licence.

 

Documents Required for Applying for a Driving Licence

You may be required to produce the following documentation at the time of applying for a car driving licence.

- Proof of age (Birth Certificate / Attested copy of the passport)

- Proof of address (Voter's ID / Ration Card / Passport)

- Identity proof (Birth Certificate / Aadhaar Card / Voter's ID)

- Passport-sized photographs

- Any additional documents specified by the Regional Transport Office (RTO)
 

Driving Licence and Insurance

In India, it is mandatory to carry your driving licence with you while driving. It is also an essential document for making insurance claims related to motor vehicle accidents or damages. Driving with a valid driving licence is mandatory requirement for your vehicle insurance claim to be considered as valid. If you drive without a valid driving licence, you not only risk facing legal fines or imprisonment, but your insurance claim may also be rejected by your insurance provider.

 

1. What are the different types of driving licences available in India?

In India, two primary types of driving licences are obtainable: The Learner's Licence and the Permanent Licence. The Learner's Licence is the initial step in acquiring a full driving licence, while the Permanent Licence permits unsupervised driving after the successful completion of a practical driving test.

 

2. What are the eligibility criteria for the car driving licence test in India?

To be eligible for the car driving licence test in India, individuals must be at least 18 years old, possess a valid learner's licence, demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of traffic rules and regulations, and apply for a permanent driving licence within 30 to 180 days of obtaining the learner's licence.

 

3. What documents are required to apply for a driving licence in India?

The documents required for applying for a driving licence include proof of age, proof of address, identity proof, passport-sized photographs, and any additional documents specified by the RTO.