How to Apply for a Learner's Licence
Get a Learner's Licence (LL) for two-wheelers, four-wheelers, or commercial vehicles through Parivahan Sarathi — fully online including the LL test, no RTO visit needed in most states.
- Last verified
- 21 June 2026
- Official site
- parivahan.gov.in ↗
A Learner's Licence (LL) is your first step to driving legally in India. It's issued by your state RTO under the Motor Vehicles Act and is mandatory before you can take the permanent Driving Licence (DL) test.
The whole process now runs through Parivahan Sarathi — the national transport portal. With Aadhaar e-KYC, you can complete the application, upload documents, take the LL test, and download the signed LL without visiting the RTO at all. Without Aadhaar, you'll need to visit the RTO for the test.
The LL is valid for 6 months. You must apply for the permanent DL between 30 days (cool-off period) and 180 days (LL expiry) after issue.
Eligibility
- Age 16+ for a non-geared two-wheeler (under 50cc), 18+ for a geared two-wheeler or non-transport four-wheeler, 20+ for a transport vehicle.
- You can read and write at least one Indian language.
- You are medically fit (Form 1A self-declaration; Form 1 from a registered doctor for commercial).
- You have not been disqualified from holding a licence.
Required documents
Age proof
Aadhaar, birth certificate, school leaving / 10th certificate, passport, or PAN.
Address proof
Aadhaar with current address, voter ID, electricity / water bill, passport, ration card.
Identity proof
Aadhaar, voter ID, PAN, or passport.
Passport-size photograph
Soft copy for online upload.
Form 1 / 1A medical declaration
Form 1A self-declaration for LMV; Form 1 by a registered doctor for commercial vehicles.
Step-by-step process
- 1
Open Parivahan Sarathi
Go to parivahan.gov.in and choose 'Driving Licence Related Services'. Select your state.
sarathi.parivahan.gov.in ↗ - 2
Click 'Apply for Learner Licence'
Read the instructions and click Continue.
- 3
Choose Aadhaar-based or document-based application
Aadhaar-based: fastest — eKYC fetches your details and you do a fully online LL test. Document-based: upload each proof separately and visit the RTO for the test.
- 4
Fill the application form
Enter your details, choose the vehicle class(es) you want (MCWG / LMV / MCWOG / etc.), and the RTO under whose jurisdiction you reside.
- 5
Upload documents
Upload scanned copies of age, address, identity proofs, photo, signature, and Form 1A.
- 6
Pay the fee
Pay the LL application fee + test fee online via card / UPI / net banking.
- 7
Schedule the LL test slot
Book an LL test slot — online for Aadhaar-based, at the RTO for document-based.
- 8
Take the LL test
10–20 multiple-choice questions on road signs, traffic rules, and basic driving knowledge. You need 60% to pass.
- 9
Download your LL
Pass the test → download the digitally signed LL PDF immediately. Carry it (digital or printed) until your DL is issued.
Official website
Always confirm critical details here
parivahan.gov.in
Common mistakes
- Skipping the road-sign study guide and failing the LL test by 1–2 questions — most states publish a free study guide and mock test on Parivahan.
- Choosing the wrong vehicle class — you must hold an LL for the same class you'll later attempt the DL test for.
- Mismatched address between Aadhaar and the application — application gets returned by the RTO.
- Forgetting that an LL is valid only for 6 months — apply for the permanent DL between 30 days and 180 days after LL issue.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a Learner's Licence valid?▾
6 months from the date of issue. You must apply for a permanent DL within this window (after at least 30 days).
Is the LL test online?▾
In most states with Aadhaar e-KYC enabled, the LL test can be taken fully online from home. Document-based applications take the test at the RTO.
What if I fail the LL test?▾
You can re-attempt after paying the test fee again. There's no fixed limit on attempts.
Can I drive on a Learner's Licence?▾
Only with a person holding a permanent DL for the same vehicle class accompanying you. The vehicle must display 'L' on front and back.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Government portals, document requirements, and fees can change without notice. Always verify the latest requirements on the official website before you apply. Last verified on 21 June 2026.