Learner's Licence (LL) in India: Types, Application Process & More

Team AckoNov 14, 2024

Obtaining a Learner's Licence (LL) is the first milestone for any vehicle driver/rider in India. Issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO), this crucial document grants you permission to learn and practice driving on public roads. This article will guide you through the process of obtaining a Learner's Licence in India, from eligibility requirements and application procedures to the essential rules and regulations.

Contents

• What is a Learner’s Licence?
• Details Present in Learner’s Licence
• Who Can Apply for Learner’s Licence?
• Types of Learner's Licence in India
  • 1. LL for Motorcycles without Gear (MCWOG)
  • 2. LL for Motorcycles with Gear (MCWG)
  • 3. LL for Light Motor Vehicles (LMV)
  • 4. LL for Commercial Vehicles (CMV)
• Eligibility Criteria for Leaner’s Licence
• Documents Required to Get a Learner’s Licence
• Learner's Licence Fees
• Application Process for Learner's Licence
  • How to Apply for Learner’s Licence Online
  • How to Apply for Learner’s Licence Offline
• Learner's Licence Test
• Learner’s Licence Validity and Renewal
• Importance of Learner's Licence
• Difference Between Learner and Permanent Driving Licence
• Summing Up
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a Learner’s Licence?

A Learner's Licence is an official document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) that grants you legal permission to learn and practise driving on roads. It serves as a provisional licence and acts as a precursor to obtaining a permanent Driving Licence (DL).

An LL is a crucial step if you are new to driving and wish to gain the necessary skills and knowledge before acquiring a full-fledged driving licence. It provides you with the opportunity to learn and familiarise yourself with the rules of the road, traffic regulations, and safe driving practices under the supervision of a driver holding a valid DL.

Details Present in Learner’s Licence

A Learner’s Licence is an important document which consist of the following details:

• Name and age of learner’s licence holder

• Photograph

• Issuing authorit of learner’s licence

• A label specifying that it’s learner licence

Who Can Apply for Learner’s Licence?

If an individual fulfills the following criteria, they can apply for a learner’s licence in India:

• The individual should be at least 16 years to apply for light motor vehicle

• For commercial vehicle, the individual must be 20 years of age

• The individual must be 18 years to apply for non-geared motor vehicle

Types of Learner's Licence in India

In India, the LL is issued for different types of vehicles based on their category and usage. Let's explore the various types of Learner's Licences in India.

1. LL for Motorcycles without Gear (MCWOG)

This type of Learner's Licence is for individuals who wish to learn and ride motorcycles without gears, commonly known as scooters or mopeds. It is applicable for two-wheelers with an engine capacity of up to 50cc. Learners must adhere to specific restrictions, such as avoiding high-speed roads and carrying a pillion rider.

2. LL for Motorcycles with Gear (MCWG)

The MCWG Learner's Licence is required for those aspiring to ride motorcycles with gears. It is valid for motorcycles with an engine capacity exceeding 50cc. Learners must practise riding with caution and follow the rules and regulations specific to motorcycles.

3. LL for Light Motor Vehicles (LMV)

This type of Learner's Licence covers light motor vehicles, including cars, vans, etc. It enables individuals to learn and drive non-commercial vehicles with a capacity not exceeding a specified limit. Learners must be accompanied by a person holding a valid Driving Licence for the respective vehicle category.

4. LL for Commercial Vehicles (CMV)

Drivers who wish to operate commercial vehicles like buses, taxis, goods carriers, or auto-rickshaws must obtain a Learner's Licence for commercial vehicles. This licence permits them to learn and practice driving such vehicles, ensuring they gain the necessary skills and knowledge required for safe and responsible commercial driving.

The following table lists the various types of LL in India to give you a better understanding of the same.

Eligibility Criteria for Leaner’s Licence

To apply for a Learner's Licence in India, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria.

Minimum age requirement: 16 years for two-wheelers under 50cc (with parental consent); 18 years for motorcycles without gear and light motor vehicles; 20 years for commercial vehicles.

For transport vehicles, the applicant must have held a Driving Licence for at least one year.

The applicant should be mentally and physically fit to drive a vehicle.

Documents Required to Get a Learner’s Licence

Applicants must provide the following documents while applying for a Learner's Licence.

Proof of age (birth certificate, school certificate, etc.)

Proof of address (passport, utility bills, etc.)

Proof of identity (Aadhaar card, PAN card, etc.)

Passport-sized photographs.

Form 1A/Medical Certificate (if applicable)

Duly filled application form (Form 2)

Learner's Licence Fees

The fee for a Learner's License for a particular vehicle class amounts to Rs. 150. Apart from that, you must also pay a test fee of Rs. 50. Applicants are required to pay this fee while submitting the documents and application form.

Application Process for Learner's Licence

You can apply for an LL in India through two methods: online and offline. The following sections explain both processes.

How to Apply for Learner’s Licence Online

You can follow these steps to apply for an LL online in India.

Step 1: Visit the Parivahan Sewa website

Access the official website of the Parivahan Sewa.

Step 2: Select the "Online Services" section

On the Parivahan Sewa homepage, look for the "Online Services" tab and click on it.

Step 3: Choose your state

From the drop-down menu, select your state or union territory. It will redirect you to the respective State Transport Department's online portal.

Step 4: Look for the "Apply Online" option

On the State Transport Department's online portal, search for the "Apply Online" or "Learner's Licence" option. Click on it to proceed with the application process.

Step 5: Fill in the application form

You will be directed to the Learner's Licence application form. Fill in the required details accurately, including personal information, contact details, address, and identification particulars. Provide information about the type of LL you are applying for, such as MCWOG, MCWG, LMV, or CMV.

Step 6: Upload the necessary documents

Scan or take photographs of the required documents, such as proof of age, address, and identity. Upload these documents as per the specifications mentioned on the portal. Commonly requested documents include an Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, utility bills, and school certificates.

Step 7: Book a slot for the Learner's Licence test

Once you have submitted the application form and uploaded the documents, you will be given the option to book a slot for the LL test. Select a convenient date and time for the test from the available options.

Step 8: Pay the application fee

Pay the prescribed LL application fee online using the available payment methods on the portal. The fee may vary depending on the state and the type of Learner's Licence you are applying for.

Step 9: Download and print the application receipt

After successful payment, download and print the application receipt or acknowledgement. This receipt will serve as proof of application and can be used to track the status of your LL application.

Step 10: Visit the RTO for the Learner's Licence test

On the appointed date and time, visit the Regional Transport Office (RTO) specified on the application portal to appear for the LL test. Carry the necessary documents, including the application receipt, original identification proofs, and photographs.

How to Apply for Learner’s Licence Offline

Applying for a Learner's Licence offline involves visiting the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in person and following a set of steps. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for an LL offline:

Step 1: Gather the necessary documents

Collect all the required documents for the Learner's Licence application. It typically includes proof of age, address, and identity, along with passport-sized photographs. Ensure that you have both the original documents and photocopies.

Step 2: Obtain the application form

Visit the nearest RTO or State Transport Office and ask for the LL application form. You can also download the form from the respective State Transport Department's website and fill it out in advance to save time at the RTO.

Step 3: Fill in the application form

Carefully fill in the application form with accurate details. Provide your personal information, contact details, address, and identification particulars. Indicate the type of LL you are applying for, such as MCWOG, MCWG, LMV, or CMV.

Step 4: Attach the required documents

Attach the necessary documents to the application form. These may include proof of age (birth certificate, school certificate, etc.), proof of address (passport, utility bills, etc.), proof of identity (Aadhaar card, PAN card, etc.), and passport-sized photographs. Ensure that the photocopies are clear and legible.

Step 5: Pay the application fee

Pay the Learner's Licence application fee at the designated counter of the RTO. The fee amount may vary depending on the state and the type of LL you are applying for. Obtain the receipt as proof of payment.

Step 6: Submit the application form and documents

Submit the filled application form, along with the required documents and the fee receipt, at the specified counter. The RTO officials will verify the details and process your application.

Step 7: Book a slot for the Learner's Licence test

After submitting the application, you will be given a slot for the LL test. The RTO will provide you with the date and time for the test. Make a note of this information.

Step 8: Prepare for the Learner's Licence test

Study the traffic rules, road signs, and driving principles thoroughly to prepare for the Learner's Licence test. Familiarise yourself with the important aspects of safe driving and traffic regulations.

Step 9: Appear for the Learner's Licence test

On the scheduled date and time, visit the RTO to appear for the LL test. Bring the necessary documents, such as the application receipt, original identification proofs, and photographs. Follow the instructions provided by the RTO officials for the test.

Step 10: Obtain the Learner's Licence

If you pass the LL test, the RTO will issue you a Learner's Licence. It will be valid for a specific period, usually six months. Collect the LL from the designated counter.

Learner's Licence Test

The Learner's Licence test aims to assess the applicant's knowledge of traffic rules, road signs, and general driving principles. The test may include a written exam or a computer-based test, depending on the state or union territory. It typically covers topics such as traffic regulations, vehicle controls, road signs, and basic driving principles.

Learner’s Licence Validity and Renewal

An LL is valid for six months from the date of issuance. To obtain a permanent Driving Licence, applicants must apply after the initial 30-day period of holding a Learner's Licence. If the LL expires, individuals must renew it by paying the requisite fee and submitting the necessary documents.

Importance of Learner's Licence

The Learner's Licence serves as a foundation for developing competent and responsible drivers. Its significance can be summarised in the following points.

Road Safety: Obtaining a Learner's Licence ensures that individuals acquire the necessary knowledge of traffic rules and road safety measures. It helps in creating a culture of responsible driving by imparting awareness about road signs, right-of-way, and defensive driving techniques.

Skill Development: A Learner's Licence allows aspiring drivers to gain practical experience behind the wheel under the guidance of a licensed driver. It enables them to develop essential driving skills such as steering control, braking, and understanding vehicle dynamics, gradually improving their proficiency.

Awareness of Traffic Regulations: The LL test familiarizes applicants with traffic regulations, instilling a sense of responsibility towards obeying traffic rules. This knowledge contributes to the overall discipline and order on the roads, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring smooth traffic flow.

Confidence Building: Learning to drive can be a daunting experience for many. The Learner's Licence provides a structured framework for beginners to gain confidence in their driving abilities. By progressively acquiring practical skills and theoretical knowledge, individuals build self-assurance, leading to safer and more confident driving practices.

Legal Compliance: Driving without a valid licence is a punishable offence under Indian law. The LL ensures that individuals comply with legal requirements and avoid unnecessary penalties or legal complications. It also serves as an identification document while learning to drive.

Insurance Coverage: Most insurance policies in India require the driver to possess a valid Driving Licence. Holding an LL ensures that individuals can avail themselves of the necessary insurance coverage while practising driving, safeguarding against potential liabilities.

Difference Between Learner and Permanent Driving Licence

While a learner licence is issued to those who are still learning how to drive, a Permanent licence is meant for those who have successfully passed the driving test. The key differences between the table are illustrated below:

Summing Up

Thus, learner’s licence is best for those who are in the learning stage of driving a vehicle. Those who wish to apply for this license must fulfill the eligibility criteria and apply at a nearby RTO.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are a few common questions and their answers related to the Learner’s Licence in India.

Can a 17 year old get a learning licence in India?

You must be atleast 16 years of age to apply for learning licence in India. 

Can we put L on a car?

Yes, if you have a learner’s licence, then you can put ‘L’ on your car. 

How many times can a learner licence be renewed in India?

You cannot renew a learner licence in India, it can only be re-applied.

Can I drive bike with learning license?

Yes, you can drive a bike with learning licence. 

Can I apply for a Learner's Licence online?

Yes, the option to apply for an LL online is available in many states in India. The online application allows for a convenient and streamlined process, saving time and effort. However, it is advisable to check the specific online services provided by the respective State Transport Department or Regional Transport Office (RTO) in your state.

Do I need to pass a test to obtain a Learner's Licence?

Yes, passing an LL test is mandatory. The test assesses your knowledge of traffic rules, road signs, and driving principles. The test format can vary between written exams and computer-based tests, depending on the state. It is essential to prepare adequately by studying the relevant traffic rules and regulations.

How long is a Learner's Licence valid?

The validity of an LL stands at six months. During this period, learners can practise driving and gain practical experience before applying for a permanent Driving Licence.

Can I drive alone with a Learner's Licence?

No, an LL comes with certain restrictions. Learners are required to be accompanied by a person holding a valid Driving Licence for the respective vehicle category. They must also display the 'L' (learner) sign on the vehicle. Additionally, learners are advised to adhere to specific restrictions, such as avoiding high-speed roads and carrying a pillion rider (if applicable).

Can I upgrade my LL to a permanent Driving Licence?

Yes, after holding a Learner's Licence for a specific duration (usually 30 days), individuals become eligible to apply for a permanent DL. To obtain a permanent Driving Licence, learners must pass a driving test conducted by the RTO. The permanent DL allows individuals to drive without any restrictions within the vehicle category for which they have qualified.

Explore More:

• How to Transfer Vehicle Ownership (Online/Offline)?

• Types of Driving Licences in India

• How to Link Your Aadhaar Card and Driving Licence

• How to upload Driving Licence and RC in Digilocker and mParivahan?

Disclaimer: The above content is for informational purposes only. It is recommended to take the help of an expert before making a decision.

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