To ensure safety and responsibility on the road, the government issues Indian driving licences in different categories so that every driver can get proper training and recognition for his vehicle. Be it an LMV licence for a personal four-wheeler, a licence for an MCWG vehicle (Motor Cycle With Gear), or an HMV licence for a heavy commercial vehicle —there is a separate type of driving licence for each vehicle. Come, and let us know more about each type of driving licence available in India.

Types Of Driving Licences

Types of driving licences are categorised mainly into 4 categories which are mentioned below. 

1. Learner’s Licence

In India, obtaining an Indian learning licence is the initial step towards driving. It is issued to those who drive under the supervision of an instructor. To get this licence, which is valid for 6 months, one has to pass an examination. During this time, it is also necessary to put an 'L' symbol on the vehicle so that other people on the road can recognise that the driver is new.

2. Permanent Driving Licence

After the learning licence, the next step is to get a permanent driving licence LMC licence, which is also known as a light motor vehicle. Only after completing the learning period and passing the driving test can the applicant receive this LMC licence. This test tests driving skills, understanding of traffic rules, and vehicle control. The validity of a permanent driving licence is 20 years after the date of issuance or until the applicant turns 50 years old.

3. Commercial Driving Licence

This type of driving licence is required to drive a commercial vehicle, such as a taxi, bus, or truck. For this, the applicant must be 18 to 20 years of age, and he or she has to pass a medical examination to ensure that the driver can drive heavy vehicles safely. Also, it is required to renew this heavy vehicle licence every 3 years. 

4. International Driving Permit

To drive abroad, it is required to obtain an international driving permit. To get this, you must already have a permanent car licence or any other vehicle licence which you want to drive. Additionally, the international driving permit is valid for one year only, and it is mandatory to carry it while driving abroad. 

Criteria for obtaining an Indian driving licence

The following criteria are required to obtain an Indian driving licence: 

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.

• Learner's Licence: Get a learning Indian driving licence and hold it for a minimum of 30 days.

• Driving Test: Pass a driving test that evaluates your skills and knowledge of road rules.

• Documents: Provide necessary documents. 

• Fees: Pay the application fee at the Regional Transport Office (RTO).

Documents Required For Driving Licence

Don't forget to bring important documents with you when applying for a licence. Check out the list below.  

1. Identity Proof: Aadhar Card, PAN Card, or Passport.

2. Residence proof: electricity bill, water bill, or ration card.

3. Date of Birth Proof: Birth Certificate or School Certificate.

4. Passport-size photo: Normally two photos.

5. Medical Certificate: Specifically for professional licence (if required).

6. Learner's Licence: If applying for a permanent licence.

Importance Of Driving Licence 

The following are the importance of a driving licence:

1. Legal requirement: It is legally required to drive on public roads. Driving without a driving licence is considered illegal.

2. Proof of competence: This shows that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to drive safely and responsibly.

3. Insurance Coverage: A driving licence is essential for vehicle insurance and aids in the claim process in case of accidents.

4. Identification: It serves as a valid identity card in various circumstances.

5. Freedom: It provides the convenience and flexibility to travel independently.

6. Compliance with rules: It ensures adherence to traffic rules and regulations, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.

Conclusion

Different types of driving licences are available in India as per your needs and eligibility, whether you drive a two-wheeler, light motor vehicle, or commercial vehicle. Getting the right Indian driving licence is not only legally required, but it is also important for your and others' safety.

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FAQs

1. How do I apply for a driving licence in India?

You can apply for a driver's licence online or by visiting your nearest RTO office. For online registration visit the official Sarathi Parivahan portal, complete the form, upload the necessary documents, and complete the registration by paying the fees.

2. How long is a learner's licence valid?

A learner's licence is valid for 6 months in India.

3. How do I convert a learner's licence to a permanent driving licence?

30 days after getting the learner's licence, you can apply for a permanent driving licence. For this, a driving test will have to be given in RTO, and on passing a permanent licence will be obtained.