Learner’s Driving Licence India: Online Application & Test Guide.

This is the drill for getting your learner’s driving license (LL) in India. The process has shifted heavily online, making the RTO trip the final confirmation step, not the start.

Let’s break down the rules and the reality of getting that ‘L’ plate on your vehicle.

Also read |LTCG: The Tax Trap Between Sections 54 and 54F.

 Learner’s Driving License: The All-India Guide

You need an LL before you get the full license, full stop. The LL is valid for six months, and during that time, you are only allowed to drive if an experienced, permanent license holder is sitting right next to you. And that red ‘L’ sign must be visible on the vehicle, front and back, or nothing.

Eligibility and Age Gaps

The age requirements are strict, split cause-effect is essential here:

Here’s the kicker: People over 40 years of age must submit a Medical Fitness Certificate (Form 1A) with their application. If you’re under 40, you submit a self-declaration (Form 1).

Also read |LTCG: The Tax Trap Between Sections 54 and 54F.

The Online Application Method

The Parivahan Sewa portal is where all the action happens.

1. Hit the Portal: Visit the official Parivahan Sewa website. Head straight to “Online Services,” and then “Driving Licence Related Services.” Select your State.

2. Apply for LL: Click on the “Apply for Learner Licence” section. Read the instructions. And then click ‘Continue.’

3. Fill the Form (Form 2): Fill out the application form accurately. Then, upload all the supporting documents (age proof, address proof, etc.).

4. Pay and Schedule: Pay the required fee online. And then, book your slot for the computer-based LL test.

5. RTO Visit: On the scheduled date, you must visit the RTO. Provide all your original documents to the official. They verify the legitimacy. And then, you take the test (sometimes the test is online and can be taken from home, depending on your State’s rules).

Also read |LTCG: The Tax Trap Between Sections 54 and 54F.

 The Documents You Must Carry

You cannot show up without these; your application will get rejected.

• Learning Licence Application Form 2.

• Age Proof (e.g., Birth Certificate, Passport, School Leaving Certificate).

• Address Proof (e.g., Aadhaar Card, Passport, Electricity Bill, Voter ID).

• Form 1A (Medical Certificate, mandatory for transport vehicles and applicants over 40).

• Form 1 (Self-declaration of physical fitness, for applicants under 40).

• 3 Recent Passport-sized photos.

 What to Expect in the LL Test

This is an easy test if you prepare. It’s a computer-based multiple-choice exam that checks if you know basic traffic signs and rules.

• Passing Marks: You will be asked about 15 questions. You have to answer 9 or 10 questions correctly to pass—that’s a 60-66% pass rate.

• Time Limit: You get around 30-60 seconds per question. Be prompt; you don’t have time to stare at the screen.

• The Re-Test: If you fail the first time, you can usually reappear for the test the very next day, often after paying a re-test fee. You pay the fee, and then you book a fresh appointment.

Common Hiccups and the Fix

Getting the license sounds easy, but small challenges always pop up.

• Problem: You don’t know the traffic signs. The Fix: Take the online mock tests available on the Parivahan website. They always help.

• Problem: Technical issues during the online test (slow internet, device crash). The Fix: Take the test in a quiet place with a strong connection. An active webcam is usually required to supervise the test, so ensure that’s ready.

• Problem: You failed to clear the test. The Fix: Pay the re-test fee and book a slot for the next day. The process is quick once you know what you missed.

Also read |LTCG: The Tax Trap Between Sections 54 and 54F.