Driving in Delhi requires a valid driver's licence. The Delhi Transport Department is responsible for issuing driver's licences and ensuring that candidates fulfil all legal and traffic safety requirements. Knowing the steps can make the process easier, whether you're renewing a current licence, transferring your licence to Delhi, or applying for a new one. This article thoroughly examines the procedures for getting a driver's licence in Delhi.
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Types of DL in Delhi
Based on the kind of vehicle the applicant plans to drive, Delhi issues various Driving Licences (DL). Below is a summary of the various types of driver's licences that are available:
Learner's Licence (LL)
The DL procedure begins with a learner's licence. This temporary licence, suitable for six months, is given to people learning to drive. The holder can practice driving during this time under specific limitations and prepare for the driving exam needed to obtain a permanent licence.
Permanent Driving Licence (DL)
A permanent driver's licence (DL), which enables independent driving on public roads, can be obtained by applicants who have successfully held a learner's licence for at least 30 days and passed the driving test.
Commercial Driving Licence (CDL)
Commercial drivers must have a licence to operate trucks, buses, and taxis. The CDL qualifying requirements are more demanding because of the responsibility involved in operating larger vehicles.
International Driving Permit (IDP)
With an International Driving Permit, Indian nationals can drive in nations that accept the IDP. For tourists and foreigners living abroad, this is an invaluable document.
How to Apply for a Driving Licence (Online/Offline) in Delhi
In Delhi, applying for a DL requires first acquiring a learner's licence, then passing the driving test and receiving a permanent licence. Online or offline completion of the entire process offers ease and flexibility.
How to Apply for a DL Online in Delhi
Applying online offers the convenience of managing the application from home. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Visit the official portal of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Step 2: Once on the website, select "Delhi" from the drop-down menu to proceed with the application.
Step 3: Applying for a Learner’s Licence
Step 4: Fill out the learner's licence application form, providing personal details such as name, address, date of birth, and blood group.
Step 5: Upload scanned copies of the required documents, such as proof of age and address, and select a date for the learner's licence test.
Step 6: Pay the required application fee online, which confirms your booking for the learner’s test.
Step 7: Visit the chosen RTO on the scheduled date to take the learner’s test, which evaluates your knowledge of traffic rules, road signs, and safety practices.
Step 8: If you pass, the learner’s licence will be issued and can either be downloaded or received via email. It will also be sent to your registered address if requested.
Step 9: You can apply for a permanent licence by completing Form 4 and making the necessary online payment after having the learner's licence for at least 30 days.
Step 10: Select a day for the RTO to administer the driving test.
Step 11: Bring your car to the RTO for the driving test on the appointed day. This test consists of several components: parking, following traffic signs, and exhibiting fundamental driving abilities.
Step 12: Should you pass, you will receive your permanent driver's licence within a few days, which you may pick up at the RTO or send to your registered address.
How to Apply for a DL Offline in Delhi
The offline application process requires going to the RTO if you want to apply in person:
Step 1: Find the closest RTO office and pick up the required paperwork, such as Form 2 (Application for Learner's Licence) and Form 1A (Medical Certificate).
Step 2: Complete the application forms accurately and include supporting documentation, such as identification and proof of address.
Step 3: Fill out the application fee payment form and send passport-sized photos for validation.
Step 4: Set the test date after the learner has turned in the paperwork. Traffic laws, safety standards, and road signs are the main topics of the test.
Step 5: Should you pass the exam, your learner's licence will be forwarded to your registered address or issued right away.
Step 6: Fill out Form 4 for a permanent licence at the RTO after you have held the learner's licence for at least 30 days. This is also the time to set up a date for the driving test.
Step 7: Show your driving prowess by showing up for the driving test at the RTO. The RTO will issue your permanent DL if you pass.
Driving Test Procedure in Delhi
A valid Learner's Licence (30-180 days) and 18 years old are prerequisites for obtaining a permanent driving licence in Delhi. Send your application through your local RTO or the Parivahan Sewa Portal, along with the necessary paperwork and payment. Candidates must show their driving prowess and understanding of traffic laws by passing a structured driving exam administered by the Regional Transport Office (RTO).
Two-Wheelers and Three-Wheelers Driving Test
Vehicle Manoeuvres: To show mastery, precision, and control of vehicle handling, execute specific patterns, like the 'H' or 'T's.
Traffic Driving Assessment: Assess your driving skills by driving in real-world situations and demonstrating compliance with traffic laws, signs, and general safety regulations.
Parking Proficiency: Show off your mastery of parallel and reverse parking, among other parking strategies.
Conditions for the Test Day:
Documents: Bring your original driver's licence, acknowledgement receipt for the test application, evidence of fee payment, and documents proving your car's registration and insurance.
Vehicle Condition: The test vehicle must meet all safety requirements and be in top operating condition.
The post-test process:
Result: Get prompt feedback from the examiner.
Re-Test: After seven days of waiting, you may reapply if the test is not cleared.
Licence Issuance: Successful candidates will receive their driving Licence by post.
Four-Wheelers Driving Test
Vehicle Manoeuvres: Perform specific requirements such as 'H' or 'T' patterns to demonstrate control, accuracy, and understanding of vehicle handling.
Traffic Driving Assessment: Drive in actual traffic conditions, showcasing adherence to road signs, traffic rules, and overall road safety.
Parking Skills: Demonstrate proficiency in various parking techniques, including parallel and reverse parking.
Test Day Requirements:
Documents: Ensure you bring your original Learner's Licence, test application acknowledgement receipt, proof of fee payment, and vehicle insurance and registration papers.
Vehicle Condition: The test vehicle should be in excellent working order and meet all safety criteria.
Post-Test Procedure:
Results: Receive immediate feedback from the examiner.
Re-Test: If the test is not cleared, you may reapply after a waiting period of seven days.
Licence Issuance: A successful test ensures your Driving Licence will be sent to you via post.
How to Check Driving Licence Application Status in Delhi
To check the status of your driving licence application in Delhi, follow these steps:
Step 1- Visit the Sarathi Parivahan Portal: Go to the official Sarathi Parivahan website.
Step 2- Select Delhi: On the homepage, you'll find a dropdown menu labelled "Select State Name." Choose "Delhi" from the list.
Step 3- Access Application Status: You'll be redirected to the state's specific portal after selecting Delhi. Click on the "Application Status" option in the top menu bar.
Step 4: Enter Necessary Information. Your application number and birthdate will be asked for. Be careful to keep these facts close at hand.
Step 5: Submit and View Status: Click "Submit" once you've filled out the required fields. The screen will show your application status.
DL Fees in Delhi
The RTO standardises the fees for various driving licence services in Delhi. Here is an outline of the fees:
Purpose
Applicable for
Amount
Issue of Learner’s Licence (Form 3) for each class of vehicle
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹150
Learner’s Licence Test Fee or Repeat Test Fee
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹50
Driving Test Fee (for each class of vehicle)
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹300
Issuance of Driving Licence
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹200
Issuance of International Driving Permit
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹1000
Addition of another class of vehicle to the Driving Licence
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹500
Endorsement or renewal of authorisation for vehicles carrying hazardous goods
Four-wheeler (commercial)
₹1000
Renewal of Driving Licence
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹200
Renewal of Driving Licence after grace period
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹300 + ₹1000 per year of delay
Issue or renewal of licence to a school/establishment for driving instruction
Not vehicle-specific
₹10000
Issue of duplicate licence to a school/establishment for driving instruction
Not vehicle-specific
₹5000
Appeal against orders of licensing authority
Not vehicle-specific
₹500
Change of address or other particulars in Driving Licence
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹200
Eligibility Criteria for Applying for a Driving Licence in Delhi
To apply for a DL in Delhi, specific eligibility requirements must be met, which vary depending on the vehicle type and the type of licence:
Vehicle Type
Eligibility Criteria
Motorcycles without Gear
(e.g., scooters, mopeds, engine capacity up to 50cc)
Must have valid age proof and address proof documents.
Motorcycles with Gear & Cars
Minimum 18 years old.
Must be aware of traffic rules and regulations.
Must have valid age proof and address proof documents.
Heavy Commercial Vehicles
Minimum 20 years old with at least one year of experience driving a light motor vehicle.
They must have cleared the 8th standard.
Required training from a government/state-affiliated training school.
Medical Fitness
Mandatory medical certificate for applicants over 50 or those applying for a commercial licence.
A registered medical practitioner should issue the certificate.
Traffic Rules Knowledge
Applicants should know traffic rules, road signs, and general safety norms.
This knowledge is essential for passing the learner's test.
Meeting the eligibility criteria is crucial to proceed with the application process for any type of DL, including a Smart Card Driving Licence (DL). A Smart Card Driving Licence (DL) is an upgraded, secure version of the traditional driving licence designed for better durability and data management. Individuals must meet these criteria to apply for a driving licence in Delhi.
Documents Required for Driving Licence Application
You can apply for a duplicate in Delhi if your driver's licence is lost, broken, or vandalised. Completing the necessary application processes and submitting specific papers are part of the process. Everything you need to know is as follows:
Documents Required for a Learner’s Licence:
Proof of Age (one of the following):
Birth Certificate
School Leaving Certificate
PAN Card
Passport
Proof of Address (one of the following):
Voter ID Card
Aadhaar Card
Utility Bill (electricity, water, or telephone bill)
Rental Agreement
Passport
Medical Certificate (Form 1A):
This form is required for applicants above 50 or those applying for a commercial licence.
Passport-sized Photographs:
Generally, a few copies of recent passport-sized photographs are required for identity verification.
Documents Required for a Permanent Driving Licence:
Learner’s Licence: The learner’s licence must be at least 30 days old.
Application Form (Form 4): This is the standard application form for a permanent driving licence.
Passport-sized Photographs: Recent photographs are usually required for verification.
DL Renewal
A private driver's licence is valid until the bearer turns 50 years old or for 20 years. Following this time, renewal is required.
How to Apply:
Visit the closest RTO office to apply in person.
An alternative is to apply conveniently online using the Parivahan Sewa site.
Required Documents:
Original driver's licence that has expired.
Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, or birth certificates are proof of age.
A rental agreement, utility bills, or an Aadhaar card are examples of proof of address.
Applicants over 50 or those renewing a commercial licence must have a medical certificate.
A recent passport-sized photo.
The usual charge for renewal is ₹200. For services like issuing a smart card, there can be extra charges.
Renewed Licence Validity:
For those under 50 years, a renewed licence is valid for 10 years.
For those over 50 years, validity is reduced to 5 years.
For commercial licences: Typically valid for 5 years regardless of age.
Processing Time: Once the application is submitted and approved, the renewed licence is generally issued within a few working days.
Duplicate DL in Delhi
If you have lost, damaged, or defaced your driving licence, you can apply for a duplicate driving licence in Delhi. The process involves submitting specific documents and completing the required application steps. Here's everything you need to know:
Documents Required for Duplicate DL
To apply for a duplicate driving licence, you need to provide the following:
Application Form 2: Complete the required application form, which may be found on the Parivahan Sewa website or at the RTO.
Original Licence: Provide it for verification if the original licence is partially damaged or disfigured.
Licence Photocopy: If attested copies of your driver's licence are available, bring them if the original is misplaced.
Prescribed Charges: According to the guidelines set forth by the Delhi Transport Department, pay the relevant costs, including user charges.
Proof: Provide proof of age and address, such as utility bills, PAN cards, or Aadhaar cards.
The local police station may require you to file an FIR or NCR (Non-Cognisable Report) if your licence is stolen or misplaced.
How to Apply for a Duplicate DL
Check out the RTO office.
To obtain your original licence, visit the Regional Transport Office (RTO).
Get Form 2 (the application) and complete it.
Go to the Parivahan Sewa website as an alternative.
Click "Driving Licence Services" and then "Apply for Duplicate DL."
Complete the essential fields and attach scanned copies of your supporting documentation.
Send in Your Documents:
Include evidence of age, proof of address, and, if appropriate, a FIR or NCR, together with all other required paperwork.
Send them in with the application form filled out.
Pay the Fees:
At the RTO office or online, pay the required fees. Make sure the payment is acknowledged via a receipt.
Verification and Processing:
The RTO will process your application after your documents have been verified.
Should the paperwork be in order, a duplicate DL will be provided.
Obtain an Extra Licence.
You can pick up the duplicate DL from the RTO or send it to you once authorised.
Ensure all your paperwork is correct and complete to prevent delays in getting your duplicate driver's licence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to Driving Licence in Delhi
Can I apply for a driving licence in Delhi if my permanent address is in another state?
Yes, you can apply for a driving licence in Delhi by providing proof of your valid local address, such as a rental agreement or utility bill, along with your identity documents.
Is a medical certificate mandatory for all applicants in Delhi?
No, a medical certificate is only mandatory for applicants over 50 years or those applying for a commercial driving licence.
Can I modify my application after submitting it online in Delhi?
Yes, you can make corrections before the application is processed by contacting the concerned RTO or using the correction option on the Parivahan Sewa portal.
How long does it take to receive a permanent driving licence in Delhi after passing the test?
The permanent driving licence is typically issued within 7–14 working days and sent to your registered address.
Can I use my Delhi learner’s licence in other states to practice driving?
Yes, a learner’s licence issued in Delhi is valid across India for practising driving within the learner's limitations.
What should I do if my driving licence is delayed in delivery in Delhi?
Check the status on the Sarathi Parivahan portal, and if there’s a delay, contact the issuing RTO with your application details.