Driving Licence in Kerala: Online/Offline Application Process

Types of DL in Kerala

In Kerala, the type of Driving Licence (DL) issued depends on the vehicle the applicant intends to drive. Here is an overview of the different licences available:

Learner's Licence (LL)

A Learner's Licence is the first step in obtaining a DL. It is a provisional licence issued to individuals learning to drive and is valid for six months. During this period, the holder can practice driving under certain conditions and prepare for the driving test to obtain a permanent licence.

Permanent Driving Licence (DL)

After holding a Learner's Licence for at least 30 days and passing the driving test, applicants can apply for a Permanent Driving Licence. This licence allows individuals to drive independently on public roads.

Commercial Driving Licence (CDL)

A Commercial Driving Licence is required for drivers operating commercial vehicles such as trucks, buses, and taxis. The eligibility criteria for this licence are more stringent due to the added responsibility of driving larger vehicles.

International Driving Permit (IDP)

The International Driving Permit allows Indian citizens to drive in foreign countries recognising the IDP. It is an essential document for travellers and expatriates who wish to drive abroad.

How to Apply for a Driving Licence (Online/Offline) in Kerala

In Kerala, obtaining a driver's license involves securing a learner's licence, followed by a permanent license after successfully passing the driving test. The process offers flexibility, as it can be completed online or offline, depending on your preference.

How to Apply for a DL Online in Kerala

Applying online lets you easily manage your application from the comfort of your home. Here’s how you can do it:

• Step 1: Go to the official portal of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

• Step 2: Select "Kerala" from the drop-down menu to proceed with the application on the website.

• Step 3: Now apply for a Learner’s Licence

• Step 4: Complete the learner’s licence application form, providing necessary personal details like your name, address, date of birth, and blood group.
   
• Step 5: Upload scanned copies of required documents, such as proof of age and address, and schedule the day for your learner's licence test.
   
• Step 6: Pay the application fee online, confirming your booking for the learner’s test.
   
• Step 7: Visit the selected RTO on your scheduled test date to take the learner’s test, which will assess your understanding of traffic rules, road signs, and safety regulations.
   
• Step 8: If you pass the test, your learner’s licence will be issued. You can either download it or receive it by email. It can also be mailed to your registered address if requested.
   
• Step 9: After holding the learner’s licence for at least 30 days, you can apply for a permanent licence by completing Form 4 and paying the required fee online.
   
• Step 10: Choose a convenient date for your driving test at the RTO.
   
• Step 11: On the scheduled day, visit the RTO with your vehicle for the driving test. You'll demonstrate basic driving skills, obey road signs, and perform parking exercises.
   
• Step 12: Upon passing the test, your permanent driving licence will be issued within a few days and can either be collected from the RTO or sent to your registered address.

How to Apply for a DL Offline in Kerala

For individuals who prefer in-person assistance, applying offline for a driving licence involves the following steps:

1. Visit the Nearest RTO Office: Head to your local Regional Transport Office (RTO) and collect the required forms, such as Form 1A (Medical Certificate) and Form 2 (Application for Learner's Licence).
    
2. Complete the Application: Fill out the forms with accurate details and attach the necessary documents, including proof of identity and address.
    
3. Submit Photos and Pay Fees: Provide passport-sized photographs for verification and pay the applicable application fees.
    
4. Schedule the Learner’s Test: After submitting the documents, book a date for the learner’s test. This test evaluates your knowledge of traffic rules, road signs, and safety guidelines.
    
5. Obtain Your Learner's Licence: If you pass the test, your learner’s licence will be issued on the spot or sent to your registered address.
    
6. Apply for a Permanent Licence: Hold your learner’s licence for at least 30 days, then submit Form 4 for a permanent driving licence. At this stage, you can also book your driving test.
    
7. Pass the Driving Test: Appear for the scheduled driving test at the RTO, where your driving skills will be assessed. Upon passing, your permanent driving licence will be issued.

Driving Test Procedure in Kerala

To get a permanent driving licence in Kerala, you must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid Learner's Licence, which should be between 30 and 180 days old. Applications can be submitted online through the Parivahan Sewa Portal or at the local Regional Transport Office (RTO). As part of the process, candidates must pass a driving test at the RTO, showcasing their practical skills and understanding of traffic regulations.

Two-Wheelers and Three-Wheelers Driving Test
 

• Figure-of-Eight Pattern: Show balance and precision by completing a figure-of-eight path without touching your feet to the ground.
   
• Road Skills Evaluation: Prove your ability to drive safely on public roads by demonstrating awareness of your surroundings and strict compliance with traffic rules.

On the Test Day:
 

• Required Documents: Bring your Learner's Licence (original), the acknowledgement slip for your test application, the fee payment receipt, and the insurance and registration documents for your vehicle.
   
• Vehicle Preparedness: Ensure the vehicle is in optimal condition, and meeting all safety requirements.

After the Test:
 

• Result Announcement: The examiner will provide instant feedback regarding your performance.
   
• Re-Test Option: If unsuccessful, you are eligible to retake the test after a seven-day interval.
   
• Licence Delivery: If you pass, your Driving Licence will be sent to your registered address.

Four-Wheelers Driving Test
 

• Vehicle Control Tasks: Execute manoeuvres like 'H' or 'T' patterns to showcase your vehicle handling skills and control.
   
• On-Road Driving Test: Navigate through real traffic, demonstrating adherence to road signs, traffic laws, and safety protocols.
   
• Parking Techniques: Show expertise in various parking methods, including reverse and parallel parking.

On the Test Day:
 

• Document Checklist: Carry your original Learner's Licence, test application receipt, proof of fee payment, and the vehicle’s insurance and registration papers.
   
• Vehicle Standards: The test vehicle must be in excellent working condition and fully comply with safety norms.

After the Test:
 

• Immediate Feedback: Your examiner will inform you of the test results on the spot.
   
• Re-Test Policy: If you do not pass, you may retake the test after seven days.
   
• Licence Dispatch: Upon clearing the test, your Driving Licence will be mailed to your address.

How to Check Driving Licence Application Status in Kerala

To check the status of your driving license application in Kerala, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Open the Sarathi Parivahan Portal: Navigate to the official Sarathi Parivahan website.

• Step 2: Choose Kerala as Your State: Find the dropdown menu titled "Select State Name" on the homepage, and pick "Kerala" from the list provided.

• Step 3: Navigate to Application Status: Once redirected to the Kerala-specific portal, look for and select the "Application Status" option in the menu at the top.

• Step 4: Provide Your Details: Enter your application number along with your date of birth when prompted. Make sure these details are readily available.
• Step 5: View Your Status: Hit the "Submit" button to proceed. The current status of your application will appear on your screen.

DL Fees in Kerala

The RTO standardises the fees for various driving licence services in Kerala. Here is an outline of the fees:

Eligibility Criteria for Applying for a Driving Licence in Kerala

In Kerala, obtaining a driving licence requires meeting particular eligibility criteria. These criteria differ based on the type of vehicle and the category of licence being applied for:

To apply for any driving licence, including the Smart Card Driving Licence (DL) you must meet the eligibility requirements. The Smart Card DL is a modernised version of the traditional licence, offering enhanced durability and secure data handling. Those who fail to meet the specified criteria will be disqualified from applying for a driving licence in Kerala.

Documents Required for Driving Licence Application

The following documents must be submitted when applying for a DL in Kerala. These documents vary between the learner's and permanent driving licence applications.

Documents Required for a Learner’s Licence:

1. Proof of Age (any one of the following):
   • Birth certificate
   • School leaving certificate
   • PAN card
   • Passport
      
2. Proof of Address (any one of the following):
   • Voter ID
   • Aadhaar card
   • Utility bills (such as electricity, water, or telephone bills)
   • Rental agreement
   • Passport

Medical Certificate (Form 1A): 

• Mandatory for applicants above 50 years or those seeking a commercial licence.

Passport-size Photographs:

• Recent photos are needed for identification purposes.

Documents Required for a Permanent Driving Licence:

1. Learner’s Licence:
   • The learner’s licence should have been issued at least 30 days prior.
      
2. Application Form (Form 4):
   • This is the official form required for obtaining a permanent licence.
      
3. Passport-Size Photographs:
   • A few recent photos will be required for verification.

DL Renewal

To renew your driving licence in Kerala, it’s important to adhere to the required steps and ensure all criteria are fulfilled. Below is an overview of what you need to know:

Validity of a Driving Licence: A private driving licence remains valid for 20 years or until the licence holder reaches the age of 50, whichever comes sooner. Renewal becomes necessary once this validity expires.

Application Options

• Submit your application directly at the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO).
   
• Alternatively, complete the process online via the Parivahan Sewa portal for greater ease.

Documents Required

To successfully apply for renewal, you will need the following:

• The original expired driving licence.
   
• Proof of age, such as an Aadhaar card, PAN card, or birth certificate.
   
• Proof of address -may include an Aadhaar card, utility bill, or rental agreement.
   
• A medical certificate is required for applicants aged over 50 or for those renewing a commercial driving licence.
   
• A recent passport-sized photograph.

Fees Details

The standard renewal fee is ₹200. Additional charges might apply, for instance, if a smart card is requested.

Validity After Renewal

• For individuals younger than 50, the renewed licence will be valid for 10 years.
   
• If the applicant is over 50, the validity is limited to 5 years.
   
• Commercial licences typically have a validity of 5 years, regardless of the applicant’s age.

Processing duration

Once your application is submitted and approved, the updated driving licence is usually issued within a few working days.

Duplicate DL in Kerala

Losing or damaging your driving licence can be stressful, but getting a duplicate in Kerala is straightforward. Below is a guide to help you navigate the process.

Documents Required for Duplicate DL

You’ll need the following to apply:

1. Application Form (Form 2): The application form is available at the RTO office or on the Parivahan Sewa website. Fill it.
    
2. Original Licence (if applicable): If your licence is damaged or defaced, submit it for review.
    
3. Attested Copy of the Licence: In cases where the original is missing, provide a certified photocopy if available.
    
4. Payment of Fees: Pay the required fees as per the guidelines of the Kerala Transport Department.
    
5. Proof of Identity and Address: Documents such as an Aadhaar card, PAN card, or utility bills can serve as proof.
    
6. FIR or Non-Cognisable Report (NCR): This document from the local police station is necessary for lost or stolen licences.

How to Apply for a Duplicate DL

To get a duplicate driving licence, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Regional Transport Office (RTO) where your licence was originally issued or access the Parivahan Sewa portal online.
    
2. Obtain and fill out Form 2, ensuring all details are accurate.
    
3. Attach the required documents, such as proof of identity, address, and an FIR or Non-Cognisable Report (NCR) if your licence is lost or stolen. If applying online, upload scanned copies of these documents.
    
4. Pay the prescribed fees either at the RTO or through the online portal. Keep the payment receipt as proof.
    
5. Once your application is submitted, the RTO will verify the details and documents.
    
6. Upon approval, the duplicate licence will be issued and sent to your registered address or made available for collection from the RTO.

To avoid delays, ensure that all your submissions are accurate and complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

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