Driving Licence in Ladakh: Online/Offline Application Process

Types of DL in Ladakh

Various Driving Licences (DL) are issued based on vehicle categories. Below is an overview:

Learner's Licence (LL)

Obtaining a learner’s licence is mandatory before applying for a permanent DL. It is issued for six months under specific conditions, and applicants must pass a learner’s test.

Permanent Driving Licence (DL)

A permanent DL allows drivers to operate non-commercial vehicles such as two-wheelers, cars, and light motor vehicles.

Commercial Driving Licence (CDL)

Commercial DLs are required for drivers of heavy or public transport vehicles like buses, taxis, and trucks. Due to the complexity of these vehicles, CDL applications involve more stringent requirements.

International Driving Permit (IDP)

The IDP allows Indian citizens to drive vehicles in foreign countries where the licence is recognised. It is ideal for travellers or expatriates seeking temporary driving permissions abroad.

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

The driving license in Ladakh is procured in two distinct steps: issuing a learner's license and then a permanent one. You can submit the form online or offline at your convenience.

How to Apply for a DL Online in Ladakh

The online application process provides ease and flexibility. Follow these steps:

• Step 1: Visit the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

• Step 2: Select "Ladakh" from the drop-down menu.

• Step 3: Fill out the learner’s licence application form with your details, such as name, address, date of birth, and blood group.

• Step 4: Upload scanned copies of required documents, such as proof of identity, age, address, and recent passport-sized photographs.
   
• Step 5: Schedule your learner’s test by selecting a date and pay the application fee online.
   
• Step 6: On the test date, visit the RTO to take the learner’s test, which will assess your knowledge of traffic rules and road safety.
   
• Step 7: Upon passing the test, your learner’s licence will be issued. It can be downloaded, emailed, or mailed to your registered address.
   
• Step 8: After holding your learner’s licence for at least 30 days, you can apply for a permanent DL by filling out Form 4 and paying the required fee.
   
• Step 9: Schedule your driving test date online.
   
• Step 10: On the test day, visit the RTO with your vehicle and demonstrate driving skills, road sign knowledge, and parking abilities.
   
• Step 11: Upon passing the driving test, your permanent DL will be issued within a few days. It can be collected at the RTO or sent to your registered address.

How to Apply for a DL Offline in Ladakh

For applicants who prefer in-person assistance, the offline process involves the following steps:

• Step 1: Visit the nearest RTO office and collect the necessary forms: Form 1A (Medical Certificate) and Form 2 (Application for Learner's Licence).
   
• Step 2: Fill out the forms accurately and attach the required documents, including proof of age and address.
   
• Step 3: Submit passport-sized photographs and pay the application fee.
   
• Step 4: Schedule your learner’s test by selecting a date to evaluate your knowledge of traffic rules and road signs.
   
• Step 5: Upon passing the learner’s test, your learner’s licence will be issued immediately or mailed to your registered address.
   
• Step 6: After holding the learner's licence for at least 30 days, complete Form 4 for a permanent DL and schedule your driving test.
   
• Step 7: Appear for the driving test at the RTO, where you will demonstrate your driving skills, knowledge of road safety, and ability to handle a vehicle. Upon passing, your permanent DL will be issued.

Driving Test Procedure in Ladakh

The applicant must be above 18 and hold a valid Learner's Licence for 30 to 180 days to acquire a permanent driving license in Ladakh. The applicant has to apply to the Regional Transport Office (RTO) with the necessary documents and fees. The procedure will consist of a structured test on driving skills and knowledge of traffic rules.

Two-Wheelers and Three-Wheelers Driving Test

• Figure-of-Eight Pattern: Demonstrate balance and precision by navigating a figure-of-eight track without placing your feet on the ground.
   
• Road Skills Assessment: Exhibit safe driving practices on public roads and follow traffic rules and regulations.

Test Day Requirements:

• Documents: Carry your original Learner's Licence, test application acknowledgement receipt, proof of fee payment, and vehicle insurance and registration papers.
   
• Vehicle Condition: Ensure the vehicle is in good working order and meets safety standards.

Post-Test Procedure:

• Results: The examiner will provide immediate feedback.
   
• Re-Test: If unsuccessful, you can reapply after a seven-day waiting period.
   
• Licence Issuance: Successful candidates will receive their driving licence by post.

Four-Wheelers Driving Test

• Vehicle Manoeuvres: Navigate specific patterns like ‘H’ or ‘T’ to demonstrate vehicle control and handling.
   
• Traffic Driving Assessment: Showcase safe driving practices in traffic conditions, adhering to road signs and rules.
   
• Parking Skills: Demonstrate proficiency in various parking techniques, such as parallel and reverse parking.

Test Day Requirements:

• Documents: Bring your original Learner's Licence, test application acknowledgement receipt, proof of fee payment, and vehicle insurance and registration papers.
   
• Vehicle Condition: Ensure the test vehicle is in excellent working order and meets safety criteria.

Post-Test Procedure:

• Results: Immediate feedback from the examiner.
   
• Re-Test: If unsuccessful, reapply after a seven-day waiting period.
   
• Licence Issuance: Successful candidates will receive their driving licence by post.

How to Check Driving Licence Application Status in Ladakh

To check the status of your DL application in Ladakh, follow these steps:

• Step 1- Visit the Sarathi Parivahan Portal: Go to the official Sarathi Parivahan website.

• Step 2- Select Ladakh: From the drop-down menu on the homepage, select "Ladakh" as your region.

• Step 3- Access Application Status: Click on the "Application Status" option in the menu.

• Step 4- Enter Details: Provide your application number and date of birth in the required fields.
   
• Step 5- Submit and View Status: Click “Submit” to view the status of your application.

DL Fees in Ladakh

The RTO standardises the fees for various driving licence services in Ladakh. Below is an outline:

Eligibility Criteria for Applying for a Driving Licence in Ladakh

To apply for a Driving Licence (DL) in Ladakh, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria based on the vehicle type, licence category, and additional requirements:

Meeting these criteria is essential to proceed with the DL application process in Ladakh, including applying for a Smart Card Driving Licence (DL) for enhanced durability and secure data management.

Documents Required for Driving Licence Application in Ladakh

The following documents are necessary to apply for a DL in Ladakh. Requirements vary slightly between a Learner’s Licence and a Permanent Driving Licence.

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):

Required for applicants above 50 or those applying for a commercial licence.

Passport-sized Photographs:

Recent copies for identity verification.

Documents Required for a Permanent Driving Licence:

• Learner’s Licence: Must be at least 30 days old.
   
• Application Form (Form 4): Standard application form for a permanent driving licence.
   
• Passport-sized Photographs: Recent copies for verification.

DL Renewal

Following the procedures and providing the necessary documentation is essential to renew your driving licence in Ladakh. Here are the key steps:

Licence Validity:

• A private driving licence is typically valid for 20 years or until the holder turns 50, whichever comes first.
   
• Renewal is required once this period expires.

Where to Apply:

• Visit the nearest RTO office in Ladakh for an in-person application.
   
• Alternatively, apply online through the Parivahan Sewa portal for added convenience.

Required Documents:

• Expired driving licence (original).
   
• Proof of Age: Aadhaar card, PAN card, or birth certificate.
   
• Proof of Address: Aadhaar card, utility bills, or rental agreement.
   
• Medical Certificate: Required for applicants over 50 or those renewing a commercial licence.
   
• Recent passport-sized photograph.

Renewal Fee:

•  The standard fee is ₹200. Additional charges may apply for services like issuing a smart card.

Renewed Licence Validity:

• For those under 50 years: The 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 typically issued within a few working days.

Duplicate DL in Ladakh

If you lose, damage, or deface your driving licence in Ladakh, you can apply for a duplicate licence by submitting the necessary documents and completing the application process.

Documents Required for Duplicate DL:

• Application Form 2: Complete and submit the prescribed form available at the RTO or online on the Parivahan Sewa portal.
   
• Original Licence: If the original licence is defaced or partially damaged, submit it for verification.
   
• Photocopy of Licence: If the original is lost, submit attested photocopies, if available.
   
• Prescribed Fees: Pay applicable fees per the local transport department guidelines, including user charges.
   
• Proof of Age and Address: Provide documents like an Aadhaar card, PAN card, or utility bills.
   
• FIR or NCR (Non-Cognizable Report): If the licence is lost or stolen, submit an FIR or NCR from the local police station.

How to Apply for a Duplicate DL in Ladakh

Visit the RTO Office:

• Go to the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Ladakh, where your original licence was issued.
   
• Collect the application form (Form 2) and fill it out.

Online Application:

• Visit the Parivahan Sewa portal.
   
• Navigate to the "Driving Licence Services" section and select "Apply for Duplicate DL."
   
• Fill in the required details and upload scanned copies of your documents.

Submit Documents:

• Attach all necessary documents, including proof of age, address, and FIR/NCR (if applicable).
   
• Submit them along with the completed application form.

Pay Fees:

• Pay the prescribed fees online or at the RTO office. Ensure you receive a receipt for the payment.

Verification and Processing:

• The RTO will verify your documents and process your application.
   
• If all documents are in order, the duplicate DL will be issued.

Receive Duplicate Licence:

• Once approved, you will receive the duplicate DL by post or can collect it from the RTO.
   
• Ensure your documents are accurate and complete so that you receive your duplicate driving licence promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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