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Driving Licence in Punjab: Online/Offline Application Process

Published on 17 Dec, 2024, 9:29 AM IST
Updated on 17 Dec, 2024, 10:05 AM IST
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As the law requires in every Indian state, a valid driver's license is also necessary to drive in Punjab. Punjab's Regional Transport Office (RTO) regulates the licensing procedure to ensure drivers adhere to traffic safety regulations. Knowing every step of the procedure can help, whether you're a new driver, relocating to Punjab, or trying to renew or enhance your license. You can apply for a driving license (DL) in Punjab with the aid of this article.

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Types of DL in Punjab

In Punjab, different Driving Licences (DL) are issued based on the type of vehicle the applicant intends to drive. Here is an overview of the types of driving licences available:

Learner's Licence (LL)

The initial stage in the DL procedure is obtaining a learner's license. This six-month provisional license is given to people who are learning to drive. The holder might get ready for the driving exam needed for a permanent license during this time by practising driving under specific restrictions.

Permanent Driving Licence (DL)

Candidates can obtain a permanent driver's license (DL), which enables them to drive on public roads independently after passing the driving test and successfully maintaining a learner's license for at least 30 days.

Permanent Driving Licence (DL)

Drivers of trucks, buses, and taxis must have a commercial driver's license. The CDL qualifying requirements are more demanding because of the responsibility of operating heavier vehicles.

International Driving Permit (IDP)

Indian nationals can drive in nations that recognise the IDP if they have an International Driving Permit. Travellers and expatriates will find this booklet to be very helpful.

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

In Punjab, a learner's license must be obtained before a permanent license can be obtained after completing a driving test. Flexibility and convenience are offered, as well as the option to finish the entire process offline or online.

How to Apply for a DL Online in Punjab

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.
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  • Step 2: Once on the website, select "Punjab" from the drop-down menu to proceed with the application.
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  • Step 3: Applying for a Learner’s Licence
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  • 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: Completing Form 4 and making the necessary online payment allows you to apply for a permanent license after having your learner's license for at least 30 days.
     
  • Step 10: Select a day to take the RTO driving test.
     
  • Step 11: Bring your car to the RTO on the appointed day to take the driving test. This test has several components, including parking, following traffic signs, and exhibiting fundamental driving skills.
     
  • Step 12: Should you succeed, your permanent driver's license will be issued in a few days and can be picked up at the RTO or sent to the address you entered.

How to Apply for a DL Offline in Punjab

The offline application procedure entails going to the RTO for individuals wanting to do it offline.

  • 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: Provide accurate information on the application forms and include all necessary supporting documentation, such as identification and proof of address.
     
  • Step 3: Finish paying the application fee and send in passport-sized photos for validation.
     
  • Step 4: Set up the learner's test date after submitting the paperwork. Road signs, traffic laws, and safety requirements are the main topics of the test.
     
  • Step 5: If you pass the test, your learner's license will be forwarded to your registered address or issued instantly.
     
  • Step 6: Submit Form 4 for the permanent license to the RTO after retaining the learner's license for at least 30 days. At this point, you can also set a date for the driving test.
     
  • Step 7: Show up to the RTO to take the driving test, where you must prove your abilities. The RTO will give you a permanent DL if you pass.

Driving Test Procedure in Punjab

To obtain a permanent driving licence in Punjab, you must be 18+ and hold a valid Learner's Licence (30-180 days). Use the Parivahan Sewa Portal or your local RTO to submit your application with the necessary paperwork and fees. Applicants must undergo a structured driving test at the Regional Transport Office (RTO) to demonstrate their driving skills and knowledge of traffic rules.

Two-Wheelers and Three-Wheelers Driving Test
 

  • Figure-of-Eight Pattern: Show agility and balance by navigating a figure-of-eight pattern without putting your feet on the ground.
     
  • Assessment of Road Skills: On public roads, drive safely by paying attention to your surroundings and following the traffic laws.

Criteria for the Test Day:

  • Original licence: Keep your original learner's licence, the acknowledgement receipt for your test application, the proof that you paid the fee, and the vehicle's insurance and registration documents with you.
     
  • Safety: Verify that the car is safe and in satisfactory operating order.

Following the test:

  • Findings: The examiner will provide you with immediate performance feedback.
     
  • Retest: After seven days, you can reapply for the test if you didn't pass.
     
  • Licence Issuance: Admitted drivers will get their licenses in the mail. 

Four-Wheelers Driving Test

  • Vehicle Manoeuvres: To show mastery, precision, and control of vehicle handling, execute specific patterns, like the 'H' or 'T.'
     
  • Traffic Driving Assessment: Demonstrate compliance with traffic signs, traffic laws, and general road safety by driving in real-world traffic situations.
     
  • Parking Skills: Show off your mastery of various parking strategies, such as parallel and reverse parking.

Test-Day Prerequisites:

  • Bring your original learner's license, test application acknowledgement receipt, evidence of fee payment, and documents proving your vehicle's registration and insurance.
     
  • The test vehicle must be in top operating condition and fulfil all safety requirements.

Procedure for Post-Test:

  • Findings: Get the examiner's response right away.
     
  • Re-Test: You have seven days to wait before reapplying if the test is not cleared.
     
  • Licence Issuance: A successful test ensures your Driving Licence will be sent to you via post.

How to Check Driving Licence Application Status in Punjab

To check the status of your driving licence application in Punjab, follow these steps:

  • Step 1- Visit the Sarathi Parivahan Portal: Go to the official Sarathi Parivahan website.
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  • Step 2- Select Punjab: On the homepage, you'll find a dropdown menu labelled "Select State Name." Choose "Punjab" from the list.
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  • Step 3- Access Application Status: You'll be redirected to the state's specific portal after selecting Punjab. Click on the "Application Status" option in the top menu bar.
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  • Step 4: Enter Necessary Information. You will be asked to provide your date of birth and application number. Make sure you have these details on hand.
     
  • Step 5: Submit and View Status: Click the "Submit" button once the required data has been entered. The screen will show the status of your application.

DL Fees in Punjab

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

Purpose

Applicable for

Amount

Issue of Learner’s Licence (Form 3) for each class of vehicleTwo-wheeler/Four-wheeler₹150
Learner’s Licence Test Fee or Repeat Test FeeTwo-wheeler/Four-wheeler₹50
Driving Test Fee (for each class of vehicle)Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler₹300
Issuance of Driving LicenceTwo-wheeler/Four-wheeler₹200
Issuance of International Driving PermitTwo-wheeler/Four-wheeler₹1000
Addition of another class of vehicle to the Driving LicenceTwo-wheeler/Four-wheeler₹500
Endorsement or renewal of authorisation for vehicles carrying hazardous goodsFour-wheeler (commercial)₹1000
Renewal of Driving LicenceTwo-wheeler/Four-wheeler₹200
Renewal of Driving Licence after grace periodTwo-wheeler/Four-wheeler₹300 + ₹1000 per year of delay
Issue or renewal of licence to a school/establishment for driving instructionNot vehicle-specific₹10000
Issue of duplicate licence to a school/establishment for driving instructionNot vehicle-specific₹5000
Appeal against orders of licensing authorityNot vehicle-specific₹500
Change of address or other particulars in Driving LicenceTwo-wheeler/Four-wheeler₹200

Eligibility Criteria for Applying for a Driving Licence in Punjab

To apply for a DL in Punjab, 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)

  • Minimum 16 years old.
  • Consent from a guardian or parent if under 18.
  • Must be aware of traffic rules and regulations.
  • 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.
  • 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 not meeting these criteria are not eligible to apply for a driving licence in Punjab. 

Documents Required for Driving Licence Application

When applying for a DL in Punjab, the following paperwork needs to be included. This paperwork differs slightly between applications for permanent and learner's licenses.

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

To renew your driving licence in Punjab, following the proper procedures and meeting the requirements is essential. Here are the key points to keep in mind:

  • Licence Validity: A private driver's license is valid until the holder turns 50 years old or for 20 years. After this time, renewal is required.

Where to Apply:

  • To apply in person, go to the RTO office closest to you.
     
  • For convenience, you can also apply online using the Parivahan Sewa portal.

Documents Needed:

  • The original driver's license has expired.
     
  • A birth certificate, PAN card, or Aadhaar card proves your age.
     
  • Aadhaar cards, utility bills, or a rental agreement are examples of proof of address.
     
  • A medical certificate is required for applicants over 50 or those renewing a business license.
     
  • a recent passport-sized photo.
     
  • Renewal Fee: ₹200 is the usual fee. Services like smart card issuance may incur additional costs.

Renewed Licence Validity:

  • For those under 50 years: 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 Punjab 

You can apply for a duplicate driving license in Punjab if your original one has been lost, destroyed, or vandalised. The procedure entails filling out the necessary application stages and submitting particular papers. Here is all the information you require:

Documents Required for Duplicate DL

To apply for a duplicate driving licence, you need to provide the following:

  • Application Form 2: Complete and send in the required application, which can be found online or at the RTO.
     
  • Original Licence: Send the original license for validation if it is partially damaged or disfigured.
     
  • Licence Photocopy: If attested copies of your driver's license are available, please give them if the original is lost.
     
  • Fees: Suggested Fees As directed by the Punjab Transport Department, pay the relevant fees, including user fees.
     
  • Documents: Provide supporting documentation such as utility bills, PAN cards, or Aadhaar cards as proof of age and address.
     
  • FIR or Non-Cognizable Report: You might have to file an FIR or NCR with the local police station if your license is stolen or misplaced.

How to Apply for a Duplicate DL

  • Go to the RTO office.
     
  • Visit your original license's issuing Regional Transport Office (RTO).
     
  • Get the application (Form 2) and complete it.
     
  • Online Application: Go to the Parivahan Sewa website instead.
     
  • Go to "Driving Licence Services" and choose "Apply for Duplicate DL."
     
  • Enter the necessary information and attach scanned copies of your supporting documentation.

Send in Documents:

  • Include all required paperwork, such as proof of address, age, and, if relevant, a FIR or NCR.
     
  • Send these in with the filled-out application.

Pay the fees:

  • You can pay the required fees at the RTO office or online. Make sure you obtain a payment receipt.

Verification and Processing:

  • The RTO will process your application after your documents are verified.
     
  • The duplicate DL will be provided if all the paperwork is in order.
     
  • Obtain a duplicate license.
     
  • Once authorised, you can pick up the duplicate DL from the RTO or send it to you.

To prevent delays in getting your duplicate driver's license, ensure all your documentation is correct and complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to Driving Licence in Punjab

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Can I apply for a driving licence in Punjab if I have an out-of-state Learner’s Licence (LL)?

You can apply for a driving licence in Punjab with an out-of-state LL, but you must submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the original issuing RTO.

Are biometric verifications mandatory for DL applications in Punjab?

Yes, biometric verification, including fingerprint and photograph capture, is required during the application process to ensure authenticity.

Is a minimum educational qualification required to apply for a Commercial Driving Licence (CDL) in Punjab?

Yes, applicants for a CDL must have cleared at least the 8th standard as per state regulations.

Can I apply for a driving licence in Punjab without owning a vehicle?

You can borrow a vehicle for the driving test, but it must meet the RTO’s safety and registration standards.

What is the grace period for renewing an expired DL in Punjab?

You can renew your DL within a grace period of 30 days after expiry without incurring a penalty; beyond that, additional fees apply.

Does Punjab issue smart card driving licences, and are they mandatory?

Yes, Punjab issues smart card DLs, which are not mandatory but highly recommended for enhanced durability and data storage.

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