Applying for a Learner’s Licence (LL) online is now easier thanks to Parivahan’s “Sarathi” portal. This guide will walk you through eligibility, required documents, the step-by-step online process, fees, timelines, and FAQs.
Who is Eligible for a Learner’s Licence?
You must be at least 16 years old to ride a motorcycle without a gear.
For other vehicles (cars, motor vehicles), the minimum age is 18 years.
If you apply for transport vehicles, some states require 20 years of age and medical certificate.
You must have valid proof of identity, address, and date of birth documents.
Advertisements
Documents You Need
Document Type
Acceptable Proofs
Identity Proof
Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, PAN Card
Address Proof
Utility bills, Ration card, Aadhaar, Passport
Date of Birth Proof
Birth certificate, school records, Passport
Medical Certificate
Form 1 / Form 1A (for age > 50 or transport vehicle)
You will also need a few passport-size photos and a filled application form (Form 2 in many states).
Step-by-Step: Apply for Learner’s Licence Online
Visit the Sarathi Parivahan portal (sarathi.parivahan.gov.in) or the state transport site.
Under “Driving Licence / Learner Licence Services”, choose “Apply for New Learner Licence”.
Enter your state and RTO jurisdiction.
Fill the online application form with personal, address, and vehicle class details.
Upload scanned documents or Aadhaar (if e-KYC is enabled).
Pay the required fees online (through UPI, card, netbanking).
Book a time slot for your Learner’s Licence test.
On the test day, appear at the RTO or allotted centre, take the test, and submit originals for verification.
If you pass, your learner’s licence is issued, sometimes printed immediately or sent by post.
Fee Structure & Validity
The exact fee and validity depend on your state/class of vehicle. But generally:
The learner’s licence is valid for 6 months.
There is a nominal test fee + licence issuance fee.
For transport vehicles or applicants over 50, additional medical fees may apply.
Check the “LL Services / Fee” page in your state’s Parivahan portal for the exact amount.
Advertisements
Timeline & What to Expect
After submitting the application and passing the test, you may receive your LL on the same day or within a few days.
The LL is valid for 6 months, during which you can practice driving (under supervision).
After at least 30 days, you can apply for a permanent driving licence, as long as you fulfil the criteria.
Some states are now allowing “faceless” LL test from home or remotely (Gujarat recently started).
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. Can I drive alone with a Learner’s Licence? No. You must always have an experienced licensed driver sitting beside you.
Q2. Is a learner’s licence valid across all states? Yes, a valid Indian learner’s licence is recognised nationwide.
Q3. What if I fail the test? You can retake the test after paying the retest fee and scheduling a fresh slot.
Q4. Can I apply online if I live in a different state? You should apply under the RTO in whose jurisdiction your address falls.
Q5. What is the difference between the “faceless LL test” and the normal test? Faceless test allows you to take the learner’s licence test from home (if e-KYC / face authentication permitted in your state). Gujarat has started this system.
Q6. What happens after a Learner’s Licence expires? If you fail to convert it to a permanent licence within 6 months, you may need to reapply for a new LL.
Advertisements
The Bottom Line
Applying for a learner’s / driving licence online now saves time and effort. Follow the Sarathi portal steps, keep your documents ready, pass the test, and practice driving safely. Make sure to check your state’s specific rules and fees.
If you want, I can also draft a step-by-step checklist PDF so you don’t miss any steps when you go to apply. Cool?
