Types of Driving Licences in India (2025) – Complete, Easy Guide

This page is your simple, complete, and up-to-date guide to types of driving licences in India. Learn about learner's license, permanent driving license, commercial license, private vehicle license, public service vehicle license, motorcycle license, heavy vehicle license, light motor vehicle license, non-transport license, transport license, automatic driving license in India, international driving license India, and more. All information is in easy English, so everyone can understand. We cover Parivahan Sewa, RTO rules, and the latest updates for 2025. All steps are explained in simple language for easy understanding.

Different types of driving licenses in India

Sample: Types of Driving Licences and Categories in India (2025)

What is a Driving Licence? Why is it Important?

A driving licence (sometimes called driver's license) is an official document given by the Indian government. It allows you to drive a car, bike, or any vehicle on public roads. It is also a valid ID proof, like a PAN card or passport. You must have a valid driving licence to drive legally in India. Without it, you can get a fine or even go to jail. It is also needed for insurance claims and police checks.

It proves you know the traffic rules and can drive safely.
It is required for insurance claims and police checks.
You can download driving licence PDF or use the mParivahan app for a digital copy.

Different Types of Driving Licences in India

There are many types of driving licences in India. Each type is for a different vehicle or purpose. Here are the main types, explained in simple English:

Learner's License (LL)

A learner's license is for people who are learning to drive. It is valid for 6 months. You must display an 'L' sign on your vehicle and always have a person with a valid licence with you. You cannot drive alone. This is the first step before getting a permanent licence.

Permanent Driving License (DL)

A permanent driving license is given after you pass the driving test at the RTO. It allows you to drive on your own. It is valid for 20 years or until you turn 50, whichever comes first. You must have a learner's license before applying for this.

Commercial License

A commercial license is for people who drive vehicles for business, like taxis, trucks, buses, or goods carriers. You must be at least 20 years old and have 1 year of experience with a light motor vehicle. This licence is needed for jobs like delivery driver, truck driver, or bus driver.

Private Vehicle License

A private vehicle license is for people who drive their own car, bike, or scooter for personal use. You cannot use this licence for business or to carry passengers for money. Most people in India have this type of licence for their family car or bike.

Public Service Vehicle License

This licence is for drivers of vehicles that carry passengers for money, like taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses. You need this if you want to work as a taxi or bus driver. It is a type of commercial licence with extra requirements for safety and passenger care.

Motorcycle License

A motorcycle license is for two-wheelers. There are two main types: with gear (MCWG) and without gear (MCWOG). With gear is for bikes like Pulsar or Splendor. Without gear is for scooters like Activa or Scooty. You must choose the right type when you apply.

Heavy Vehicle License (HMV)

A heavy vehicle license is for big vehicles like trucks, buses, and large vans. You need this licence if you want to drive a school bus, city bus, or goods truck. It requires a medical certificate and special training.

Light Motor Vehicle License (LMV)

An LMV licence is for small vehicles like cars, jeeps, and small vans. Most private car owners and taxi drivers have this licence. It is the most common type in India.

Non-Transport License

A non-transport licence is for private use only. You can drive your own car or bike, but you cannot use it for business, delivery, or carrying passengers for money. It is for personal and family use.

Transport License

A transport licence is for commercial use. You need this if you want to drive a taxi, auto, bus, or truck for business. It allows you to carry goods or passengers for money. It has stricter rules and medical checks.

Automatic Driving License

An automatic driving licence is for vehicles with automatic gearboxes. Some RTOs issue a separate licence for automatic cars. If you have this, you can only drive automatic vehicles, not manual ones. It is good for people who find manual gears difficult.

International Driving License

An international driving licence (IDP) lets you drive in foreign countries. You must already have a valid Indian driving licence. It is valid for 1 year and is needed if you plan to drive while travelling abroad for work, study, or holiday.

Each licence type has its own rules. Always apply for the correct one for your needs.

Driving Licence Categories & Vehicle Classes in India

Below is a table showing the main driving licence categories in India and which vehicles they cover. This helps you know which licence you need.

Category	Vehicle Type	Description
MC 50CC	Motorcycle 50cc	Up to 50cc engine
MCWG	Motorcycle With Gear	All motorcycles with gear
MCWOG	Motorcycle Without Gear	Scooters, mopeds
LMV	Light Motor Vehicle	Cars, jeeps, vans
LMV-NT	Light Motor Vehicle (Non-Transport)	Private four-wheelers
LMV-TR	Light Motor Vehicle (Transport)	Commercial light vehicles
HMV	Heavy Motor Vehicle	Trucks, buses
HPMV	Heavy Passenger Motor Vehicle	Large passenger vehicles
TRAILER	Trailer	Vehicles with trailers

For more details, check Parivahan Sewa or your local RTO.

Eligibility Criteria for Different Types of Driving Licences

Learner's License: Minimum age 16 years (gearless two-wheeler), 18 years (car, bike with gear).
Permanant Driving License: Must have a valid learner's license for at least 30 days. Minimum age 18 years (private), 20 years (commercial).
Commercial License: Minimum age 20 years, 1 year LMV experience, medical certificate needed.
International License: Must have a valid Indian DL, passport, and visa.

Always check the latest rules on Parivahan Sewa or at your RTO.

Documents Required for Driving Licence in India

Proof of age: Aadhaar card, birth certificate, 10th mark sheet, passport
Proof of address: Aadhaar, passport, utility bill, rental agreement
Passport size photos
Application form (online or Form 2/4)
Medical certificate (Form 1A, if required)
Learner's Licence (for permanent DL)
Fee payment receipt

Keep both originals and photocopies ready. Incomplete documents can delay your licence.

How to Apply for Driving Licence in India (Online & Offline)

Online Application (Parivahan Sewa)

Go to parivahan.gov.in or sarathi.parivahan.gov.in.
Select your state and click on "Apply Online".
Fill the online form, upload documents, and book a test slot.
Pay the fee online.
Appear for the driving test at your RTO.
After passing, download your driving licence PDF or get the smart card by post.

Offline Application (at RTO)

Visit your nearest RTO office.
Collect and fill the driving licence form (Form 2/4).
Submit documents and photos.
Book a test slot and pay the fee at the RTO.
Appear for the driving test.
Get your driver's license by post or collect from RTO.

You can also use the mParivahan app for updates and digital DL.

Automatic & International Driving Licences

Automatic Driving License in India: Some RTOs issue separate licences for automatic vehicles. Check with your RTO if you want to drive only automatic cars.
International Driving License India: Apply at your RTO with your valid Indian DL, passport, visa, and photos. Valid for 1 year, not renewable. Needed for driving in foreign countries.

Always carry your Indian DL and IDP when driving abroad. For long stays, you may need a local licence in that country.

RTO, Parivahan Sewa & Driving Schools

RTO (Regional Transport Office): The government office that issues and manages all driving licences.
Parivahan Sewa: The official government portal for all driving licence and vehicle services.
Driving School: You can join a driving school near you for training and help with the application process.

Always use official portals and registered driving schools for your licence process.

Common Mistakes & Tips for Driving Licence Application

Not checking application status regularly.
Uploading unclear or incorrect documents.
Missing your driving test appointment.
Not paying the correct fee or losing the payment receipt.
Not updating address after moving.
Not using the mParivahan app or Parivahan Sewa for updates and downloads.

Tip: Always use official portals and double-check your details before submitting.

Information & Help for Users

If you are confused, stuck, or new to driving licence types, don't worry! Here's how you can get help and make your process easy:

Step-by-step help: Follow the instructions on this page section by section. Each step is explained in simple English.
If you make a mistake: You can always ask at the RTO helpdesk or download a new form and fill it again.
Sample forms: See official sample forms here for reference.
Ask at the RTO: Visit your local RTO helpdesk for in-person guidance. They can check your documents and help you fill forms.
Use Parivahan Sewa support: For online help, visit parivahan.gov.in and use the FAQs or contact page.
Helpline numbers: Call the national transport helpline at 1800-11-1414 for assistance.
Not tech-savvy? Ask a friend, family member, or cyber café for help. Many RTOs and driving schools also offer assistance.

Remember: You are not alone! Many people find these forms and licence types confusing at first. Take your time, double-check your details, and use the help above if needed. Your driving licence is important—don't hesitate to ask for help!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Types of Driving Licences in India

1. How many types of driving licence are there in India?

There are several types of driving licences in India, including learner's license, permanent driving license, commercial license, private vehicle license, public service vehicle license, motorcycle license, heavy vehicle license, light motor vehicle license, non-transport license, transport license, automatic driving license, and international driving license.

2. What is a learner's license?

A learner's license is a temporary licence for learning to drive. It is valid for 6 months. You must get this before applying for a permanent licence.

3. What is a permanent driving license?

A permanent driving license is given after you pass the driving test. It is valid for 20 years or until you turn 50, whichever is earlier.

4. What is a commercial license?

A commercial license is for driving vehicles used for business, like taxis, trucks, and buses. You need to be at least 20 years old and have 1 year of LMV experience.

5. What is a private vehicle license?

A private vehicle license is for personal use vehicles like cars and bikes. It cannot be used for business or transport work.

6. What is a public service vehicle license?

This licence is for vehicles that carry passengers for money, like taxis, autos, and buses.

7. What is a motorcycle license?

A motorcycle license is for two-wheelers. It can be for gearless (MCWOG) or with gear (MCWG) bikes.

8. What is a heavy vehicle license?

A heavy vehicle license (HMV) is for driving big vehicles like trucks and buses.

9. What is a light motor vehicle license?

A light motor vehicle license (LMV) is for cars, jeeps, vans, and small taxis.

10. What is a non-transport license?

A non-transport license is for private use only. You cannot use it for business or commercial work.

11. What is a transport license?

A transport license is for commercial vehicles used for business, like taxis and trucks.

12. What is an automatic driving license in India?

Some RTOs issue separate licences for automatic vehicles. Check with your RTO for details.

13. What is an international driving license?

An international driving license lets you drive in foreign countries. It is valid for 1 year and must be applied for at your RTO.

14. How do I apply for a driving license?

You can apply online at Parivahan Sewa or offline at your RTO. Fill the form, upload documents, pay the fee, and pass the driving test.

15. What is the role of Parivahan Sewa?

Parivahan Sewa is the official government portal for all driving licence and vehicle services in India.

16. What is RTO driving licence?

RTO stands for Regional Transport Office. It is the government office that issues and manages all driving licences.

17. Can I use my Indian driving licence abroad?

You need an international driving license (IDP) to drive in most foreign countries. Apply at your RTO with your Indian DL, passport, and visa.

18. What is the difference between transport and non-transport licence?

Transport licence is for commercial/business use. Non-transport is for private use only.

19. How do I check my driving licence status?

Go to Parivahan Sewa, select 'Application Status', and enter your details to check your DL status.

20. What if I lose my driving licence?

Apply for a duplicate licence at your RTO. You may need to file an FIR if it is lost.

21. Can I have more than one type of driving licence?

Yes, you can hold licences for different vehicle categories, like LMV and HMV, but you must apply for each and meet the eligibility for each type.

22. What is the minimum age for a commercial driving licence?

You must be at least 20 years old and have 1 year of LMV experience to apply for a commercial driving licence in India.

23. What is the difference between MCWG and MCWOG?

MCWG means Motorcycle With Gear (manual bikes), while MCWOG means Motorcycle Without Gear (scooters, mopeds).

24. Can I renew my driving licence online?

Yes, you can renew your driving licence online through the Parivahan Sewa or Sarathi Parivahan portal.

25. What documents are needed for a driving licence?

You need proof of age, proof of address, passport size photos, application form, medical certificate (if required), learner's licence (for permanent DL), and fee receipt.

26. What is a smart card driving licence?

A smart card driving licence is a plastic card with a chip that stores your driving and personal details. It is more secure and durable than paper licences.

27. Can I change my address on my driving licence?

Yes, you can apply for an address change online or at the RTO. You will need to provide new address proof.

28. What is the penalty for driving without a valid licence?

Driving without a valid licence can result in a fine of up to ₹5,000 and/or imprisonment as per the Motor Vehicles Act.

29. Can I use my digital driving licence from mParivahan app?

Yes, the digital driving licence in the mParivahan app is legally valid across India and can be shown to traffic police.

30. What is the process for getting an international driving permit?

Apply at your RTO with your valid Indian driving licence, passport, visa, and photos. Pay the fee and collect your IDP after verification.

Conclusion: Know Your Driving Licence Type for a Smooth Process

Knowing the correct type of driving licence is the first step to drive legally and safely in India. Always use official portals like Parivahan Sewa, Sarathi Parivahan, or your state RTO website. Double-check your details, keep your receipts, and never use outdated forms. For any help, visit your RTO or use the helpline on the Parivahan portal. Stay safe and drive legally!

Types of Driving Licences in India

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