Who Needs This Service?
Eligibility Criteria:
- You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Learner’s Licence for motorcycles with gears, cars, and commercial vehicles
- For motorcycles without gears (up to 50cc), minimum age is 16 years (requires guardian consent if under 18)
- You should have basic knowledge of traffic rules and road signs
- You must be medically fit to drive (Form 1A medical certificate required if you are 40 years or above, or applying for transport vehicles)
Required Documents
To apply for a Learner’s Licence online, you need the following documents in scanned format:
Mandatory Documents:
- Proof of Age: Birth certificate, PAN Card, Passport, Class 10th mark sheet, or School leaving certificate
- Proof of Address: Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Electricity bill, Gas bill, or Rent agreement with utility bill (not older than 3 months)
- Proof of Identity: Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or PAN Card
- Passport-sized Photographs: Recent color photograph (file size typically under 50KB in JPG/JPEG format)
- Digital Signature: Scanned signature on white paper (file size under 30KB)
- Form 1 (Self-Declaration): Declaration of physical fitness (downloaded from portal)
Additional Documents (if applicable):
- Form 1A (Medical Certificate): Required if you are 40 years or above, or applying for commercial/transport vehicle licence – must be signed by a registered medical practitioner
- Parental/Guardian Consent: If you are below 18 years of age (for 50cc motorcycles without gears)
Important Note: If you apply through Aadhaar authentication (recommended), you may not need to upload separate identity and address proof as these details are auto-fetched from Aadhaar. However, if your current address differs from your Aadhaar address, you must upload address proof separately.
Online Application Process: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Visit the Official Parivahan Sarthi Portal
Go to the official website: https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/
This is the national portal maintained by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India.
Step 2: Select Your State
On the homepage, you will see a dropdown menu listing all Indian states and Union Territories. Select your state to be redirected to your state’s RTO database.
Step 3: Click on “Apply for Learner Licence”
After selecting your state, navigate to “Learner Licence” menu and click on “Application for Learner Licence” or “Apply for Learner Licence”.
Step 4: Read Instructions and Continue
Read the instructions carefully and click on “Continue” or “Submit” button.
Step 5: Choose Application Category
Select the appropriate category:
- General: For regular Indian citizens
- Diplomat: For diplomatic personnel
- OCI (Overseas Citizen of India): For OCI cardholders
- Foreigners: For foreign nationals
- Refugee: For refugees
Most applicants will select “General”.
Step 6: Choose Aadhaar Authentication Method
You will see two options:
- Submit via Aadhaar Authentication (Recommended – Faceless service, no RTO visit required)
- Submit without Aadhaar Authentication (Requires RTO visit for document verification)
For Aadhaar Authentication Route:
- Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number
- Click “Generate OTP”
- Enter the 6-digit OTP received on your Aadhaar-linked mobile number
- Tick all checkboxes for consent
- Click “Authenticate”
Your basic details (name, date of birth, address) will be auto-filled from Aadhaar records.
Step 7: Fill the Application Form (Form 2)
Complete the application form with the following details:
- Personal information (Father’s/Guardian’s name, Mother’s name)
- Blood group
- Educational qualification (if applying for transport vehicle)
- Contact details (Mobile number and Email ID – mandatory for updates)
- Current residential address
- Permanent address (if different)
- Select Class of Vehicle (COV):
- MCWG: Motorcycle with gear
- MCWOG: Motorcycle without gear (up to 50cc)
- LMV: Light Motor Vehicle (cars, jeeps)
- Transport: For commercial vehicles
You can select multiple vehicle classes if needed.
Step 8: Upload Required Documents
Click on “Upload Documents” and upload scanned copies:
Document Upload Requirements:
- Address Proof: Select document type from dropdown, upload file (JPEG/PDF, max 1-2 MB)
- Age Proof: Select and upload
- Photograph: Passport-size color photo (JPEG, dimensions typically 3.5cm x 4.5cm, max 50KB)
- Signature: On white background (JPEG, max 30KB)
- Form 1 (Self-Declaration): Download, fill, sign, scan, and upload
- Form 1A (Medical Certificate): If applicable
After each upload, click “Confirm” to save.
Step 9: Preview and Verify Details
Review all entered information carefully. Check for:
- Spelling of name (as per documents)
- Date of birth format
- Address details
- Mobile number and email
Click “Next” or “Submit” after verification.
Step 10: Pay Application Fees Online
Fee Structure (as of 2026, may vary slightly by state):
- Learner’s Licence Application Fee: ₹150-₹200 (varies by state)
- Learner’s Licence Test Fee: ₹50
- Total: Approximately ₹200-₹250
Payment Methods Available:
- Credit/Debit Card
- Net Banking
- UPI (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, etc.)
- Other digital wallets
After successful payment, you will receive:
- Application Number (Note this down – required for tracking)
- Payment Receipt (Download and save PDF)
- Transaction ID
Step 11: Watch Road Safety Video (Mandatory)
After payment, you must watch a road safety and traffic rules video. This is mandatory before taking the test. Watch the complete video without skipping or toggling screens – the system tracks completion.
Step 12: Book Learner’s Licence Test Slot
Two options are available depending on your state:
Option A: Online Test (Available in Most States)
- After watching the video and application approval (usually instant with Aadhaar authentication), you can take the online test immediately
- The test consists of 20 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) on traffic rules, road signs, and safety
- You need to score 60% or above (12 out of 20 correct answers) to pass
- Test languages available: Hindi, English, and regional languages
- Test duration: 20-30 minutes
- Unlimited attempts allowed (retest fee of ₹50 applies for each attempt after first failure)
Option B: Appointment-Based Test at RTO
- Go to “Appointments” section
- Select “Learner Licence Test”
- Choose your preferred RTO location
- Select available date and time slot (slots typically released at 10:00 AM daily)
- Confirm booking
- Visit the RTO on scheduled date with:
- Printed application acknowledgement
- Payment receipt
- Original documents for verification
- Two passport-size photographs
Pro Tip: RTO slots fill up quickly. Log in 5-10 minutes before slot release time (usually 10:00 AM). Use desktop browser (Mozilla Firefox recommended) for better slot booking experience.
Step 13: Take the Learner’s Licence Test
For Online Test:
- Log in using your Application Number and Date of Birth
- Enter password received via SMS
- Complete the 20-question MCQ test
- Results displayed immediately
- If you pass, your Learner’s Licence will be generated automatically
For RTO Test:
- Reach RTO 30 minutes before scheduled time
- Submit documents for verification
- Take computer-based test at RTO
- Results announced immediately
Step 14: Download Your Learner’s Licence
After passing the test:
- Go to https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/
- Select your state
- Click “Print Learner Licence” under Learner Licence menu
- Enter Application Number or Learner Licence Number
- Enter Date of Birth and Captcha
- Download PDF copy of your Learner’s Licence (Form 3)
You can also access your LL through:
- DigiLocker app (link with Aadhaar)
- mParivahan app
Validity: Learner’s Licence is valid for 6 months from date of issue. You must apply for Permanent Driving Licence between 30 days to 180 days (6 months) after getting LL.
Offline Process (If Online Not Available)
If online facility is not available in your state or you prefer offline application:
Step 1: Visit Nearest RTO Office
Find your jurisdictional RTO based on your residential address.
Step 2: Collect Application Form
- Obtain Form 2 (Learner’s Licence Application Form) from RTO counter
- Or download from state transport department website and take printout
Step 3: Fill Form Manually
- Fill all details clearly in CAPITAL LETTERS
- Paste recent passport-size photographs at designated places
- Attach self-attested copies of all required documents
Step 4: Submit Form with Documents
Submit at designated counter along with:
- Filled Form 2
- Form 1 (Self-declaration)
- Form 1A (if applicable)
- Original documents for verification
- Self-attested photocopies of all documents
Step 5: Pay Fees at RTO Counter
Pay the prescribed fee in cash or via RTO payment counter. Collect receipt.
Step 6: Book Test Appointment
RTO staff will schedule your test date and time. Note it down carefully.
Step 7: Appear for Test
Visit RTO on scheduled date with:
- Original documents
- Payment receipt
- Application acknowledgement
Step 8: Collect Learner’s Licence
If you pass, the Learner’s Licence will be issued on the same day or mailed to your address within 7-10 days.
How to Check Application Status and Track
Method 1: Via Parivahan Portal
- Visit https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/
- Select your state
- Click “Application Status” from menu
- Enter your Application Number
- Enter Date of Birth
- Enter Captcha code
- Click “Submit” or “Check Status”
Status Types You May See:
- Submitted: Application received
- Under Process: Being verified by RTO
- Fee Pending: Payment not completed
- Documents Pending: Upload incomplete
- Approved: Ready for test
- LL Issued: Learner’s Licence successfully issued
- Rejected: Application rejected (reason will be mentioned)
Method 2: Via SMS
After application submission, you’ll receive SMS updates on your registered mobile number about:
- Application acceptance
- Payment confirmation
- Test slot booking
- Test result
- LL issuance
Method 3: Via Email
Check your registered email for updates and notifications from Parivahan system.
Method 4: Via mParivahan App
- Download mParivahan app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store
- Register/Login with your mobile number
- Go to “Driving Licence” section
- View application status
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem 1: Not Receiving OTP for Aadhaar Authentication
Causes:
- Aadhaar not linked to mobile number
- Network issues
- Mobile inbox full
- DND (Do Not Disturb) activated
Solutions:
- Verify your Aadhaar is linked to the mobile number you’re using
- Check SMS inbox and clear old messages if inbox is full
- Temporarily deactivate DND service
- Try after 5-10 minutes
- Switch to better network area
- If issue persists, choose “Submit without Aadhaar Authentication” option and complete process at RTO
- Contact Aadhaar helpline: 1947 to link mobile number
Problem 2: Aadhaar Details Mismatch with Documents
Causes:
- Name spelling different in Aadhaar vs. other documents
- Date of birth mismatch
- Address format different
Solutions:
- First update your Aadhaar details to match other documents through UIDAI portal or Aadhaar center
- Or use “Submit without Aadhaar Authentication” and submit documents manually at RTO
- Ensure all uploaded documents have consistent information
- If minor spelling variations exist, attach an affidavit
Problem 3: Document Upload Errors / File Size Too Large
Causes:
- File size exceeds limit (typically 50KB for photo, 1-2MB for documents)
- Wrong file format (system accepts JPEG, JPG, PDF)
- Poor image quality or blur
Solutions:
- Compress images using online tools (TinyPNG, Compressor.io)
- Convert to JPEG format if in other formats
- Ensure documents are clear, well-lit, and readable
- File dimensions for photo: approximately 3.5cm x 4.5cm, 200 DPI
- Signature should be on white paper with black ink
- Try using mobile scan apps (CamScanner, Adobe Scan) for better quality
- Retry upload during non-peak hours (early morning 6-9 AM)
Problem 4: Test Slot Not Available / Slot Booking Page Not Loading
Causes:
- High demand, slots fill up quickly
- RTO hasn’t released slots for upcoming dates
- Browser compatibility issues
- Peak hour server load
Solutions:
- Check daily at 10:00 AM when new slots are typically released
- Log in 5 minutes before slot release time
- Use desktop browser instead of mobile for booking
- Use Mozilla Firefox browser (better compatibility with government portals)
- Clear browser cache and cookies
- Try in incognito/private browsing mode
- Disable browser extensions
- Book for nearby RTOs if your preferred RTO has no slots
- Check during non-peak hours: 6-9 AM or 11 PM-2 AM
- If no slots for weeks, contact RTO helpline to inquire about next release
Problem 5: Payment Successful but Application Shows “Payment Pending”
Causes:
- Payment gateway delay
- Server synchronization issue
- Bank deducted money but confirmation not received by portal
Solutions:
- Wait for 2-3 hours for automatic update
- Check your bank account/credit card statement to confirm deduction
- Log out and log in again to refresh status
- Under “Fee Payments” menu, click “Check Payment Status” and enter transaction details
- If payment confirmed but status not updated after 24 hours:
- Take screenshot of payment receipt/bank statement
- Visit RTO with payment proof
- Or call Parivahan helpline with transaction ID and application number
- Do NOT make payment again unless confirmed that first payment failed
- Keep payment receipt PDF and transaction ID safe
Official Helpline Numbers and Contact
National Parivahan Helpline:
- Sarathi (Driving Licence): 0120-2459169 (Available 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, all days)
- Email: helpdesk-sarathi@gov.in
mParivahan App Support:
- Phone: 0120-2459171 (6:00 AM to 10:00 PM)
- Email: helpdesk-mparivahan@gov.in
Parivahan Sewa General:
- Phone: 0120-4925505
Important: For state-specific queries, contact your local RTO office. Each state has dedicated helpline numbers available on their transport department websites.
How to File a Complaint:
- Visit CPGRAMS (Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System): https://pgportal.gov.in/
- Register complaint under “Ministry of Road Transport and Highways”
- You’ll receive a reference number to track complaint status
- Resolution typically within 30-45 days
State Transport Department Websites (for state-specific information):
- Delhi: https://transport.delhi.gov.in/
- Maharashtra: https://transport.maharashtra.gov.in/
- Karnataka: https://parivahan.karnataka.gov.in/
- Tamil Nadu: https://tnreginet.gov.in/
- (Search “[Your State] Transport Department” for your state’s official portal)
Additional Important Information
Test Preparation Resources:
- Sample test questions available on Parivahan portal under “Tutorial for LL Test”
- Free mock tests available on state RTO websites
- Study traffic signs, road markings, and basic traffic rules from official Motor Vehicles Act guidelines
After Getting Learner’s Licence:
- Display “L” (Learner) sign on front and rear of vehicle while practicing
- Must be accompanied by a person holding valid Permanent Driving Licence for that vehicle category
- Cannot drive on national highways or during night time in some states
- Practice for at least 30 days before applying for Permanent Driving Licence
- Learner’s Licence cannot be renewed – if it expires, you must apply fresh
Next Steps – Permanent Driving Licence:
- Wait for minimum 30 days after receiving LL
- Apply within 6 months (180 days) of LL issuance
- Book driving skill test slot through same Parivahan portal
- Pass practical driving test at RTO
- Permanent DL will be issued after passing (valid for 20 years or till age 50, whichever is earlier)
Disclaimer: This information is compiled from official Parivahan Sewa portal and government sources as of February 2026. Fees, processes, and requirements may vary slightly by state. Always verify the latest information on the official Parivahan portal (https://parivahan.gov.in or https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in) or your state transport department website before applying. For the most current updates, refer to Ministry of Road Transport and Highways official notifications.
