Last updated: September 2026 – steps and fees checked against the current Sarathi Parivahan portal and Central Motor Vehicles Rules.
A learner’s licence (LL) is the first step to driving legally in India. It lets you practise on public roads under the supervision of a person who holds a permanent licence, and after 30 days you can apply for your permanent driving licence. You can apply for a learner’s licence online on the Sarathi Parivahan portal, and in many states you can even take the learner’s test online from home using Aadhaar.
Learner’s Licence Eligibility
Vehicle Classes You Can Apply For
On the application you choose one or more vehicle classes. The most common are:
| Class | Meaning |
|---|---|
| MCWOG | Motorcycle without gear (scooters, gearless bikes) |
| MCWG | Motorcycle with gear |
| LMV / LMV-NT | Light motor vehicle, non-transport (private cars, jeeps) |
| LMV-TR | Light motor vehicle, transport (taxis and light commercial vehicles) |
| HGMV / HPMV | Heavy goods or heavy passenger vehicles (trucks, buses) |
| E-rickshaw / E-cart | Battery-operated rickshaws and carts |
Exact class names can vary slightly by state. If you want to drive both a bike and a car, select both classes (for example MCWG and LMV) on the same application.
Documents Required
How To Apply for a Learner’s Licence Online
About the Learner’s Licence Test
The learner’s test is a short multiple-choice test on traffic rules, road signs and safe driving. The number of questions and pass mark vary by state, but you usually need to answer around 60% correctly. In the online version, you take the test on a computer or phone with your camera on, after an Aadhaar check and a short road-safety tutorial video. If you fail, you can retake it after paying the retest fee.
Prepare with our driving licence test questions and answers, the road sign symbols guide and our overview of traffic signs and rules.
Learner’s Licence Fees
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Learner’s licence (per class of vehicle) | Rs 150 |
| Learner’s licence test / retest | Rs 50 |
These are central fees under Rule 32 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules. Some states add a small service charge.
Rules While You Hold a Learner’s Licence
Next Step: Permanent Driving Licence
Your learner’s licence is valid for 6 months. After at least 30 days, you can apply for a permanent licence and book your driving test. Follow our step-by-step guide on how to apply for a driving licence online, or for bikes, see the two-wheeler licence guide. You can track your application any time on Sarathi; see Parivahan application status.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a learner’s licence valid?
6 months from the date of issue. If it expires before you get your permanent licence, you will need to apply for a new learner’s licence.
Can I take the learner’s test from home?
Yes, in most states, if you apply with Aadhaar authentication. You take the test online with your camera on. Without Aadhaar, the test is taken at the RTO.
Can I drive alone with a learner’s licence?
No. You must be supervised by a person holding a permanent licence for that type of vehicle, and display the “L” sign.
Is driving school necessary?
Not for private two-wheelers and cars, although it can help you pass the driving test. A driving school certificate is required for transport vehicle licences.
How do I download my learner’s licence?
On Sarathi, select your state and open the option to print or download the learner’s licence, then enter your application number and date of birth. It is also available in DigiLocker.