Driving License - Complete Guide

What is a Driving License?

A Driving License (DL) is an official document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) that authorizes a person to drive motor vehicles on public roads. It serves as proof of identity and driving eligibility.

Types of Driving License

• Learner's License (LL) - Temporary license valid for 6 months, required before permanent license
• Permanent License - Full driving license issued after passing test
• Commercial License - For driving commercial vehicles (trucks, buses, taxis)
• International Driving License - For driving in foreign countries

Age Requirements

• 2-wheeler (up to 50cc): 16 years
• 2-wheeler (above 50cc): 18 years
• 4-wheeler (car): 18 years
• Commercial vehicles: 20 years
• Transport vehicles: 20 years with 1 year driving experience

How to Apply for Driving License

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

For Learner's License:

• Proof of age (Birth certificate, SSLC certificate, or Aadhaar)
• Proof of address (Aadhaar, utility bill, ration card, bank statement)
• 2 passport size photos
• Application form (Form 2)
• Medical certificate (Form 1A) - for commercial license

For Permanent License:

• Learner's License (original)
• Proof of age and address
• 2 passport size photos
• Application form (Form 4)
• Medical certificate (if required)

Step 2: Apply Online

Option 1: Sarathi Portal

1. Visit Sarathi portal: https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
2. Click on "New User? Register Here" if you don't have an account
3. Create account with mobile number and email
4. Login to your account
5. Select "Apply Online" → "Learner's License" or "Permanent License"
6. Fill in all personal details
7. Enter address details
8. Select vehicle class (2-wheeler, 4-wheeler, etc.)
9. Upload scanned documents
10. Pay application fee online
11. Book appointment for test (for learner's license) or driving test (for permanent license)
12. Submit the application
13. Note down application number

Option 2: Tamil Nadu Transport Portal

1. Visit Tamil Nadu Transport Department portal
2. Register or login
3. Select "Driving License" service
4. Fill application form
5. Upload documents
6. Pay fees and book appointment

Step 3: Offline Application (Alternative)

1. Visit your nearest RTO office
2. Collect application form (Form 2 for LL, Form 4 for permanent)
3. Fill the form with all details
4. Attach required documents
5. Submit form and pay fees
6. Book appointment for test
7. Get acknowledgment receipt

Step 4: Take Test

For Learner's License:

1. Visit RTO on your appointment date
2. Take computer-based test (CBT) or written test
3. Test includes questions on traffic rules, road signs, and safety
4. Passing marks: 60% (12 out of 20 questions)
5. If passed, learner's license will be issued
6. Valid for 6 months

For Permanent License:

1. Visit RTO on your appointment date with your vehicle
2. Take driving test (practical test)
3. Test includes: Starting, stopping, turning, parking, reversing
4. For 2-wheeler: Figure-8 test, balance test
5. For 4-wheeler: Parking, reversing, turning
6. If passed, permanent license will be issued

Step 5: Receive License

1. After passing test, license will be processed
2. You'll receive SMS/email notification
3. License will be delivered via Speed Post to your registered address
4. Or collect from RTO office
5. Verify all details on the license

Renewal of Driving License

1. Visit Sarathi portal or RTO office
2. Select "Renewal of Driving License"
3. Enter your license number
4. Fill renewal application form
5. Submit medical certificate (Form 1A) - required for renewal
6. Pay renewal fee
7. Submit application
8. New license will be issued

Duplicate Driving License

1. Visit Sarathi portal or RTO office
2. Select "Duplicate Driving License"
3. Enter your license number or application number
4. Fill duplicate application form
5. Submit FIR (if lost) or affidavit
6. Pay duplicate fee (₹200)
7. Submit application
8. Duplicate license will be issued

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