A Permanent Driving Licence (DL) is a mandatory legal document that authorises an individual to drive a motor vehicle on public roads in India. Under the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, driving without a valid licence is a punishable offence.
If you are planning to apply for a permanent driving licence in 2026, the process is now largely digital, faster, and more streamlined. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has simplified the procedure through the official Sarathi Parivahan Portal, enabling applicants to complete most formalities online.
Here is a complete and updated guide to help you apply smoothly.
Step 1: Start with a Learner’s Licence
Before applying for a permanent driving licence, you must first obtain a learner’s licence.
- You must hold the learner’s licence for at least 30 days before applying.
- The learner’s licence remains valid for 6 months.
- The permanent licence application must be submitted within this validity period.
Without completing this step, you cannot proceed to the final driving test.
Eligibility Criteria for Permanent Driving Licence
To qualify for a permanent driving licence in India, you must meet the following conditions:
- Hold a valid learner’s licence for at least 30 days
- Be 18 years or above for private vehicle licences
- Be 20 years or above for commercial vehicle licences
- Have knowledge of traffic rules and road safety regulations
Failure to meet these criteria may result in rejection of your application.
Documents Required
Keep the following documents ready before applying online:
Proof of Age
- Birth Certificate
- Passport
- Aadhaar Card
- Educational Certificate
Proof of Address
- Voter ID
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport
- Ration Card
- LIC Policy Bond
Mandatory Forms
- Form 4 (for all applicants)
- Form 5 (only for commercial vehicle licence applicants)
Additional Requirements:
- Original Learner’s Licence
- Passport-size photographs
Uploading clear scanned copies ensures quicker verification.
How to Apply Online via Sarathi Portal
Follow these steps to apply digitally:
1. Visit the Official Portal
Go to the Sarathi Parivahan Portal and select your respective state. Under the “Driving Licence” section, click on “Apply for New Driving Licence.”
2. Enter Learner’s Licence Details
Provide your Learner’s Licence Number and Date of Birth. Verify the displayed details carefully.
3. Fill the Application Form
Complete the online form with accurate personal information and select the vehicle category you are applying for.
4. Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of the required documents. Ensure they are legible and in the correct format.
5. Pay Application Fee
Make the required fee payment online through the available payment gateway options.
6. Book Driving Test Appointment
Select a convenient date and time slot for your driving test at your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO).
If online slot booking is unavailable in your region, you may need to visit the RTO physically.
7. Appear for the Driving Test
On the scheduled date:
- Carry original documents
- Bring the payment receipt
- Take a vehicle that matches the licence category applied for
The examiner will evaluate your driving skills, vehicle control, road safety awareness, and adherence to traffic rules.
After Passing the Test
Once you successfully clear the test:
- Your application will be processed
- The permanent driving licence will be issued
- It may take a few weeks for the physical card to be delivered
You may also track the application status online through the portal.
Offline Application Option
Applicants who prefer offline processing can visit their nearest RTO. Submit the required documents, fill out Form 4, pay the fee, and schedule the driving test manually.
However, the online method remains faster and more convenient in most locations.
Important Points to Remember
- Driving without a valid licence is illegal.
- Ensure all details entered online match your official documents.
- Carry original documents during the driving test.
- Apply within the learner’s licence validity period.
By following the correct process, obtaining a permanent driving licence in 2026 is straightforward and hassle-free.
