Learning License

A learning license or learner’s license is important for anyone wanting to learn driving in India. This license acts as a provisional driving license, allowing individuals to practice driving on public roads under the supervision of a licensed driver.

A learner's license is valid for six months and can be issued to someone who is at least 16 years of age. After acquiring a learner's license, one can apply for a permanent license after 30 days.

Details Included in Learner’s License

A learning license will include the following information:

• Personal information such as the learner's name and age.
• Photograph of the individual.
• A rubber stamp with the signature of the authority in charge. 
• It will also include a label for ‘Learner's Licence’ under the ‘type of DL’ section.

Any individual who fulfills the following criteria can apply for a Learner’s License in India:

• The minimum age required to apply for a learning license is 16 years for light motor vehicles and 20 years for commercial vehicles.
• The applicant must be at least 18 years old if he wishes to apply for a learner’s license for non-geared motor vehicles.

You can apply for a learning license or permit online through the Parivahan website. Here are the steps that need to be followed: 

• Step 1: Go to the Parivahan Sewa website.
• Step 2: On the homepage, click the ‘Online Services’ option and select ‘Driving License Related services’.
• Step 3: Now, choose your state from the drop-down menu. You will be redirected to your state transport portal.
• Step 4: Search for the "Apply for Learner's Licence" option on the next page. Click on it to proceed with the application process.
• Step 5: You will be asked to fill out the Learner's Licence application form. Enter all the details accurately, such as personal information, contact details and address. Also, mention the type of Learning License you are applying for (for example, light motor vehicle, commercial motor vehicle, etc).
• Step 6: Scan and upload the necessary documents, such as ID proof, address and date of birth proof. 
• Step 7: After submitting the documents, you must book a slot for the Learner's Permit test. 
• Step 8: Pay the application fee for the learner’s license. This fee might vary depending on the state and the type of licence.
• Step 9: After successful payment, download learner license application receipt. This receipt can be used to track the status of the application.
• Step 10: Now, visit the Regional Transport Office (RTO) on the specified date to take the Learner’s Permit Test. After you pass the test, the RTO will issue you a learner’s license, which will be valid for six months.

One can also apply for a learning license offline by visiting the nearest Regional Transport Office. Below are the steps that must be followed:

• Gather the necessary documents and visit the nearest RTO.
• Fill out the Learner’s License Application form. You can also download learner license application form online through the Parivahan portal.
• Submit the filled application form along with the essential documents such as ID card, address proof, and passport-size photographs.
• Pay the learning license application fee.
• Book a slot for your learner’s license test. 
• Visit the RTO on the appointed date and slot to appear for the test. Make sure to bring the necessary documents along with you.
• The RTO will issue a learner’s permit/license if you pass the driving test successfully. This license will be valid for a period of six months.

Below is the list of documents that are required to apply for a learner’s permit:

• ID Proof: Aadhaar card, Passport, Voter ID, etc.
• Age Proof: Passport, birth certificate, school certificate, or PAN card.
• Address Proof: Utility bill, house agreement, Aadhaar card, or Passport.
• Passport Size Photographs.

The fee required to apply for a learner’s license is mentioned in the table below:

Note: The fees listed above can vary from one state to another. It is advisable to contact the respective state RTOs to get accurate information on the learner’s license application fee.

A learning license (LL) plays an important role, and some of the main benefits of it are as follows:

• A Learner's License allows you to gain practical experience under supervision, leading to safer driving habits. 
• Driving without a Learner's License is illegal and can lead to penalties. It ensures compliance with traffic laws and regulations, promoting responsible driving behaviour.
• A Learner's Permit is a mandatory step towards obtaining a permanent driving license. Having this license will allow you to practice driving on public roads under the guidance of a licensed driver.

In India, having a valid driving license is mandatory for motor insurance products. However, even a learner's license allows individuals to access essential coverage, protecting them from potential liabilities when driving.