Getting a permanent driving license in India used to mean multiple trips to the RTO, long queues, and confusing paperwork. With the Parivahan Sarathi portal, most of it can now be done online. Here's the complete, updated guide for 2025.
Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
- You must hold a valid Learner License (LL) for at least 30 days before applying
- Your learner license must not have expired (valid for 6 months from date of issue)
- Age: 18+ for cars and bikes with gear, 16+ for scooters and mopeds (with parent/guardian consent if under 18)
- You must be medically fit (Form 1 self-declaration or Form 1A for transport vehicles)
Documents Required
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Learner License (original) | Must be valid |
| Aadhaar Card | Address + identity proof |
| Passport-size photographs | 2–3 recent photos |
| Form 9 | Application for permanent DL (available on Sarathi or RTO) |
| Form 1 | Medical self-declaration for non-transport vehicles |
| PAN Card or Passport | Additional age/identity proof |
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1 — Register on the Sarathi Portal
Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in and select your state. Create an account or log in with your mobile number. The portal stores your learner license details once you enter the LL number.
Step 2 — Fill Application Form (Form 9)
Select "Apply for DL" and fill in your personal details. The portal auto-fills most fields from your LL data. Review carefully — mistakes in name or date of birth cause rejections. Upload your photo and signature as per the specified dimensions (JPEG, under 20KB each).
Step 3 — Pay the Fee
Government fees for a permanent DL are standardised across most states:
| Vehicle Category | Government Fee |
|---|---|
| Two-wheeler (MC/WG or MC/WOG) | ₹200 – ₹400 |
| Light Motor Vehicle (LMV / Car) | ₹200 – ₹400 |
| Both two-wheeler + car | ₹400 – ₹700 |
Pay online via net banking, UPI, or debit card on the Sarathi portal itself.
Step 4 — Book Your Driving Test Slot
After payment, select your nearest RTO and choose an available date and time for the driving test. Slots fill up fast — book at least 7–10 days in advance. You'll receive a confirmation SMS with your appointment number.
Step 5 — Appear for the Driving Test
Reach the RTO at least 15 minutes before your slot. What to expect:
- Two-wheeler test: Figure-8 riding, balance on a slope, and a short road ride
- Car test: Forward and reverse parking, gear changes, and a short road circuit
- The test typically takes 10–15 minutes
- Bring your own vehicle or arrange one — some RTOs have test vehicles on request
Step 6 — DL Issued (Smart Card Delivered)
If you pass, the smart card DL is dispatched to your Aadhaar-registered address within 7–21 working days via Speed Post. You can download a temporary DL from the Sarathi portal immediately after passing — it's valid for driving until the physical card arrives.
What If You Fail the Driving Test?
Don't worry — you can retake the test. There's a waiting period of 7 days before you can rebook. A fresh fee is charged for the retest. Most states allow up to 3 attempts before requiring a fresh learner license application.
Common Reasons for Rejection
- Learner license expired before applying
- Less than 30 days since LL issue date
- Photo or signature file format/size mismatch on Sarathi
- Name mismatch between LL and Aadhaar
- Not carrying original documents on test day
Get It Done Without the Hassle
The Sarathi portal can be confusing — wrong form, wrong slot, document errors. goLex handles the entire DL application process for you: form filling, slot booking, document verification, and follow-up with the RTO. You just show up for the test.