Learning Licence Guide - Apply Through mParivahan
Complete guide to applying for a Learning Licence online through mParivahan and Sarathi Parivahan. Eligibility, documents, fees, and step-by-step instructions.
What is a Learning Licence?
A Learning Licence (LL) is a temporary permit issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) that allows an individual to practice driving on public roads under the supervision of a person holding a valid permanent driving licence. It is the first mandatory step towards obtaining a permanent driving licence in India. The learning licence is issued under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and is a prerequisite for applying for a permanent driving licence.
You cannot appear for the driving test or obtain a permanent DL without first holding a valid learning licence.
The learning licence is typically valid for six months from the date of issue. During this period, the holder must practice driving and apply for a permanent driving licence within 30 to 180 days of receiving the learning licence. While driving with a learning licence, the holder must be accompanied by a person holding a valid permanent driving licence at all times, and must display a prominent "L" sign on the front and back of the vehicle in red on a white background.
Failure to follow these rules can result in challans and penalties.
The process of obtaining a learning licence has been significantly simplified with the introduction of the mParivahan app and Sarathi Parivahan portal. Applicants can now complete the entire application process online, from filling the form to paying the fee and booking a test slot. The learning licence test covers traffic rules, road signs, and basic driving regulations, and can be prepared for using the study materials available on the Parivahan Sewa portal.
Eligibility for Learning Licence
Age Requirement
Minimum 16 years for motorcycles without gear (up to 50cc), 18 years for motorcycles with gear and light motor vehicles (cars). Parent/guardian consent required for applicants below 18 years.
Citizenship
The applicant must be a citizen of India with valid proof of identity and address. Foreign nationals residing in India can also apply with valid visa and residence proof.
Medical Fitness
The applicant must be medically fit to drive. A medical certificate (Form 1A) from a registered medical practitioner is required. Vision, hearing, and physical fitness are assessed.
No Disqualification
The applicant must not have been disqualified from holding a driving licence by any court or authority. Previous disqualifications must be disclosed in the application.
How to Apply for Learning Licence Online
The entire learning licence application process can be completed online through the Sarathi Parivahan portal. Follow the step-by-step process below to apply for your learning licence from the comfort of your home.
Visit Sarathi Parivahan
Go to parivahan.gov.in and navigate to Sarathi Parivahan. Select your state and nearest RTO from the dropdown menus.
Fill Application Form (Form 2)
Click "New Learning Licence" and complete the application form with personal details, vehicle category, and address. Verify all information before submission.
Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of proof of age (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport), proof of address, medical certificate (Form 1A), and passport-size photographs in JPEG or PDF format.
Pay Application Fee
Pay the learning licence fee online (approximately Rs. 200 per vehicle class) using net banking, UPI, debit card, or credit card.
Book Test Slot
Select a convenient date and time for the learning licence test at your chosen RTO. The test covers traffic rules and road signs.
Appear for the Test
Visit the RTO on the scheduled date with original documents. The test typically consists of multiple-choice questions. A score of 60% or above is required to pass.
Receive Learning Licence
Upon passing the test, your Learning Licence will be issued. Download it from the portal or access it through the mParivahan app. It will also be sent to your registered address.
Documents Required for Learning Licence
Having all required documents ready before starting the application will save you time and prevent delays. Below is a comprehensive table of documents needed for a learning licence application.
| Document Type | Accepted Documents |
|---|---|
| Proof of Age | Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Birth Certificate, School Transfer Certificate, Voter ID |
| Proof of Address | Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Utility Bill (not older than 3 months), Rental Agreement, Bank Passbook |
| Medical Certificate | Form 1A filled by a registered medical practitioner |
| Photographs | Recent passport-size photographs |
| Application Form | Form 2 filled and signed (available on Sarathi Parivahan) |
Learning Licence Test Preparation
The learning licence test is designed to assess your knowledge of traffic rules, road signs, and basic driving regulations. The test typically consists of 15-20 multiple-choice questions, and you need to score at least 60% to pass. The questions cover topics such as traffic signals, road markings, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking regulations, and road safety measures.
You can prepare for the test using the study materials and practice tests available on the Parivahan Sewa portal and the mParivahan app.
Many states now offer computer-based tests at the RTO, where questions are displayed on a screen and you select the correct answer. Some states still conduct oral tests where the inspector asks questions verbally. It is advisable to prepare thoroughly before appearing for the test, as failing means you need to rebook a slot and pay the test fee again.
The study material provided on the Sarathi Parivahan portal is comprehensive and covers all the topics that may appear in the test.
Important Rules for Learning Licence Holders
Supervision Required
You must always be accompanied by a person holding a valid permanent driving licence when driving. The supervisor must sit in the front passenger seat and be able to take control if needed.
Display L Sign
A prominent "L" sign must be displayed on both the front and back of the vehicle in red on a white background. This alerts other drivers that a learner is driving and they should maintain safe distance.
6-Month Validity
The learning licence is valid for 6 months. You must apply for a permanent DL within 30-180 days. After 180 days, you will need to apply for a new learning licence.
Vehicle Restrictions
You can only drive the vehicle category mentioned on your learning licence. For example, a two-wheeler LL does not allow you to drive a car. Apply for additional categories if needed.
Important: Driving alone with a learning licence is illegal and can result in challans and fines. Always ensure you follow all rules while holding a learning licence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Learning Licence
What is the fee for a learning licence?
Can I drive alone with a learning licence?
What happens if I fail the learning licence test?
Can I apply for learning licence for multiple vehicle categories?
Is the learning licence valid across India?
Can I apply for learning licence online only?
What if my learning licence expires before I get permanent DL?
Do I need a medical certificate for learning licence?
Apply for Your Learning Licence Online
Visit the official Sarathi Parivahan portal to start your learning licence application today.
Disclaimer: This is an independent informational website. We are NOT affiliated with the Government of India. For official services, visit parivahan.gov.in.