First Licence Playbook
Getting your first driving licence in India is now almost entirely digital — no queue, no agent. Here's the exact process via Sarathi Parivahan, with the Aadhaar shortcut that most people miss.
Check eligibility
- ✓Age 16+ for gearless 2-wheelers (mopeds, scooters ≤50cc)
- ✓Age 18+ for all other vehicles (motorcycles, cars, LMV)
- ✓No existing suspended or cancelled licence
Gather your documents
- ✓Aadhaar card (enables instant e-KYC — strongly recommended)
- ✓Passport-size photo (JPG, <100 KB)
- ✓Signature image (JPG, <100 KB)
- ✓Medical Certificate Form 1A — only if you are 40 years old or older
💡 Tip: Using Aadhaar for e-KYC lets you skip the RTO visit for document verification.
Apply on Sarathi Parivahan
- ✓Visit sarathi.parivahan.gov.in and select your state
- ✓Click "Apply for Learner Licence"
- ✓Choose "Applicant does not hold any Driving/Learner licence"
- ✓Select "Submit via Aadhaar Authentication" for the fastest path
- ✓Fill the form — demographic data auto-fills via Aadhaar
Select vehicle class and pay
- ✓MCWG — Motor Cycle With Gear (standard motorcycles)
- ✓MCWOG — Motor Cycle Without Gear (scooters, mopeds)
- ✓LMV — Light Motor Vehicle (cars, jeeps)
- ✓Fee: ₹150 application + ₹50 test fee (varies slightly by state)
💡 Tip: You can apply for multiple classes in one application — pay separately for each.
Take the online theory test
- ✓After Aadhaar authentication, you receive a password via SMS
- ✓15 multiple-choice questions — 60% passing score (9 correct)
- ✓Topics: traffic signs, basic rules of the road, driver duties
- ✓If you fail: re-apply after 24 hours (small re-test fee ≈ ₹50)
💡 Tip: The test is heavily focused on Mandatory vs Cautionary road signs. Review our Signs section before the test.
Download and use your LL
- ✓Download the Learner's Licence PDF immediately from the portal
- ✓Stick a red 'L' on the front and rear of your vehicle
- ✓You may only drive with a permanent-licence holder beside you
- ✓Apply for Permanent Licence: minimum 30 days after LL, before 6 months
💡 Tip: Your LL is valid for 6 months. Missing the window means you must restart from Step 3.
⚡ Common myths — busted
Start your application on the official portal
Legal information, not legal advice. Fees and procedures may vary by state. Always verify current fees on the official Sarathi portal before applying.