If you reside in Delhi and wish to drive a vehicle, the Delhi Transport Department requires you to have a driving license (DL) to legally drive on public roads. The department is also responsible for issuing both learner’s and permanent driver’s licenses of all types. Driving a vehicle without a license not only makes it illegal for you to drive but can also attract penalties.
This is why, for residents of Delhi, holding a Delhi driving license is an absolute must. In this article, we will explore the driving license application process in Delhi, driving license age, the types of licenses, and the documents you need.
Types of Driving Licenses Available
The Delhi Transport Department issues different driving licenses for different vehicles. The different types of driving licenses available in Delhi are as follows:
| Type of License | Description |
| Learner’s License | It is a temporary license that is valid for up to 6 months only.It is issued to learn driving of Motor Vehicles. |
| Permanent Driving License | You have up to six months from the date of the learner license’s issuance to become eligible for a permanent license. Class of vehicles:Motor Cycle without gearMotor Cycle with gear Invalid Carriage Light Motor Vehicle (NT)Transport Vehicles Road RollerMotor Vehicles of a specified description |
International Driving Permits (IDP)
If you are a Delhi resident who wants to drive abroad, you must apply for an international driving permit (IDP). This allows an IDP holder from Delhi to drive legally in various other countries. Different zonal offices in Delhi are responsible for issuing international driving permits that are valid for one year.
Eligibility Criteria for Obtaining a Driving License
To get a driving license in Delhi, you must meet the following requirements:
- Eligible driving license age for a learner’s license is minimum 18 years old.
- To pass the test, you need to understand the fundamentals of traffic laws.
- You must have a valid learner’s license.
- After obtaining a valid learner’s license for thirty days, but no later than 180 days from the date of issuance, you must apply for a permanent license.
- You must be healthy, especially for commercial licenses.
Documents Required for Application
Driving license application process in Delhi necessitates you to submit a set of of the following documents:
| Document Type | Example Documents |
| Proof of Identity | Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport |
| Proof of Address | Utility Bill, Passport, Voter ID |
| Proof of Age | Birth Certificate, 10th Class Certificate |
| Passport-Size Photographs | 2-3 recent photographs |
Additional documents:
- Form 4: Driving license
- Form 5: Commercial driving license
- Form 1A: Medical certificate, which has to be filled by a physician (necessary for applicants older than the age of 40 and commercial drivers)
- Form 1: Physical fitness declaration by the applicant
Documents for International Driving Permits (IDP)
An International Driving Permit (IDP) application must be submitted in Form-4A and must be supported by:
- Application for issue of I.D.P., Form- 4A
- Copy of valid driving license
- Valid medical certificate in Form – 1A
- Valid proof of passport
- Valid proof of visa, wherever applicable
- Four copies of recent passport-size photograph
- Prescribed fee
How to Apply for a Driving License in Delhi?
Getting a driving license in Delhi is easy. You can apply online or in person, whichever you prefer.
Online Application Process
- Visit the Official Transport Website: Go to https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/sarathiservice/ website.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the online form for a learner or permanent license. Make sure you fill in all the necessary details accurately.
- Upload Documents: Upload required documents such as proof of identity, address, and age. Ensure that the scanned copies are clear and readable.
- Pay the Fees: Pay the application fee online using net banking, debit card, or credit card.
- Book an Appointment: Schedule an appointment for your driving test at the Regional Transport Office (RTO). You will be given the option to choose a convenient date and time for your test.
Offline Application Process
- Visit the Regional Transport Office (RTO): Collect the application form from the RTO office. You can also download and print the form beforehand from the official website.
- Fill Out the Form 2: Complete the required details carefully. Ensure that there are no errors in your personal information.
- Submit Documents: Provide photocopies of the necessary documents. Carry original documents as well for verification purposes.
- Pay Fees: Pay the applicable fees at the RTO counter in cash or using a card, depending on the facilities available.
- Schedule a Test: Book an appointment for the driving test. The RTO will provide you with an appointment date based on availability.
List of RTO in Delhi
| Zone | RTO Code | Area |
| North Delhi – Mall Road | DL-01 | Mall Road, North Delhi, Delhi – 110007 |
| New Delhi – Tilak Marg | DL-02 | Tilak Marg, New Delhi – 110001 |
| South Delhi – Sheikh Sarai | DL-03 | DDA Market, Sheikh Sarai, South Delhi, Delhi – 110017 |
| West Delhi – Janakpuri | DL-04 | Janakpuri, West Delhi, Delhi – 110058 |
| East Delhi – Loni Road | DL-05 | Loni Road, Shahdara, East Delhi, Delhi – 110032 |
| Central Delhi – Sarai Kale Khan | DL-06 | Sarai Kale Khan, Delhi |
| East Delhi – Mayur Vihar | DL-07 | Mayur Vihar, East Delhi, Delhi – 110091 |
| North West Delhi – Wazir Pur | DL-08 | Wazirpur, North West Delhi, Delhi – 110052 |
| South West Delhi – Janakpuri / Palam | DL-09 | Palam, Janakpuri, Delhi – 110058 |
| West Delhi – Raja Garden | DL-10 | Raja Garden, Delhi – 110027 |
| North West Delhi – Rohini | DL-11 | Rohini, North West Delhi, Delhi – 110085 |
| South West Delhi – Vasant Vihar | DL-12 | Vasant Vihar, South West Delhi, Delhi – 110057 |
| East Delhi – Surajmal Vihar / Shahdara | DL-13 | Surajmal Vihar, East Delhi, Delhi – 110092 |
| Sonipat due to the NCR | DL-14 | Sonipat, Haryana – 131001 |
| Gurgaon due to the NCR | DL-15 | Gurgaon, Haryana – 122001 |
| Faridabad due to the NCR | DL-16 | Faridabad, Haryana – 121001 |
| Noida due to the NCR | DL-17 | Noida, Uttar Pradesh – 201301 |
| Ghaziabad due to the NCR | DL-18 | Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh – 201002 |
Understanding the Learner’s License
A learner’s license is a temporary license for those who wish to start learning how to drive. It’s valid for 6 months and allows you to practice driving under the supervision of a permanent DL holder. You need to pass a basic theory test on traffic signs and road rules to obtain it.
Learner’s License Test
The learner’s license test is generally conducted online at the RTO office and checks your knowledge of traffic rules and road signs. It’s wise to study the driver’s handbook from the Delhi Transport Department to prepare, as you will need to answer multiple-choice questions in the test.
Validity and Usage
The learner’s license is valid for six months. During this time, you can practice driving on public roads with a permanent license holder. You must display an ‘L’ sign on your vehicle.
Preparing for the Driving Test
The driving test is key to getting a permanent license. Here are some tips you can follow:
- Practice Regularly: Practice with a licensed driver to learn driving. Rehearse on busy roads to get better at driving.
- Understand Road Signs: Learn all road signs, signals, and traffic rules. Knowing road signs is crucial for the driving test. You must recognize and respond to them correctly.
- Simulated Test Practice: Practice the test conditions to reduce anxiety and boost confidence. Drive in a similar environment to the RTO testing ground.
- Vehicle Check: Make sure your vehicle is in good condition for the driving test. It should have working brakes, indicators, and lights.
Driving Test Overview
The Delhi government resolved to develop a more transparent, thorough, consistent, and strict screening process for driver’s license applicants. The Delhi Transport Corporation set up 12 automated driving test centers around the city. At the DTC, applicants are evaluated on 20 different parameters. A Motor Vehicle Inspector does the driving test in Delhi at the RTO. It usually includes:
- Basic Vehicle Control: Show you can start, stop, and control the vehicle smoothly. It also includes executing a three-point turn (turning the vehicle around in a confined space) with strong control and judgment.
- Reverse Parking: You will need to reverse into a specified parking space while exhibiting control and awareness.
- Road Driving: When driving, you must also show lane discipline, utilize indicators, follow speed restrictions, demonstrate safe overtaking, and be aware of pedestrian awareness.
- Traffic Signals and Signs: You’ll be tested on understanding and reacting to traffic signals and road signs. You must also answer the examiner’s questions on traffic rules and signage.
If you fail the driving test, don’t worry. You can retake it after seven days. Use this time to practice more and improve your skills.
Booking Your Driving Test Appointment
After getting your learner’s license, book a driving test. You can do this online or at the RTO office. On test day, bring:
- Your learner’s license.
- The receipt of application fee payment.
- Your vehicle (or the driving school vehicle, if applicable).
Online Test Booking
Booking your driving test online is easy and convenient. Just follow these simple steps:
- Log in to the Official Website: Go to the official Sarathi Parivahan website. Use your application details to log in.
- Select Test Slot: Pick the driving test option. Choose a date and time that works for you.
- Confirmation: After booking, you’ll get a confirmation. Save or print your appointment details.
Fees and Charges for Driving Licenses
Here are the fees for different driving licenses in Delhi:
| License-Related Parameters | Fee |
| Application for Learner’s License | Rs. 200 |
| Renewal of Learner’s License | Rs. 200 |
| Driving License Fees | Rs. 200 |
| Fees for Driving License Test | Rs. 300 |
| Renewal Driving License | Rs. 200 |
| Driving School License Issue and Renewal | Rs. 10,000 |
| Issuing a Duplicate Driving License | Rs. 200 |
| Fee for Appeal Against RTO | Rs. 500 |
| Issuing Driving Schools with Duplicate License | Rs. 5,000 |
| International Driving License Application | Rs. 1,000 |
Common Issues and Solutions During the Application Process
Here are some common problems that you can encounter with your Delhi driving license application:
- Incorrect Documents: Make sure you have all documents in the right format. Check the official website to avoid delays.
- Payment Failures: If payment fails, try again or call the helpline. Ensure a stable internet connection during payment.
- Booking Appointment Delays: Check for open slots often or visit the RTO for help. Booking early helps avoid delays.
- Failure in Learner’s License Test: If you fail, you can retake the test after 7 days. Study the driver’s handbook and practice sample questions.
- Driving Test Anxiety: Many feel nervous during the test. Practice in a similar environment and take mock tests to build confidence.
Summary
Getting a driving license in Delhi means knowing the different types of licenses available and the one you are applying for. You must also meet certain eligibility criteria before applying for a license. Following this, you can submit the right documents and take a driving test.
The Delhi Transport Department offers both online and offline options. This makes it easier for everyone to apply. A driving license is more than a legal requirement. It gives you freedom and mobility. Knowing the process and being prepared can help you get your license smoothly.
FAQ’s
Q. How long is the learner’s license valid in Delhi?
The learner’s license is valid for six months. During this time, you should practice driving with a licensed driver and prepare for your test.
Q. What is the minimum age for a commercial driving license?
To get a commercial driving license, you must be at least 20 years old. You also need to pass a medical test to show you’re fit to drive big vehicles.
Q. Can I apply for a driving license online in Delhi?
Yes, you can apply online by filling out the form, uploading documents, paying fees, and booking a test appointment.
Q. What happens if I fail the driving test?
If you fail the test, you can try again after 7 days. Use this time to practice more and improve areas where you struggled.
Q. Do I need a medical certificate for a learner’s license?
A medical certificate is needed for a commercial license or if you have a health condition. For regular learners and permanent licenses, it’s not required.
