Getting a driving license in India has undergone a massive digital transformation in 2026. Whether you are in Assam, Uttar Pradesh (Lucknow/Prayagraj), or anywhere else in India, the process is now more streamlined than ever through the Parivahan Sewa portal.
This ultimate guide covers everything from the Learner’s Driving Licence apply online process to the latest costs and rules.
🚗 The Ultimate Guide: How to Apply for Driving License Online in India (2026)
Applying for a Driving License (DL) is now a 100% transparent process. You can apply for a license from the comfort of your home, especially with the new Aadhaar-based contactless services.
📑 Eligibility for Driving License in India
To be eligible for a DL, you must meet these criteria:
- 16 Years: For motorcycles without gear (capacity up to 50cc).
- 18 Years: For motorcycles with gear and Light Motor Vehicles (LMV – Cars).
- 20 Years: For Commercial/Transport vehicles.
- Mandatory Requirement: You must first obtain a Learner’s License (LL) and hold it for at least 30 days before applying for a permanent DL.
📁 Documents Required for Driving License
Before you start your Driving licence apply journey, keep these scanned documents ready:
- Age Proof: Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Birth Certificate, or 10th Marksheet.
- Address Proof: Aadhaar, Voter ID, Ration Card, or Utility Bills.
- Medical Certificate: Form 1A (Mandatory for applicants over 40 or for commercial licenses).
- Photographs: Scanned passport-size photos and signature.
💻 Step-by-Step: How to Apply Driving License Online
The Parivahan Driving licence apply process is consistent across most states:
- Visit Parivahan Portal: Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in.
- Select State: Choose your state (e.g., Assam or Uttar Pradesh).
- Apply for Learner’s License first:
- Choose “Apply for Learner Licence”.
🌐 Official Application Portals
- Choose “Apply for Learner Licence”.
- Parivahan Sewa (National Portal): parivahan.gov.in
- This is the main hub for all states. Use this to find “Driving Licence Related Services.”
- Sarathi Parivahan (Direct Application Link): sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
- Direct link to select your state and start the Learner’s or Permanent DL application.
- Sewa Setu Assam: sewasetu.assam.gov.in
- Dedicated portal for citizens of Assam to access streamlined transport services.
📱 Official Mobile Apps (Digital DL & RC)
- mParivahan (Google Play Store): Download for Android
- mParivahan (Apple App Store): Download for iOS
- DigiLocker: digilocker.gov.in
- Use this to store and show your DL legally on your phone.
🛠️ Useful Tools & Payment
- Check Application Status: Click here to track your DL
- E-Payment Portal: Pay your DL fees online
- Mock Test for Learner’s License: Practice before the exam
💡 How to use these links in your blog:
I recommend hyperlinking these naturally within your text. For example:
“To begin your journey, visit the Sarathi Parivahan portal and select your state to fill out the form.”
- Select “Aadhaar Authentication” for a “Contactless” experience (you can take the LL test from home).
- Fill the form, upload documents, and pay the fee.
- Apply for Permanent DL:
- After 30 days of holding your LL, return to the portal.
- Select “Apply for Driving Licence”.
- Enter your LL number and date of birth.
- Book Test Slot: Choose a date to visit the RTO for the practical driving test.
- Payment: Pay the driving license fee online.
📍 State-Specific Details (UP & Assam)
Driving License Online Apply in UP (Lucknow/Prayagraj)
If you are looking to apply driving licence online near Lucknow or Prayagraj, the process is fully digital under the UP Transport Department.
- Cost in UP: Approximately ₹1,000 to ₹1,200 for a combined LMV + Motorcycle license (including test fees and smart card charges).
- RTO Visit: For Lucknow (UP-32) and Prayagraj (UP-70), you must book a slot online for the physical driving test after your LL expires its 30-day waiting period.
How to Apply for DL in Assam?
The Assam Transport Department also uses the Sarathi portal.
- Cost in Assam: A Learner’s License costs around ₹200, and a Permanent DL costs approximately ₹700–₹800 (including smart card fees).
- Special Platform: You can also use the Sewa Setu Assam portal for a faster experience.
💰 How much is the cost of a Driving License in India?
While it varies slightly by state, here is the average fee structure:
| License Type | Approx. Fee (INR) |
| Learner’s License (LL) | ₹150 – ₹200 |
| LL Test Fee | ₹50 |
| Permanent DL (Per Class) | ₹200 |
| Driving Test Fee | ₹300 |
| Smart Card Fee | ₹200 |
| Total (Average) | ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 |
🚦 New Rules & Key Updates 2026
- No RTO Test Required? Under the new rules, if you complete training from an Accredited Private Driving Training Centre, you don’t need to take the driving test at the RTO. The certificate they provide is enough to get your DL!
- Contactless Services: For Learner’s Licenses, most states now allow you to take the exam via your webcam at home using Aadhaar e-KYC.
- Validity of Online DL: A digital DL on the mParivahan or DigiLocker app is 100% valid and legally equal to a physical card across India. 📱
❓ FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Q: Can I apply for DL anywhere in India?
A: You should ideally apply at the RTO where you currently reside. If you are applying in a different city, you must provide a local address proof (like a rent agreement).
Q: How many days to get a driving license?
A: After passing the driving test, it usually takes 2 to 4 weeks for the smart card to be delivered to your address via Speed Post.
Q: How to get a license fast in India?
A: Use the Aadhaar-based application for the Learner’s License to skip the RTO visit for the initial stage. Ensure all documents are clear to avoid rejections.
Q: How to do a Driving licence download?
A: Once approved, go to the Parivahan portal -> ‘Informational Services’ -> ‘Know your DL Details’, or simply fetch it on the DigiLocker app using your DL number.
