Obtaining a Driving Licence Online in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

In the digital age, the process of acquiring a driving licence in India has been streamlined significantly. As on January 2025, you can now apply for your driving licences online, eliminating the need to visit the Regional Transport Office (RTO), as long as you possess an Aadhaar card. This advancement in the process not only saves time but also enhances convenience for applicants. This article is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process of applying for both a learning licence and a permanent driving licence through the official Parivahan Seva portal.

Understanding the Online Application Process

The online application for a driving licence is divided into two main steps:

  1. Obtaining a Learning Licence: This is the first step in the process. You must pass a test that can be taken from your mobile devices or computers. Upon successful completion of the test, a learning licence number is issued.
  2. Applying for a Permanent Driving Licence: After obtaining the learning licence, you can use this number to apply for your permanent driving licence.

Step-by-Step Process for Applying Learning Licence Online

Here is a detailed step-by-step process on how to apply for a learning licence online using the official Parivahan Seva portal.

  1. Go to Parivahan Sew portal; https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan/.
  2. Click “More” button under Drivers/ Learners License section.
  3. You will be prompted to select your state from a dropdown menu. Select your state from the list.
  4. Click on “Apply for Learning Licence”.
  5. If you are applying for the first time, it is crucial to obtain a learning licence first. Select the option indicating that you do not hold any existing driving licence and click “Submit.”
  6. You will have two methods for authentication; choose Aadhaar authentication to bypass RTO visits. Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and click “Generate OTP.” The OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number; enter it to proceed.
  7. Once authenticated, your personal information from Aadhaar will auto-fill in the application form. You may need to manually enter details such as your place of birth and educational qualifications.
  8. After completing all sections of the application, you will be directed to pay the required fees based on vehicle classes selected. Multiple payment methods are available, including net banking and credit/debit cards.
  9. After successful payment, ensure you generate and save your payment receipt for future reference.
  10. The final step involves taking the driving test online from home. It is mandatory to watch a road safety tutorial video provided on the portal before taking this test.

Step-by-Step Process for Applying Permanent Licence Online

In 2025, acquiring your permanent driving licence has become a streamlined process. This section provides a step-by-step process on how to apply for your permanent driving licence online, ensuring you receive your driving licence sent directly to your address.

  1. Go to Parivahan Sew portal; https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan/.
  2. Click “More” button under Drivers/ Learners License section.
  3. You will be prompted to select your state from a dropdown menu. Select your state from the list.
  4. Click on “Apply for Driving Licence”.
  5. You will be redirected to instruction for driving licence application process, click on “Continue” button.
  6. Now you will need to enter your Learner’s Licence Number, which can be found on your downloaded document. Additionally, select your date of birth from the calendar provided and complete the captcha verification before proceeding.
  7. After submitting your details, your learner’s licence information will be automatically fetched. You will receive an OTP on the mobile number linked to your learner’s licence. Enter this OTP along with the captcha code and click “Submit.”
  8. You will see your learner’s licence details displayed. You do not need to re-enter all information as it has been fetched automatically. However, if you need to update personal details such as educational qualifications or email addresses, you can do so at this stage. If you wish to change your address, there is an option available for that as well.
  9. Next, select the RTO office and choose the vehicle categories for which you wish to apply for a permanent licence. The options typically include motorcycle with gear and light motor vehicles. After making your selections, click “Submit.”
  10. Upon submission, an application reference number will be generated. Take note of this number as it is essential for tracking your application status. You can also print this information if needed.
  11. Now, navigate to the “Upload Documents” section. You will need to upload proof of address and proof of your learner’s licence number. Acceptable documents include a passport, voter ID card, or any government-issued identification. If you have an Aadhaar card, it is widely accepted as proof of identity and address.
  12. After successfully uploading all required documents, check the status again by entering the captcha code and clicking “Submit.” Once confirmed that document uploads are complete, proceed to pay the application fee.
  13. Click on “Proceed” to view the fee amount; it depends on vehicle selections. Choose the payment gateway option and follow the instructions provided. Enter your debit card details when prompted and complete the payment process by entering any OTP received from your bank.
  14. After payment confirmation, return to the dashboard and select “Application Status.” Enter your application number and date of birth again before submitting. Then proceed to book a driving test slot by selecting available dates from a calendar.
  15. Choose a suitable time slot based on your convenience and confirm your appointment by entering an OTP sent to your mobile or email.
  16. Once you have successfully booked your appointment, download or print the appointment slip containing all necessary details about your test date and vehicle types you are licensed to drive.
  17. On the day of your test at the RTO office, ensure that you arrive with any required documents and prepare for both theoretical and practical assessments using either their vehicles or yours.

FAQs About Driving Licence

What is the process for applying for a driving licence online?

The online application process involves two main steps: first, you must apply for a learning licence, which requires passing a test. Once you have your learning licence number, you can then apply for a permanent driving licence through the official Parivahan Seva portal.

Do I need to visit the RTO to obtain my driving licence?

No, as of January 20, 2025, you can complete the entire application process online without visiting the Regional Transport Office (RTO), provided you have an Aadhaar card.

What documents do I need to apply for a driving licence online?

To apply online, you primarily need your Aadhaar card for authentication. Additional information such as your educational qualifications and place of birth will also be required during the application process.

How do I authenticate my identity when applying online?

You can authenticate your identity using your Aadhaar card. After entering your 12-digit Aadhaar number on the Parivahan Seva portal, you will receive an OTP on your registered mobile number to verify your identity.

What payment methods are accepted for the application fees?

The Parivahan Seva portal accepts multiple payment methods, including net banking, credit cards, and debit cards. You can choose the method that is most convenient for you during the payment process.

How can I check the status of my application?

To check the status of your application, go to the Parivahan Seva portal and enter your application number along with your date of birth. This will allow you to view the current status of your application.

Is there an online driving test available?

Yes, after obtaining your learning licence, you can take the driving test online from home. It is mandatory to watch a road safety tutorial video provided on the portal before taking this test.

What should I do if I encounter issues during the application process?

If you face any issues while applying online, it is advisable to refer to the help section on the Parivahan Seva portal or contact their customer support for assistance.

How long does it take to receive my driving licence after completing all steps?

The time taken to receive your driving licence can vary based on processing times and state-specific regulations. Generally, once your application is approved and all requirements are met, you should receive your licence within a few weeks.

What is a permanent driving licence?

A permanent driving licence, also known as a regular licence, is a long-term driving permit that allows individuals to operate vehicles legally in India.

How do I apply for a permanent driving licence online?

To apply for a permanent driving licence, visit the official Transport Service portal, select “Apply for Driving Licence,” and follow the prompts to enter your learner’s licence number, date of birth, and other required information. After verification, you will be guided through the steps to upload necessary documents and pay the application fee.

What documents are required for the application of a permanent driving licence?

You need to provide proof of address (e.g., Aadhaar card, passport, or voter ID) and proof of your learner’s licence number. Ensure that the documents uploaded are not password protected.

How much is the application fee for a permanent driving licence?

The fee for processing your application can vary based on the vehicle types selected.

How can I pay the application fee for a permanent driving licence?

The application fee can be paid online through various payment gateways available on the Transport Service portal. You can use a debit card or other banking options to complete the payment securely.

How do I check the status of my permanent driving licence application?

After submitting your application and payment, you can check your application status by entering your application number and date of birth on the Parivahan Sewa portal.