A valid driving license is essential to drive in Lakshadweep, just as in any other Indian Union Territory. The Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Lakshadweep is responsible for licensing applicants and ensuring they comply with traffic regulations and road safety norms. Whether you want to obtain a new driver's license, move to Lakshadweep, or renew your license, understanding the application process eases the process. Follow the following steps to get a driving license in Lakshadweep.
Contents
Types of DL in Lakshadweep
Various Driving Licences (DL) are issued based on vehicle categories. Below is a summary:
Learner's Licence (LL)
A learner’s licence is a prerequisite for applying for a permanent DL. It is valid for six months and requires passing a basic learner’s test.
Permanent Driving Licence (DL)
Issued for personal, non-commercial vehicles like motorcycles, cars, and light motor vehicles.
Commercial Driving Licence (CDL)
Required for operating heavy or public transport vehicles like buses, taxis, and trucks. The process involves more stringent criteria due to the nature of these vehicles.
International Driving Permit (IDP)
Enables Indian citizens to drive in countries where Indian licences are recognised. Suitable for international travellers or expatriates requiring temporary permissions abroad.
How to Apply for a Driving Licence in Lakshadweep (Online/Offline)
Obtaining a driving license in Lakshadweep involves obtaining a learner’s licence and then a permanent one. Applicants can choose between online or offline methods for convenience.
How to Apply for a DL Online in Lakshadweep
Step 1: Visit the Official Website: Go to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (Parivahan Sewa) website.
Step 2: Select "Lakshadweep": Choose Lakshadweep from the list of states/UTs.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form: Enter details such as name, address, date of birth, and blood group.
Step 4: Upload Documents: Submit scanned copies of identity proof, age proof, address proof, and recent passport-sized photographs.
Step 5: Schedule Learner’s Test: Select a convenient date and pay the application fee online.
Step 6: Take the Learner’s Test: Appear for the test at the designated RTO to demonstrate knowledge of traffic rules.
Step 7: Receive Learner’s Licence: Once you pass, the licence will be issued and sent to your email or registered address.
Step 8: Apply for Permanent DL: After holding the learner’s licence for at least 30 days, complete Form 4 for a permanent DL.
Step 9: Schedule Driving Test: Select a test date online.
Step 10: Appear for the Driving Test: Visit the RTO with your vehicle to demonstrate driving skills, road sign knowledge, and parking abilities.
Step 11: Receive Permanent DL: Upon passing, the permanent DL will be issued and delivered to your registered address.
How to Apply for a DL Offline in Lakshadweep
Step 1: Visit the RTO Office: Collect Form 1A (Medical Certificate) and Form 2 (Learner's Licence Application).
Step 2: Complete Documentation: Fill out the forms and attach proof of age, identity, address, and passport-sized photographs.
Step 3: Pay the Fee: Submit the required fee at the RTO office.
Step 4: Schedule Learner’s Test: Book a test date to evaluate your knowledge of traffic rules.
Step 5: Obtain Learner’s Licence: On passing the test, the licence will be issued immediately or sent to your address.
Step 6: Apply for Permanent DL: After 30 days, complete Form 4 and schedule a driving test.
Step 7: Attend the Driving Test: Demonstrate driving skills and knowledge at the RTO. Upon passing, your permanent DL will be issued.
Driving Test Procedure in Lakshadweep
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid learner's licence for 30 to 180 days to apply for a permanent DL. The process includes structured tests assessing driving skills and traffic knowledge.
Two-Wheelers and Three-Wheelers Driving Test
Figure-of-Eight Test: Demonstrate balance and precision on a figure-of-eight track without touching the ground.
Road Skills Assessment: Display safe driving practices, adherence to traffic rules, and proper vehicle handling on public roads.
Following these steps, you can acquire a driving licence in Lakshadweep.
Test Day Requirements
Documents: Carry your original Learner's Licence, test application acknowledgement receipt, proof of fee payment, and vehicle insurance and registration papers.
Vehicle Condition: Ensure your vehicle works appropriately and complies with safety standards.
Post-Test Procedure
Results: The examiner provides immediate feedback.
Re-Test: Unsuccessful applicants can reapply after a seven-day waiting period.
Licence Issuance: Successful candidates will receive their driving licence by post.
Four-Wheelers Driving Test
Vehicle Manoeuvres: Navigate patterns like ‘H’ or ‘T’ to demonstrate control and handling skills.
Traffic Driving Assessment: Showcase safe driving practices in traffic conditions, following road signs and regulations.
Parking Skills: Demonstrate proficiency in parking techniques, including parallel and reverse parking.
Test Day Requirements
Documents: Carry your original Learner's Licence, test application acknowledgement receipt, proof of fee payment, and vehicle insurance and registration papers.
Vehicle Condition: Ensure your vehicle meets safety criteria and is in good condition.
Post-Test Procedure
Results: The examiner provides immediate feedback.
Re-Test: Reapply after a seven-day waiting period if unsuccessful.
Licence Issuance: Successful candidates will receive their licence by post.
How to Check Driving Licence Application Status in Lakshadweep
To track the status of your DL application in Lakshadweep, follow these steps:
Step 1- Visit the Sarathi Parivahan Portal: Go to the official Parivahan website.
Step 2- Select Lakshadweep: Choose "Lakshadweep" from the dropdown menu.
Step 3- Access Application Status: Click on the "Application Status" option in the menu.
Step 4- Enter Details: Input your application number and date of birth in the required fields.
Step 5- Submit and View Status: Click “Submit” to view your application status.
DL Fees in Lakshadweep
The RTO in Lakshadweep standardises the fees for various driving licence services. Below is a breakdown:
Purpose
Applicable For
Amount
Issue of Learner’s Licence (Form 3)
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹150
Learner’s Licence Test Fee or Repeat Test Fee
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹50
Driving Test Fee (each class of vehicle)
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹300
Issuance of Driving Licence
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹200
Issuance of International Driving Permit
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹1000
Addition of another class of vehicle
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹500
Renewal of Driving Licence
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹200
Renewal after grace period
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹300 + ₹1000/year of delay
Change of address or particulars
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹200
Eligibility Criteria for Applying for a Driving Licence in Lakshadweep
To apply for a Driving Licence (DL) in Lakshadweep, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria based on the type of vehicle, licence category, and additional requirements:
Category
Eligibility Criteria
Motorcycles without Gear
Minimum 16 years old. Parental consent is required if under 18. Must have basic knowledge of traffic rules.
Motorcycles with Gear & Cars
Minimum 18 years old. Must provide valid age and address proof and understand traffic rules.
Heavy Commercial Vehicles
Minimum 20 years old with at least 1 year experience driving light motor vehicles. Must have passed 8th grade. Required training from a government-recognised school.
Medical Fitness
Applicants above 50 or those applying for a commercial licence must submit a medical certificate.
Traffic Rules Knowledge
Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of traffic rules, road signs, and safety norms for the learner's test.
Meeting these criteria is essential for progressing with the DL application process, including applying for a Smart Card Driving Licence (DL) for improved durability and data security.
Documents Required for Driving Licence Application in Lakshadweep
Below are the documents needed to apply for a DL in Lakshadweep. Requirements vary slightly between a Learner’s Licence and a Permanent Driving Licence.
Documents Required for a Learner’s Licence
Proof of Age(anyone):
Birth Certificate
School Leaving Certificate
PAN Card
Passport
Proof of Address (any one):
Voter ID Card
Aadhaar Card
Utility Bill (electricity, water, or telephone bill)
Rental Agreement
Passport
Medical Certificate (Form 1A):
Required for applicants above 50 years or those applying for a commercial licence.
Passport-sized Photographs:
Recent copies for verification.
Documents Required for a Permanent Driving Licence
Learner’s Licence: Must be at least 30 days old.
Application Form (Form 4): Standard form for a permanent driving licence.
Passport-sized photographs: Recent copies are needed for identity verification.
DL Renewal
Follow the procedures and submit the required documents to renew your driving licence in Lakshadweep.
Licence Validity
A private driving licence is valid for 20 years or until the holder turns 50, whichever comes first.
Renewal is required once this validity expires.
Where to Apply
Visit the nearest RTO office in Lakshadweep for in-person applications.
Alternatively, apply online via the Parivahan Sewa portal for convenience.
Required Documents
Original expired driving licence.
Proof of Age: Aadhaar card, PAN card, or birth certificate.
Proof of Address: Aadhaar card, utility bills, or rental agreement.
Medical Certificate: Required for applicants above 50 or those renewing a commercial licence.
Recent passport-sized photograph.
Renewal Fee: The standard fee is ₹200. Additional charges may apply for services like smart card issuance.
Renewed Licence Validity
Under 50 years: Validity is 10 years.
Over 50 years: Validity is reduced to 5 years.
Commercial licences: Valid for 5 years, irrespective of age.
Processing Time: The renewed licence is usually issued within a few working days after submission and approval.
Duplicate DL in Lakshadweep
If your driving licence is lost, damaged, or defaced in Lakshadweep, you can apply for a duplicate by submitting the required documents and completing the application process.
Documents Required for Duplicate DL
Application Form 2: Fill out and submit the prescribed form available at the RTO or online through the Parivahan Sewa portal.
Original Licence: If the licence is defaced or partially damaged, provide it for verification.
Photocopy of Licence: If the original is lost, submit attested photocopies, if available.
Prescribed Fees: Pay the applicable fees as per transport department guidelines, including user charges.
Proof of Age and Address: Provide documents like an Aadhaar card, PAN card, or utility bills.
FIR or NCR (Non-Cognizable Report): If the licence is lost or stolen, submit an FIR or NCR from the local police station.
How to Apply for a Duplicate DL in Lakshadweep
Visit the RTO Office
Go to the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Lakshadweep, where your original licence was issued.
Collect and complete the application form (Form 2).
Online Application
Visit the Parivahan Sewa portal.
Select "Driving Licence Services" and then "Apply for Duplicate DL."
Fill in the necessary details and upload scanned copies of your documents.
Submit Documents
Attach all required documents, including proof of age, address, and FIR/NCR (if applicable).
Submit these along with the completed application form.
Pay Fees
Pay the prescribed fees online or at the RTO office and obtain a payment receipt.
Verification and Processing
The RTO will verify your documents and process your application.
If all documents are verified, the duplicate DL will be issued.
Receive Duplicate Licence
Once approved, you can collect the duplicate DL from the RTO or receive it by post.
Ensure your documents are complete and accurate so that you receive your duplicate driving licence promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to Driving Licence in Lakshadweep
Can I choose my preferred language for Lakshadweep’s learner’s licence test?
The learner’s licence test is available in multiple languages, including Hindi, English, and regional dialects.
What should I do if I need to correct my online driving licence application?
If you make an error in your application, you can correct it before final submission through the Parivahan Sewa portal.
Can I track the status of my driving licence application after completing the test?
Yes, you can track the status of your application online using the Parivahan Sewa portal.
Can I apply for a two-wheeler and four-wheeler licence simultaneously in Lakshadweep?
You can apply for a learner’s licence for both vehicle types simultaneously.
Are there special provisions for people with disabilities applying for a driving licence in Lakshadweep?
Special provisions allow individuals with disabilities to obtain a "restricted" licence for customised or modified vehicles.
What happens if I drive without a valid licence while waiting for my new one in Lakshadweep?
Even during processing, driving without a valid licence can result in penalties or fines under local traffic regulations.