Types of DL in Maharashtra
Maharashtra offers various driving licences based on the vehicle type the applicant intends to drive. Here’s a breakdown of the most common licences:
Learner's Licence (LL)
The first step in getting a driver's licence is the Learner's Licence, which allows you to learn to drive under supervision. This provisional licence is valid for six months, during which you must prepare for the driving test required to obtain a permanent licence.
Permanent Driving Licence (DL)
Once you've held the Learner's Licence for at least 30 days and have successfully passed the driving test, you become eligible for a Permanent Driving Licence. This licence grants you the freedom to drive independently on public roads.
Commercial Driving Licence (CDL)
A Commercial Driving Licence is required for those driving large vehicles like trucks, buses, or taxis. The eligibility criteria for this licence are stricter, given the nature of the job.
International Driving Permit (IDP)
The IDP is available to Indian citizens and allows them to drive in foreign countries that recognise the permit. This document is helpful for travellers and expatriates.
How to Apply for a Driving Licence (Online/Offline) in Maharashtra
Obtaining a DL in Maharashtra involves applying for a Learner's Licence first and then progressing to a permanent licence after passing the driving test. You can apply either online or offline, depending on your preference.
How to Apply for a DL Online in Maharashtra
The online method offers the convenience of handling your application from home. Follow these steps to apply online:
- Visit the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways Portal: Go to the official portal to start your application.
2. Select Maharashtra: Choose “Maharashtra” from the list to ensure your application is processed in the right region.
3. Apply for a Learner’s Licence: Complete the Learner's Licence application form with your details, like name, address, and date of birth.
4. Upload Documents: Scan and upload required documents, such as proof of identity and address, and select a date for your learner’s test.
5.Pay the Fee: Pay the application fee to confirm your booking for the learner's test.
6. Appear for the Learner’s Test: Visit the RTO on the scheduled date and take the learner's test, which evaluates your knowledge of traffic rules and road signs.
7. Receive Your Learner’s Licence: If you pass the test, your Learner’s Licence will be issued. You can download it, have it sent to your registered address, or receive it right away from the RTO.
8. Apply for Permanent Licence: After holding the Learner's Licence for 30 days, fill out Form 4 and pay the required fee online to apply for the permanent licence.
9. Schedule the Driving Test: Book a date for your driving test at the RTO.
10. Appear for the Driving Test: Bring your vehicle and demonstrate your driving skills at the RTO on the scheduled day. The test covers basic driving abilities, adherence to traffic rules, and parking.
11. Receive Your Permanent Licence: If you pass, your Permanent Driving Licence will be issued within a few days and sent to your registered address.
How to Apply for a DL Offline in Maharashtra
If you prefer handling things in person, here’s how you can apply offline:
- Locate Your Nearest RTO: Find the nearest RTO and get the necessary application forms, including Form 1A (Medical Certificate) and Form 2 (Learner's Licence Application).
- Fill Out the Forms: Complete the forms with accurate personal information and attach the required documents.
- Submit Photographs and Payment: Submit passport-sized photographs and pay the application fee for processing.
- Schedule the Learner’s Test: Choose a date for your learner’s test, which assesses your understanding of road safety, traffic rules, and road signs.
- Receive Your Learner’s Licence: If you pass the test, your Learner's Licence will be issued on the spot or sent to your registered address.
- Apply for a Permanent Licence: After holding your Learner’s Licence for at least 30 days, submit Form 4 at the RTO to apply for your Permanent Licence.
- Take the Driving Test: Appear for the driving test, where you'll demonstrate your driving skills. If successful, you will receive your Permanent Driving Licence.
Driving Test Procedure in Maharashtra
To obtain a permanent driving licence in Maharashtra, applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid Learner’s Licence for a minimum of 30 days. The process involves submitting an application, paying fees, and passing a structured driving test to prove your competence in handling a vehicle.
Two-Wheelers and Three-Wheelers Driving Test
- Figure-of-Eight Test: You will be asked to navigate a figure-of-eight pattern without touching your feet to the ground, testing your balance and control.
- Road Skills Evaluation: You’ll be required to drive on public roads, demonstrating safe driving practices and adherence to traffic rules.
Test Day Requirements:
- Bring your original Learner’s Licence and test application receipt.
- The vehicle must be in good working condition and meet safety standards.
Post-Test Procedure:
- If you pass, the results will be communicated immediately, and your Driving Licence will be sent by post.
- If you don’t pass, you can reapply for the test after a waiting period of seven days.
Four-Wheelers Driving Test
- Vehicle Manoeuvres: Perform specific tasks like 'H' or 'T' patterns to demonstrate control and precision while handling the vehicle.
- Traffic Driving Evaluation: Drive in actual traffic conditions, adhere to road signs, and follow safety protocols.
- Parking Skills: You will be asked to demonstrate parallel, reverse, and other essential parking techniques.
Test Day Requirements:
- Ensure you bring all necessary documents, including your Learner’s Licence, test application receipt, and vehicle documents.
Post-Test Procedure:
- After the test, the examiner will provide immediate feedback.
- If you fail, you can reapply for the test after seven days.
- A successful test will result in your Driving Licence being sent to you by post.
How to Check Driving Licence Application Status in Maharashtra
To check the progress of your driving licence application in Maharashtra, follow these simple steps:
- Visit the Sarathi Parivahan Portal: Open the official website of the Sarathi Parivahan Portal.
2. Select Maharashtra: On the homepage, you will see a dropdown menu labelled "Select State Name." Choose "Maharashtra."
3. Find Application Status: Once you are redirected to the Maharashtra-specific page, look for the "Application Status" link in the top menu.
4. Enter Details: You will be prompted to enter your application number and date of birth. Have these details ready.
5. Submit and Check: After entering the required information, click "Submit," and your application status will appear on the screen.
DL Fees in Maharashtra
The Regional Transport Office (RTO) of Maharashtra has set standard fees for various services related to driving licences. Here's a breakdown:
Purpose | Vehicle Type | Amount |
| Learner's Licence Issue (Form 3) | Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler | ₹150 |
| Learner's Test Fee or Repeat Test | Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler | ₹50 |
| Driving Test Fee (each vehicle type) | Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler | ₹300 |
| Issuance of Driving Licence | Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler | ₹200 |
| International Driving Permit | Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler | ₹1000 |
| Addition of Class to Licence | Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler | ₹500 |
| Renewal of Driving Licence | Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler | ₹200 |
| Renewal After Grace Period | Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler | ₹300 + ₹1000 per year of delay |
| Driving Licence for Schools/Institutes | Not vehicle-specific | ₹10000 |
| Duplicate Licence for Schools/Institutes | Not vehicle-specific | ₹5000 |
| Appeal Against Licensing Authority | Not vehicle-specific | ₹500 |
| Change of Address or Details in DL | Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler | ₹200 |
Eligibility Criteria for Applying for a Driving Licence in Maharashtra
You must meet certain eligibility requirements in Maharashtra to apply for a driving licence. These requirements differ based on the vehicle type and licence category:
Vehicle Type | Eligibility Criteria |
| Motorcycles without Gear (e.g., scooters, mopeds under 50cc) | - Minimum age: 16 years - Parental consent is required if under 18 - Knowledge of traffic rules - Proof of age and address |
| Motorcycles with Gear & Cars | - Minimum age: 18 years - Knowledge of traffic rules - Proof of age and address |
| Heavy Commercial Vehicles | - Minimum age: 20 years with at least one year of light vehicle driving experience - Must have cleared 8th grade - Required training from a certified institution |
| Medical Fitness | - A medical certificate is mandatory for applicants over 50 or those applying for a commercial licence |
| Traffic Knowledge | - Knowledge of traffic rules, signs, and safety measures is essential for passing the learner’s test |
It is essential to meet the eligibility criteria to proceed with the application process for any type of driving licence, including the Smart Card Driving Licence (DL). The Smart Card DL is a more secure and durable version of the traditional licence, offering enhanced data management. Those who fail to meet the required criteria are ineligible to apply for a driving licence in Maharashtra.
Documents Required for Driving Licence Application
When applying for a driving licence, you need to submit specific documents, which vary slightly depending on whether you are applying for a learner’s or permanent licence:
Documents Required for a Learner’s Licence:
Proof of Age (one of the following):
- Birth Certificate
- School Leaving Certificate
- PAN Card
- Passport
Proof of Address (one of the following):
- Voter ID Card
- Aadhaar Card
- Utility Bill (electricity, water, or telephone bill)
- Rental Agreement
- Passport
Medical Certificate (Form 1A):
This form is required for applicants above 50 or those applying for a commercial licence.
Passport-sized Photographs:
A few copies of recent passport-sized photographs are required for identity 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 permanent DL
- Photographs: Recent passport-sized images for verification
DL Renewal
To renew your driving licence, follow these steps:
- Licence Validity: A private driving licence lasts 20 years or until the holder turns 50. After this, renewal is necessary.
- Where to Apply:
- Apply in person at the nearest RTO.
- Alternatively, use the Parivahan Sewa portal for online applications.
- Required Documents:
- Expired licence (original)
- Age proof (e.g., Aadhaar card, PAN card)
- Address proof (e.g., utility bill, Aadhaar card)
- Medical certificate (for those over 50 or commercial licence renewals)
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Renewal Fee: The standard renewal fee is ₹200. Additional charges may apply for services like issuing a smart card.
- Renewal Validity:
- For individuals under 50 years: Licence valid for 10 years
- For those over 50 years: Validity reduced to 5 years
- For commercial licences: Typically valid for 5 years
- Processing Time: Once processed, the renewed licence is generally issued in a few working days.
Duplicate DL in Maharashtra
If your driving licence is lost, damaged, or defaced, you can apply for a duplicate by following these steps:
Documents Required for Duplicate DL
- Form 2: Completed application form for a duplicate licence.
- Original Licence: If damaged, submit it for verification.
- Photocopy: If lost, provide a photocopy of the licence (attested, if possible).
- Fees: Pay the prescribed fees as per Maharashtra Transport Department guidelines.
- Proof of Age & Address: Submit documents like an Aadhaar card, PAN card, or utility bills.
- FIR or NCR: If the licence is lost or stolen, submit an FIR or NCR from the local police.
How to Apply for a Duplicate DL
- In-Person: Visit the RTO where the original licence was issued. Collect and complete Form 2.
- Online:
- Visit the Parivahan Sewa portal and select “Apply for Duplicate DL.”
- Complete the form and upload scanned documents.
- Submit Documents: Provide the necessary documents, including age and address proofs, and the FIR (if applicable).
- Pay Fees: Make the required payment online or at the RTO.
- Verification: The RTO will verify your documents before processing your request.
- Receive Duplicate Licence: After approval, the duplicate licence will be sent to you by post or can be collected from the RTO.
Ensure that all your documents are correct to avoid delays in the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
