A valid driver’s licence is a legal requirement for operating vehicles in Nagaland, as in other Indian states. The Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Nagaland is responsible for issuing licences, and ensuring drivers comply with road safety regulations. Whether you are applying for the first time, transferring your licence to Nagaland, or renewing an existing one, knowing the process can make things smoother. This guide outlines the key steps to securing a Driving Licence (DL) in Nagaland.
Contents
Types of DL in Nagaland
The type of driving licence you need depends on the vehicle you intend to drive. Below is a breakdown of the licences available in Nagaland:
Learner's Licence (LL)
The learner’s licence is the initial step toward obtaining a driving licence. It is a provisional permit for beginners to practice driving under certain conditions. This licence is valid for six months and prepares the holder for the permanent licence test.
Permanent Driving Licence (DL)
After holding a learner’s licence for at least 30 days and passing the driving test, applicants can acquire a permanent licence. This allows unrestricted driving on public roads.
Commercial Driving Licence (CDL)
For those driving heavy or commercial vehicles such as trucks, buses, or taxis, a commercial licence is mandatory. Due to the greater responsibility involved, the eligibility requirements for this licence are stricter.
International Driving Permit (IDP)
An International Driving Permit enables Indian citizens to drive in foreign countries that accept the IDP. It is an essential document for those travelling abroad or working overseas.
How to Apply for a Driving Licence (Online/Offline) in Nagaland
The process for obtaining a driving licence in Nagaland starts with a learner’s licence, followed by a permanent licence upon passing the required tests. Applicants can complete the process either online or offline.
How to Apply for a DL Online in Nagaland
Applying online provides the convenience of handling the procedure from home. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the official portal of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
Step 2: Select "Nagaland" from the state dropdown menu to proceed.
Step 3: Apply for a learner’s licence by filling out the application form with your details, including name, address, date of birth, and blood group.
Step 4: Upload scanned copies of documents like proof of age and address, and select a date for your learner’s licence test.
Step 5: Pay the application fee online to confirm your test appointment.
Step 6: Appear at the designated RTO on the scheduled date to take the test, which assesses your knowledge of traffic rules and road safety.
Step 7: Upon passing, your learner’s licence will be issued. You can download it, receive it by email, or request delivery to your address.
Step 8: After holding your learner’s licence for at least 30 days, apply for a permanent licence. Fill out Form 4 online and pay the necessary fee.
Step 9: Schedule a date for your driving test at the RTO.
Step 10: Bring your vehicle to the RTO on the test day and demonstrate your driving abilities, including basic manoeuvres and parking.
Step 11: If successful, your permanent licence will be issued and can be collected from the RTO or sent to your registered address.
How to Apply for a DL Offline in Nagaland
For those who prefer in-person assistance, here’s how to apply offline:
Step 1: Visit the nearest RTO and collect the required forms, such as Form 1A (Medical Certificate) and Form 2 (Learner’s Licence Application).
Step 2: Fill out the forms with accurate details and attach documents like proof of identity and address.
Step 3: Submit passport-sized photographs and pay the application fee.
Step 4: Schedule a date for the learner’s licence test. This test will evaluate your understanding of road signs, traffic rules, and safety practices.
Step 5: Upon passing the test, the learner’s licence will be issued immediately or sent to your address.
Step 6: After holding the learner’s licence for at least 30 days, submit Form 4 for a permanent licence and schedule a driving test date.
Step 7: Appear for the driving test at the RTO. If you pass, your permanent licence will be issued and can be collected or delivered to your registered address.
Driving Test Procedure in Nagaland
To apply for a permanent driving licence in Nagaland, you must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid Learner's Licence that has been active for 30 to 180 days. Applications can be submitted online through the Parivahan Sewa Portal or directly at the local RTO office. Passing a mandatory driving test is essential to demonstrate both practical driving skills and knowledge of traffic laws.
Two-Wheelers and Three-Wheelers Driving Test
Figure-Eight Maneuver: Riders must complete a figure-of-eight route without allowing their feet to touch the ground, showcasing their control and balance.
Road Skills Assessment: Candidates are evaluated on their ability to drive safely in real-world traffic, focusing on awareness and adherence to rules.
Test Day Requirements
Original Learner's Licence, test acknowledgement receipt, proof of fee payment, and the insurance and registration documents for the vehicle.
A vehicle in good working condition that meets all safety standards.
After the Test
Feedback: The examiner will inform you immediately of your performance.
Re-Test Option: If you fail, you may retake the test after a seven-day gap.
Licence Dispatch: Successfully passing the test means your licence will be delivered by post.
Four-Wheelers Driving Test
Vehicle Maneuvers: Perform patterns like ‘H’ or ‘T’ to demonstrate vehicle control and precision.
Traffic Driving: Navigate traffic while following road signs, rules, and safety norms.
Parking Skills: Display the ability to park in various scenarios, including parallel and reverse parking.
Test Day Requirements
Carry your Learner's Licence, test receipt, proof of fee payment, and vehicle insurance and registration documents.
Ensure the test vehicle is in excellent working condition and meets safety standards.
Post-Test Process
Results: Feedback is provided immediately.
Re-Test Policy: In case of failure, you can reapply after seven days.
Licence Delivery: Successful candidates will receive their licence by post.
How to Check Driving Licence Application Status in Nagaland
Follow these steps to track your driving licence application:
Access the Sarathi Parivahan Portal: Visit the official website.
Select Nagaland: Choose "Nagaland" from the dropdown menu under "Select State Name."
Go to Application Status: You will be redirected to the state portal, where you can select "Application Status."
Enter Details: Provide your application number and date of birth.
View Status: Submit the details to view the current status of your application.
DL Fees in Nagaland
The Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Nagaland has standardised fees for various driving licence services.
Purpose
Applicable for
Amount
Issue of Learner’s Licence (Form 3) for each class of vehicle
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹150
Learner’s Licence Test Fee or Repeat Test Fee
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹50
Driving Test Fee (for 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 to the Driving Licence
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler0
₹500
Endorsement or renewal of authorisation for vehicles carrying hazardous goods
Four-wheeler (commercial)
₹100
Renewal of Driving Licence
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹200
Renewal of Driving Licence after grace period
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹300 + ₹1000 per year of delay
Issue or renewal of licence to a school/establishment for driving instruction
Not vehicle-specific
₹10000
Issue of duplicate licence to a school/establishment for driving instruction
Not vehicle-specific
₹5000
Appeal against orders of licensing authority
Not vehicle-specific
₹500
Change of address or other particulars in Driving Licence
Two-wheeler/Four-wheeler
₹200
Eligibility Criteria for Applying for a Driving Licence in Nagaland
To apply for a DL in Nagaland, specific eligibility requirements must be met, which vary depending on the vehicle type and the type of licence:
Vehicle Type
Eligibility Criteria
Motorcycles without Gear
(e.g., scooters, mopeds, engine capacity up to 50cc)
Minimum 16 years old.
Consent from a guardian or parent if under 18.
Must be aware of traffic rules and regulations.
Must have valid age proof and address proof documents.
Motorcycles with Gear & Cars
Minimum 18 years old.
Must be aware of traffic rules and regulations.
Must have valid age proof and address proof documents.
Heavy Commercial Vehicles
Minimum 20 years old with at least one year of experience driving a light motor vehicle.
Must have cleared the 8th standard.
Required training from a government/state-affiliated training school.
Medical Fitness
Mandatory medical certificate for applicants over 50 or those applying for a commercial licence.
A registered medical practitioner should issue the certificate.
Traffic Rules Knowledge
Applicants should know traffic rules, road signs, and general safety norms.
This knowledge is essential for passing the learner's test.
Meeting the eligibility criteria is crucial to proceed with the application process for any type of DL, including a Smart Card Driving Licence (DL). A Smart Card Driving Licence (DL) is an upgraded, secure version of the traditional driving licence designed for better durability and data management. Individuals not meeting these criteria cannot apply for a driving licence in Nagaland.
Documents Required for Driving Licence Application
Applying for a driving licence in Nagaland requires specific documents. These differ slightly depending on whether you are applying for a learner’s or a permanent driving licence.
Documents Required for a Learner’s Licence:
Age Proof (Choose any one):
Birth Certificate
School Leaving Certificate
PAN Card
Passport
Proof of Address (one of the following):
Voter ID
Aadhaar Card
Utility Bill (Electricity, Water, or Telephone)
Rental Agreement
Passport
Medical Certificate (Form 1A):
Mandatory for applicants above 50 years or those seeking a commercial licence.
Passport-sized Photographs:
A few recent passport-sized photos are required for identification purposes.
Documents Required for a Permanent Driving Licence:
Learner’s Licence: Must be valid for at least 30 days before applying.
Application Form (Form 4): Required for submission when applying for a permanent licence.
Photographs: Recent passport-sized photos for verification.
DL Renewal
To renew your driving licence in Nagaland, follow these steps and ensure you meet the requirements:
Validity Period:
Private licences are valid for 20 years or until the licence holder turns 50 years old, whichever occurs first.
Renewal is required after this period.
Application Methods:
Visit the nearest RTO office to apply in person.
Alternatively, use the Parivahan Sewa portal for online applications.
Required Documents:
Original expired licence.
Age Proof (e.g., Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Birth Certificate).
Address Proof (e.g., Aadhaar Card, Utility Bills, or Rental Agreement).
Medical Certificate: Needed for applicants over 50 or for commercial licence renewals.
Recent passport-sized photos.
Fees:
The standard renewal fee is ₹200. Additional charges may apply for smart card issuance or other services.
Renewal Validity:
For applicants under 50 years: Renewed licence is valid for 10 years.
For applicants above 50 years: Renewed licence is valid for 5 years.
For commercial licences: Typically valid for 5 years across all age groups.
Processing Time:
Approved applications usually result in licence issuance within a few working days.
Duplicate DL in Nagaland
If you've lost or damaged your driving licence in Nagaland, obtaining a duplicate is simple with the proper steps. The process requires submitting essential documents like proof of identity, address, and an application form. Here’s how to get a duplicate:
Documents Required for Duplicate DL
Application Form 2:
Available at the RTO office or the Parivahan Sewa portal.
Original or Photocopy of Licence:
Submit the damaged or partially defaced licence.
If lost, attach attested photocopies, if available.
Age and Address Proof:
Documents such as Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, or Utility Bills are acceptable.
FIR or NCR (Non-Cognizable Report):
If the licence is lost or stolen, submit a report from the local police station.
Fees:
Pay the required charges, including any user fees, as set by the Nagaland Transport Department.
How to Apply for a Duplicate DL
Visit the RTO Office:
Go to the RTO where your original licence was issued.
Collect and fill out Form 2.
Online Application:
Log in to the Parivahan Sewa portal and select “Driving Licence Services.”
Choose “Apply for Duplicate DL” and upload scanned copies of the required documents.
Submit the Documents:
Attach all necessary proofs, including age, address, FIR/NCR (if applicable), and the completed form.
Payment:
Pay the prescribed fee either online or at the RTO counter. Keep the receipt.
Verification and Approval:
The RTO will verify your documents before processing the application.
Receive the Duplicate Licence:
The duplicate licence will be sent to your address by post or can be collected in person from the RTO.
Ensure your application is accurate and complete to avoid delays in obtaining a duplicate licence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to Driving Licence in Nagaland
Can I apply for a driving licence in Nagaland permanently if I don’t reside there?
Yes, non-permanent residents can apply for a driving licence in Nagaland by providing proof of temporary address, such as a rental agreement or a utility bill from their current residence in the state.
Can I apply for a learner’s licence in Nagaland without an Aadhaar Card?
You can apply using alternative documents like a passport, voter ID, or utility bill for address proof and a birth certificate or PAN card for age proof.
Is bringing my vehicle for the driving test in Nagaland is mandatory?
Yes, applicants must bring a vehicle that matches the licence category they are applying for. The vehicle should be in good condition and comply with safety standards.
Can I request expedited processing for my driving licence application in Nagaland?
While standard processing times apply, you may check with the RTO for premium services, which expedite application processing in some instances.
What is the penalty for driving without a licence in Nagaland?
Driving without a valid licence can result in fines ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000, depending on the nature of the violation, as per the Motor Vehicles Act.
What should I do if my driving licence application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, review the reason for rejection provided by the RTO. Address the issue, submit the required corrections or missing documents, and reapply online or offline.