How to Apply for a Learner's Licence (LL) Online in India
Get your official Learner's Licence from the comfort of your home without visiting a physical RTO office using Aadhaar contactless authentication.
📌 What is a Learner's Licence (LL)?
A Learner's Licence (LL) is an official provisional permit issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. It allows an individual to legally practice driving on public roads accompanied by an instructor or someone holding a valid permanent driving licence. A learner's licence is valid across all Indian states for 6 months from the date of issue. After 30 days of holding an LL, you become eligible to take the practical driving test for a permanent Driving Licence (DL).
Learner's Licence Eligibility Criteria by Vehicle Class
Before submitting your application on the Sarathi portal, verify that you meet the minimum age and physical fitness criteria:
| Vehicle Category | Min Age | Prerequisites & Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle Without Gear (50cc) | 16 Years | Requires written consent signed by parent or legal guardian. |
| Motorcycle With Gear (MCWG) | 18 Years | Standard geared motorcycles and scooters of all engine capacities. |
| Light Motor Vehicle (LMV - Private Car) | 18 Years | Covers personal four-wheelers, sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs. |
| Commercial / Transport Vehicle (TR) | 20 Years | Must hold a valid LMV licence for at least 1 year + Form 1A Medical Certificate. |
Aadhaar Authentication vs Non-Aadhaar Flow
✨ Contactless Aadhaar Flow (Recommended)
- Zero RTO visit required for testing or document verification.
- Photo and demographic details auto-fetched from Aadhaar database.
- Take the online theory exam from home using your smartphone/laptop webcam.
- Instant PDF download of your Learner's Licence immediately after passing.
🏢 Non-Aadhaar Flow (Traditional)
- Requires booking a physical slot at your designated RTO office.
- Must present physical original documents for manual verification.
- Theory test is conducted on computer terminals inside the RTO premises.
- Best suited for applicants whose mobile numbers are not linked to Aadhaar.
Step-by-Step Online Application Process on Sarathi Portal
Open Sarathi Parivahan & Select State
Visit sarathi.parivahan.gov.in and select the state where you reside from the dropdown.
Click on "Apply for Learner Licence"
From the services dashboard, choose Apply for Learner Licence. Read the stage overview and click Continue. Select "Applicant does not hold any Driving/Learner Licence".
Authenticate via Aadhaar OTP
Select Submit via Aadhaar Authentication. Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and generate an OTP sent to your Aadhaar-registered mobile. Your name, date of birth, photo, and address will be securely imported into the application.
Select Vehicle Classes & Complete Medical Self-Declaration
Select the desired license classes (e.g., MCWG + LMV). Fill in educational qualifications and blood group. Click on Form 1 (Physical Fitness Self-Declaration), answer the standard medical safety questions truthfully, and submit.
Upload Signature & Pay Application Fee
Upload a clear digital image of your signature on white paper (under 20 KB in JPEG/PNG format). Proceed to the payment gateway and pay the government application and test fees via UPI, Net Banking, or Debit Card. Save your Payment Receipt and Application Number.
Watch Road Safety Tutorial & Take Online Exam
Watch the mandatory 10-minute road safety awareness video module on the portal. Once completed, an SMS with your LL Test Password will be delivered. Launch the online test, enable your camera for facial recognition, and complete the 15-20 multiple choice questions.
📄 Documents Checklist for Online LL
Age Proof (Any One)
- 10th Standard School Marksheet
- Birth Certificate
- Passport
- Aadhaar Card (with complete DOB)
Address Proof (Any One)
- Aadhaar Card
- Electricity Bill (Latest 2 months)
- Voter ID Card
- Registered Rent Agreement
Other Essentials
- Clear Signature scan (< 20 KB)
- Form 1 Self-Declaration
- Form 1A (if aged 40+ or commercial)
Online LL Test Format & Passing Score
The computer-based Learner's Licence test evaluates your basic understanding of traffic laws, road signs, and driving discipline:
- Question Count: 15 to 20 multiple-choice questions (depending on state regulations).
- Passing Score: At least 60% correct answers required (e.g., 9 out of 15, or 12 out of 20).
- Time Limit: 30 to 45 seconds allowed per question.
- Key Topics: Mandatory road signs (Stop, Give Way, No Entry), cautionary signs (Pedestrian Crossing, Narrow Road), right of way at intersections, lane discipline, overtaking rules, and hand signals.
💡 Pro Tip: Practice with the free Mock Test on the official Sarathi portal under "Learner Licence > Mock Test for LL" before attempting the real examination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if I fail the online Learner's Licence test?
If you do not pass on the first attempt, you can re-attempt the test after 24 hours. You will need to pay a nominal re-test fee (typically ₹50) on the Sarathi portal before taking the re-test.
Can I drive alone on public roads with a Learner's Licence?
No. Under Rule 3 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, an LL holder is not permitted to drive alone. You must be accompanied by a person holding a valid permanent driving licence sitting in a position to control or stop the vehicle. Furthermore, you must prominently display red 'L' plates on the front and rear of the vehicle.
When can I apply for a permanent Driving Licence after getting an LL?
You become eligible to apply for a permanent Driving Licence after completing 30 days from the date of your LL issuance. You must apply before the 6-month validity period of your LL expires.