Learner Licence vs Driving Licence
A driving licence is every road-goer’s ultimate goal, while a learner licence marks the beginning of that journey. From age limits to legal rights and renewal timelines, understanding the differences between these two is crucial for anyone planning to drive legally in India.
What exactly is a Learner Licence?
A Learner Licence (LL) is a temporary permit issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) to individuals who wish to begin learning how to drive. Candidates must be at least 16 years old for mopeds and 18 for gear vehicles. The licence is valid for six months and requires the holder to pass a basic written or computer-based test on traffic rules and road signs. Drivers must always be accompanied by a fully licensed person and display an 'L' plate on the front and rear.
Difference Between Learner Licence and Driving Licence
A Learner Licence permits practice under supervision, while a Driving Licence allows independent driving. The LL is an initial provisional document, obtained before applying for a permanent licence. In contrast, the Driving Licence (DL) is granted after passing a practical driving test and signifies full authorisation to drive independently.
Who is eligible and what are the age criteria?
Learner Licence:
- Mopeds & gearless bikes: 16+
- Gear bikes, cars, and other light motor vehicles: 18+
- Applicants must pass a written or MCQ test on traffic regulations.
Driving Licence:
After holding the LL for at least 30 days, and not more than 6 months, you may apply and must pass the practical driving test.
Validity and Renewal Differences
- Learner Licence: Valid for six months only. If not converted to a permanent DL within that period, it lapses and needs renewal. According to multiple Reddit users, even to re-attempt a driving test after LL expiry, renewal is mandatory.
- Driving Licence: Smart card DLs issued post-2019 are valid up to 20 years (or shorter depending on age group: 10 years for 40–65, 5 years after 65).
Licensing Test Process
- Learner Licence Test: A computer-based multiple-choice questionnaire testing basic road rules and signs. A minimum correct score is required to pass.
- Driving Licence Test: Comprises a practical driving test conducted by RTO examiners. After clearing, the permanent DL is issued, usually via post.
Restrictions for Learner Licence holders
Learner Licence holders must:
- Be accompanied by a qualified driver of the same vehicle class.
- Always display red ‘L’ plates on vehicle’s front and rear ends.
- Refrain from driving independently. Breaking rules can lead to fines or referral for DL renewal.
Why having a Driving Licence matters
A permanent DL proves legal compliance, ensures insurance coverage, and acts as a valid ID across India. Driving without one can incur heavy fines, insurance refusal, impoundment, or points on a licence.
Documents Required for Applications
- Learner Licence (Form 1): Age proof, address proof, passport photos.
- Driving Licence (Form 4): Valid LL, medical certificate (for some categories), photos, fee receipt.
How to apply: Online vs offline
- Online: Through the Parivahan/Sarathi portal fill forms, book slot, upload documents, pay fees, and take tests.
- Offline: Visit your local RTO, submit forms, pay fees, schedule tests, and attend seminars/exams directly.
The Typical Timeline
- Apply and pass LL test and receive LL within days.
- Wait at least 30 days before DL application.
- Book and pass driving test (often requires 3 attempts max within LL validity).
- Receive DL by post within weeks.
FAQs on Learner Licence vs Driving Licence
- Can I legally drive alone on Indian roads with only a Learner Licence?
No, in India, you cannot legally drive alone with a Learner Licence; you must be accompanied by a person holding a valid Driving Licence.
- What is the validity period of a Learner Licence in India?
A Learner Licence in India is valid for a period of 6 months from the date of issuance.
- When am I eligible to apply for a permanent Driving Licence after receiving my Learner Licence?
You are eligible to apply for a permanent Driving Licence after a minimum of 30 days and within 6 months from the date of issuance of your Learner Licence.
- How long is a permanent Driving Licence valid in India?
A permanent Driving Licence in India is generally valid for 20 years or until the licence holder turns 40, whichever comes first; validity then varies with age.
- What kind of tests are required to obtain a Learner Licence and a Driving Licence in India?
To obtain a Learner Licence, you must pass a written or computer-based test on traffic rules, while for a Driving Licence, you need to pass a practical driving test.
- Can I renew my Learner Licence if it expires before I apply for a Driving Licence?
Yes, you can renew your Learner Licence if it expires before you apply for or pass the Driving Licence test.
- Is an Indian Driving Licence valid for driving in other countries?
An Indian Driving Licence is valid in a few countries for a limited time, but in most cases, you will need an International Driving Permit to drive legally abroad.
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