Light Motor Vehicle Driving License
In India, it is mandatory to have a driving license to use a vehicle. Depending on the type of vehicle you wish to ride or drive, a different license is provided. In case you wish to drive jeeps, commercial vehicles, or cars, you must obtain a Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) license. The process to apply for the license is simple and can be completed online.
What is a Light Motor Vehicle Driving License?
In case you wish to drive small and light vehicles that will be used for carrying goods and passengers, you must apply for a LMV driving license. There are two types of LMVs, non-transport and transport.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria that must be met in order to apply for an LMV driving license are mentioned below:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must hold a learner’s license for at least 30 days.
- You must know the traffic rules and regulations.
Different Types of Light Motor Vehicles
The different LMVs are mentioned below:
- Taxis
- E-Cart
- Jeeps
- Delivery Vans
- SUVs
- Mini-Trucks
- Pick-Up Trucks
- Sedans
- Auto-Rickshaws
- Hatchbacks
Importance of an LMV Driving License
The importance of holding an LMV license is mentioned below:
- Shows you are a skilled driver.
- You can drive different LMVs.
- Can be used as proof of identity.
Types of LMV Driving License
The different types of LMV driving licenses are mentioned below:
- For Non-Transport Vehicles: In case you do not use a vehicle for commercial purposes, you must apply for this type of a license. You must hold a learner’s license before you apply for a driver’s license. Under this type of license, the vehicle can be used only for personal purposes.
- For Transport Vehicles: Private and transport LMVs can be driven if you obtain this type of license. The fee that must be paid to obtain this type of license will vary from state to state.
Process to Apply for an LMV Driving License
The procedure that must be followed to apply for a LMV driving license is mentioned below:
- Visit https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan/.
- Under 'Online Services', you will find 'Driving License Related Services', click on it.
- Choose the state in the next page.
- Select ‘Apply for Driving License’ next.
- Click on ‘Continue’.
- Enter the learner’s license number, date of birth, and captcha.
- Click on ‘OK’.
- Fill up the application form.
- Next, the necessary documents must be uploaded.
- Upload your signature and photo.
- Choose the time and date to take the test.
- Pay the fee next.
- Visit the RTO on the date you have selected to take the driving test.
Once you pass the test, the LMV driving license will be sent to your address via post.
Penalties for LMV & IMV Violations
- If you're caught driving without a valid LMV driving license, you may be fined up to Rs. 5,000.
- In certain cases, imprisonment may also be imposed for driving without a valid LMV license.
- It is important to hold a valid LMV license to legally drive a car in India.
- Heavy penalties apply for driving without the appropriate license type.
- Ensure you apply for the correct category of license (LMV or IMV) based on the vehicle you intend to drive.
FAQs on Light Motor Vehicle Driving License
- What is the minimum age required to apply for an LMV licence?
You must be at least eighteen years old to apply for a Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) licence for non‑transport purposes, and generally twenty years old for applying for a transport LMV licence in most states.
- Do I need to hold a learner’s licence before applying for an LMV driving licence?
Yes, you are required to hold a valid learner’s licence for a minimum of thirty days and not more than 180 days before you can apply for a permanent LMV driving licence, as stated in the Central Motor Vehicles Rules and on Parivahan Seva.
- What categories of vehicles can I drive with an LMV licence?
An LMV licence covers both non‑transport vehicles such as cars, jeeps, sedans and hatchbacks, as well as transport vehicles including delivery vans, mini trucks, autorickshaws, taxis and e‑carts, depending on whether you have a non‑transport (LMV‑NT) or transport (LMV‑TR) endorsement.
- How long is an LMV driving licence valid in India?
A non‑transport LMV driving licence issued to someone under 30 years of age is valid until they reach 40 years; after that, validity reduces to 10 years up to age 50, and then five years beyond age 55, as per the Motor Vehicles Act.
- Is third‑party insurance mandatory for an LMV?
Yes, third‑party insurance or LMV insurance is legally required for all light motor vehicles in India, and driving without insurance may result in penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act.
- Can a holder of an LMV licence drive a motorcycle?
No, a Light Motor Vehicle licence authorises the driving of LMVs only and does not permit riding a motorcycle; you must hold a separate Motorcycle with Gear (MCWG) licence to ride bikes or motorcycles.
- What should I do if my LMV licence is lost or damaged?
If your LMV driving licence is misplaced or damaged, you must apply for a duplicate licence at the nearest RTO or through the Sarathi Parivahan portal by submitting the required documents, a police report, and paying the applicable fee.
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