Driving Licence Chennai - Driving Licence Online & Offline Apply in Chennai

Team CARS24
Team CARS24

Updated on: 8th March, 2024 IST

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Driving Licence Chennai – Driving Licence Online & Offline Apply in Chennai

Chennai, the culture-rich capital of Tamil Nadu, is a bustling metropolis steeped in history and known for its vibrant traditions, delectable cuisine, and stunning beaches. As you contemplate exploring this diverse and dynamic city, consider that your key to unlocking its wonders is not just your curiosity, but also a driving licence. 

Chennai's thriving urban landscape has resulted in a significant increase in driving licence applications in recent times. Recent data indicates a notable 14% rise in the issuance of driving licences in the city, highlighting the growing interest in experiencing Chennai's cultural richness and the need for responsible driving practices in a bustling urban environment.

Read on as we explore the ways in which you can apply for and secure your driving licence in Chennai hassle-free!

What is the Eligibility Criteria to Apply for a Driving Licence in Chennai?

To get your driving licence in Chennai, you need to meet these conditions:

  • If you want to ride a two-wheeler with an engine smaller than 50 cc, you must be at least 16 years old.
  • If you want to ride a two-wheeler with an engine larger than 50 cc or a four-wheeler, you must be at least 18 years old.
  • You can't drive a commercial vehicle if you're younger than 20, and you must know the road rules.
  • You must hold a learner's permit for a minimum of 30 days and a maximum of 180 days before applying for a permanent licence.

Types of Driving Licences in Chennai

The Transport Department in Tamil Nadu issues Driving Licences (DLs) based on different types of requirements and vehicles. Before you get a driving licence, you should get a learner's licence. Here are the kinds of licences you can apply for:

Type of Driving LicenceType of Vehicle
Two-wheeler (gearless)Scooters, mopeds, gearless bikes, etc.
Two-wheeler (geared)Geared motorcycles, scooters, etc.
Private four-wheeler (geared)Hatchbacks, SUVs, MUVs, Coupés, Sedans, etc.
Commercial vehiclesTransport buses, trucks, etc.
Other vehiclesTransport trucks that transfer hazardous/industrial goods. 

What are the Documents Required to Apply for a Driving Licence in Chennai?

The following documents are required in order to obtain a driving licence (DL):

Proof of Age:

  • The certification of an education board recognised by the government
  • Passport

Proof of Residence:

  • Voter’s ID
  • Passport
  • LIC policy bond
  • Ration card
  • Employee Certificate
  • Employee certificate from a state/central government

Other Documents:

  • Photocopy of learner's permit
  • Form 4
  • Form 5 for a commercial driver's licence
  • Three passport-sized photos
  • Form 1A: Medical certificate, which has to be filled by a physician (necessary for applicants older than the age of 40)
  • Form 1: Physical fitness declaration by the applicant
  • Three passport-size photographs

Also read – How To Transfer Ownership Of Vehicle in Chennai

How to Apply and Prepare for a Learner's Licence in Chennai?

To apply for a Learner’s Licence in Chennai, you need to do the following:

  1. Visit the official Sarathi Parivahan website.
  2. Select your state.
    official Sarathi Parivahan website
    driving licence chennai
  3. Once you’ve selected your state, click on “Apply for Learner Licence.” 

driving licence chennai

  1. Click on “Continue” and enter the required details. 
  2. Once you have completed the application, you need to appear for an online test to get a learner’s licence. Here’s what this test consists of:
  • 10 Multiple Choice Questions
  • Duration: 10 Minutes
  • Topics Covered: Road Signs, Traffic Rules and Regulations
  • Qualifying criteria: Minimum 6 marks out of 10

Note: In case you fail the qualifying test, you are allowed to reapply after 7 days. After 30 days of receiving the learner’s licence, you are eligible to apply for a permanent licence. 

How to Get a Driving Licence in Chennai?

Chennai offers three types of driving licences:

  • Licence for 2-wheelers without gears and engines smaller than 50cc
  • Driving licence for a Commercial Vehicle (CV)
  • Driving licence for a Light Motor Vehicle (LMV)

If you want to apply for a driving licence in Chennai, you can choose from the following options: 

  1. Online application through the official Sarathi Parivahan website.
  2. Offline application at the nearest RTO in your city.

Read on to understand these processes in detail.

Also Read –Regional Transport Office – RTO State Code of India

How to Apply for a Driving Licence in Chennai Online?

Applying for a driving licence is far from a daunting task now. Once you’ve received your learner’s licence, you can apply for a driving licence after 30 days or within 6 months. 

Here’s how you can apply for a driving licence online in Chennai through the Parivahan Portal:

  1. Visit the official Sarathi Parivahan website.
    official Sarathi Parivahan website
  2. Select your state.

driving licence chennai

  1. Once you’ve selected your state, click on “Apply for Driving Licence.” 

driving licence chennai

  1. Click on “Continue” and enter the required details.

Click on “Continue” and enter the required details

how to apply for driving licence

  1. Fill out the application form and upload your documents on the portal.

how to apply for driving licence

  1. After uploading all the documents, you need to select a slot for your driving test to be held at the RTO. 

how to apply for driving licence

  1. Select LL Slot Booking.

Learning licence slot booking

  1. Select a date and time and book your appointment to take the driving test.
     

Once the form is filled out and your driving test is booked, you’re left with the final step, fee payment. To pay the driving licence fees online, you need to follow these steps: 

  1. Head over to the main menu of the Sarathi Parivahan portal
  2. Select your state
  3. Click on “Fee Payments” as shown below
  4. Proceed to enter your details and click on “Pay Now"

Select a date and time and book your appointment to take the driving testSelect a date and time and book your appointment to take the driving testSelect a date and time and book your appointment to take the driving testSelect a date and time and book your appointment to take the driving test

  1. Once the payment is made at your end, head back to the main menu
  2. Click on “Check Payment Status” to get your payment details and receipt

how to apply for driving licence
how to apply for driving licence

  1. After entering your Application Number, Date of Birth, and the Captcha code, your payment receipt is generated as shown below.
  2. Remember to print/save this receipt. 

Remember to print save this receipt

How to Apply for a Driving Licence in Chennai Offline?

If you wish to skip the online process and apply for your driving licence offline, you will need to do the following: 

  1. Visit the RTO office in your area and collect Form 4 or print it from the Sarathi Parivahan website.
  2. Fill out and submit the application form.
  3. Attach all the required documents.
  4. Book a slot for your driving test.
  5. If you pass the test, your licence will be sent to you via speed post.

To view a list of RTOs in Tamil Nadu, click here.

Also Read – RTO full Form – RTO State Code of India

How is a Driving Licence Test Conducted in Chennai?

Your driving test will be conducted by an Inspector at the RTO. It requires the applicant to drive on the RTO's designated driving track. Applicants are tested on general driving skills, how well they follow the rules, and their knowledge of the rules.

In Chennai, the driving licence test adheres to the Motor Vehicle Act of 1988. Applicants should bring their vehicle for the test. Alternatively, they can use a motor driving school's vehicle. Here's how the test is conducted:

  • Two-Wheeler & Three-Wheeler Test Candidates: You must navigate within a designated area, forming figure-8 patterns while avoiding stalling. Upon success, you may proceed to ride on public roads.
  • Four-Wheeler Test: Driving a four-wheeler requires precise control without touching boundary markers during the test. Afterward, candidates must demonstrate their skills on public roads.

In case of failure, you can take the test again after 7 days, after paying a nominal fee.

How to Obtain an International Driving Licence in Chennai?

In Chennai, acquiring an international driving permit (IDP) necessitates an application at the RTO along with the necessary documents. While no test is mandatory, applicants must possess a permanent DL.

If you intend to secure an international driving permit, you should gather the following documents from your current place of residence:

  • A copy of your Visa
  • A copy of your Passport
  • A copy of your permanent driving licence
  • Proof of residence
  • Medical form 1-A
  • Evidence of your nationality
  • 5 passport-size photographs

What are the Fees for Applying for a Driving Licence in Chennai?

Here’s a table detailing the different fees that you need to pay:

Type of Licence-related IssueFee (₹)
Learner’s licence₹200
Learner’s licence renewal₹200
International driver’s licence₹1,000
Driving Licence Fees₹200
Driver’s licence test₹50
Driver’s licence renewal₹250
Renewal and issue of licence for driving schools₹10,000
Issue of renewed driver’s licence₹200
Appeal fee against RTO₹500
Issue of duplicate licence for driving schools₹5,000

Also Read: Car Registration Charges in India - RTO

The Bottom Line

Obtaining a driving licence in Chennai is not just a legal necessity; it's your key to unlocking the treasures of this vibrant cultural capital. As we've explored in this guide, recent statistics underscore the growing interest in experiencing Chennai's rich heritage and the need for responsible driving practices in a bustling urban environment. 

As you navigate the streets of Chennai, always prioritise safety, adhere to traffic rules, and contribute to the harmonious flow of this dynamic city. With this comprehensive guide, you're well-prepared to navigate the process and explore Chennai's myriad offerings. So, gear up and let the roads of Chennai lead you to a world of cultural delights and urban adventures.  

FAQs

Q. When to check your driving licence status in Chennai?

It takes 30 days to get your driving licence after the date of the driving test. You can start checking your driving licence status two weeks after clearing your driving test in Chennai.

Q. Is there any fee to check the driving licence status?

There is no fee to access the website or check your driver's licence status.

Q. Can I drive on public roads with a learner's driving licence?

Yes, you can drive on public roads with a learner's driving licence. However, you must be accompanied by someone carrying a permanent/valid driving licence.

Q. For how long is a learner's driving licence valid?

A learner's driving licence is valid for 6 months or 180 days. However, the licence holder must apply for a permanent driving licence after 30 days and before 180 days from the date of issuance of the learner's licence.

Q. Can I renew a learner's driving licence?

Yes, a learner's driving licence can be renewed if it expires.

Q. Can I reappear for my driving test if I fail on the first attempt?

Yes, you can reappear for your driving test after 7 days of your first attempt.

Q. What is the legal age for driving in India?

The legal age for driving a geared vehicle is 18 years, while the legal age for driving non-geared vehicles is 16 years.

Q. If I have an existing driving licence, how do I check its status?

You can check the status of your existing driving licence here.

Q. How do I download my driving licence on DigiLocker?

Here’s how you can download your driving licence on DigiLocker:

Step 1: Visit the https://www.digilocker.gov.in/ or app and sign up.

Step 2: Select “Get more Issued Documents” from the “Issued Documents” menu. Click on “Pull documents”.

Step 3: Select “Ministry of Road Transport and Highways” under “Central Government”.

Step 4: Click on “Driving Licence” under “Document Type”. Enter your details: name, date of birth, and driving licence number. Click on “Get Document.” This will download your DL on your phone.

Q. What is the validity of a driving licence in Chennai?

A private driving licence is valid for 20 years from the date of issue or till the holder attains 40 years of age, whichever comes earlier. After the age of 40, a driving licence is issued for 10 years and then 5 years subsequently.

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