Apply for Driving Licence in Himachal Pradesh : Online & Offline

Nestled amidst the breathtaking Himalayan ranges, Himachal Pradesh is not just a state; it's a testament to nature's unparalleled beauty. With an estimated population of over 7 million residents and over 100,000 registered vehicles, Himachal Pradesh is a state where tranquillity meets adventure. 

Whether you're a resident, an avid traveller, or a newcomer eager to explore the mountainous terrain, obtaining a valid driving licence is your key to navigating the winding roads and discovering the picturesque landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. 

In this detailed guide, we'll lead you through the process of acquiring a driving licence in this mountainous haven, offering valuable insights, statistics, and local wisdom to ensure your journey is both safe and legally compliant. So, let's embark on the path to legal driving in Himachal Pradesh, where every twist and turn offers a new adventure.

What are the Eligibility Criteria to Apply for a Driving Licence in Himachal Pradesh?

To get your driving licence in Himachal Pradesh, 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 Himachal Pradesh

The Transport Department in Himachal Pradesh 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:

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

The following documents are required 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

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

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

1. Visit the official Sarathi Parivahan website.
   
2. Select your state.
   
3. Once you’ve selected your state, click on “Apply for a Learner Licence.”
   
4. Click on “Continue” and enter the required details.
   
5. 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 Himachal Pradesh?

Himachal Pradesh 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 Himachal Pradesh, 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.

How to Apply for a Driving Licence in Himachal Pradesh 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 Himachal Pradesh through the Parivahan Portal:

1. Visit the official Sarathi Parivahan website.
   
2. Select your state.
   
3. Once you’ve selected your state, click on “Apply for Driving Licence.”
   
4. Click on “Continue” and enter the required details.
   
5. Fill out the application form and upload your documents on the portal.
6. After uploading all the documents, you need to select a slot for your driving test to be held at the RTO. 
7. Select LL Slot Booking.
   
8. 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. Proceed to enter your details and click on “Pay Now"
2. Click on “Fee Payments” as shown below
3. Select your state
4. Head over to the main menu of the Sarathi Parivahan portal
5. Once the payment is made at your end, head back to the main menu
6. Click on “Check Payment Status” to get your payment details and receipt
7. After entering your Application Number, Date of Birth, and the Captcha code, your payment receipt is generated as shown below.
8. Remember to print/save this receipt. 

How to Apply for a Driving Licence in Himachal Pradesh 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 Himachal Pradesh, click here.

How is a Driving Licence Test Conducted in Himachal Pradesh?

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 Himachal Pradesh, 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. Afterwards, 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 Himachal Pradesh?

In Himachal Pradesh, 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 Himachal Pradesh?

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

The Bottom Line

As you set out to secure your driving licence in Himachal Pradesh, remember that you're not merely complying with a legal requirement; you're equipping yourself to explore the beauty and unique experiences this state has to offer. Himachal Pradesh's majestic mountains, serene valleys, and charming towns are waiting for you to discover, and your driving licence is your passport to traverse these natural wonders with confidence.

Throughout this guide, we've been your trusted companion, providing essential information, statistics, and step-by-step instructions to ensure a seamless process. As you venture towards becoming a licenced driver in Himachal Pradesh, keep in mind that responsible driving and adherence to road safety rules are not only for your safety but also for honouring the laws of this beautiful State.

FAQs

Q. What is the cost of a driving licence in Lucknow?

The cost of obtaining a driving licence in Lucknow varies depending on the purpose. For the driving test, the fee is ₹50, while the issuance of a Learner’s Licence costs ₹150. If you need an International Driving Licence, the fee is ₹1,000, and for adding a vehicle class to your licence, it's ₹500. Renewing your driving licence is priced at ₹200, with an additional ₹1,000 fee for each year or part thereof if done after the grace period. Issuing a duplicate licence costs ₹200, and there's a ₹100 road safety cess for various vehicle categories. The Form 7/Smart Card is available at ₹200.

Q. Is a medical certificate required for a Driving Licence in Lucknow?

Yes, if the applicant is older than the age of 40, they need to submit Form 1A (the Medical certificate), which has to be filled by a physician.

Q. What is the validity of a Driving Licence in Lucknow?

A 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.

Q. What is the validity of a Learner's Licence in Lucknow?

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. How many RTO offices are there in Lucknow?

Lucknow has a total of 96 RTO offices.

Q. Is the online Learner's Licence test available in Lucknow?

Yes, you can apply for an online Learner's Licence test in Lucknow which includes 10 multiple-choice questions on road signs, traffic rules, and regulations.

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

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 Lucknow.

Q. Is blood group necessary for a driving licence?

No, it is not mandatory to have your blood group on your Driving Licence. However, it is recommended that you add it as it can be helpful in medical emergencies.

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. Do we get the Smart Driving Licence in Himachal Pradesh?

Yes, you can get a Smart Driving Licence in Himachal Pradesh once you fill out Form 7 and pay the application charge of ₹200. 

Q. Who is the issuing authority of the Driving Licence in Himachal Pradesh?

The Himachal Pradesh RTO is the issuing authority of Driving Licence in the State.

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. 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 and 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