Driving Licence in Maharashtra – Types, Eligibility, Documents Required, and Online & Offline Application

Maharashtra is a fast-paced state with some of the most advanced cities in it such as Mumbai and Pune. People in Maharashtra are always looking for ways to better their lives and become even more independent. One of the stepping stones to that independence is learning how to drive and getting a driving licence. The process of applying for and then acquiring a driving licence is relatively simple and can be done by anyone within the legal age limit. If you are ready to get behind the wheel of your favourite car, here is everything you need to know about a driving licence in Maharashtra.

Types of Driving Licences (DL) in Maharashtra (MH)

In Maharashtra, applicants have to choose the type of driving licence they want depending on the type of vehicle they wish to drive. Here are the types of driving licences to choose from in Maharashtra:

Transport Vehicle – Anyone looking to drive a commercial vehicle or a goods carriage must apply for this type of licence. A transport vehicle driving licence is further divided into:

• Light Motor Vehicle – this licence is for light motor vehicles such as auto-rickshaws, jeeps, and delivery vans.
• Medium Passenger Vehicle – this licence is for medium passenger vehicles such as minivans, tempos, and other vehicles used for ferrying passengers.
• Medium Goods Vehicle – this licence is for medium goods vehicles such as delivery vans/trucks, tempos, and other vehicles used for transporting goods.
• Heavy Passenger Vehicle – this licence is for heavy passenger vehicles such as large busses used for ferrying passengers.
• Heavy Goods Vehicle – this licence is for heavy goods vehicles such as large trucks and vans used for transporting goods.
• Road Roller – this is for road roller used in construction.

Non-Transport Vehicle – This type of licence is for those people looking to drive private or non-transport vehicles. A non-transport vehicle driving licence is issued based on the category of vehicle chosen by the applicant:

• Geared Motorcycle – this licence is for all motorcycles that have a geared transmission.
• Non-Geared Motorcycle – this licence is for all motorcycles that do not have a geared transmission. These vehicles include mopeds and scooters.
• Light Motor Vehicle – this licence is for light motor vehicles which include hatchbacks and sedans.

Eligibility Criteria for a Driving Licence (DL) in Maharashtra (MH)

Before anyone can acquire or apply for a driving licence in Maharashtra, they have to meet the eligibility requirements set by the state transport department. Here are the eligibility criteria for getting a driving licence in Maharashtra:

• Applicant must have a valid learners licence.
• Applicant must apply for a permanent driving licence 30 (thirty) days after or within 180 (one hundred and eighty) days of acquiring the learners licence.
• For a two-wheeler vehicle that doesn’t exceed 50cc, applicants must be above the age of 16-years.
• Applicant must be at least 20 (twenty) years old when applying for a commercial driving licence.

Documents Required for a Driving Licence in Maharashtra

There are a number of documents that have to be copied and attached when applying for a driving licence in Maharashtra. Here is a list of the documents needed:

Proof of Age (Any One)

• Birth Certificate
• Educational Certificate
• PAN Card
• Self-Attested Copy of Passport
• Certificate from Employer in case applicant is working for the state/central government

Proof of Address (Any One)

• Ration Card
• Voter’s ID
• LIC Policy Bond
• Valid Passport
• Certificate from Employer in case applicant is working for the state/central government

Other Required Documents

• Form 4 (Application Form)
• Form 5 (If applying for Commercial Driving Licence)
• Original Learner’s Licence
• 3 (Three) Passport-Size Photographs

How to Apply for a Driving Licence Offline in Maharashtra?

Maharashtra is one of the worst-hit states during the COVID-19 pandemic and because of that, it is safer to apply for a driving licence online. However, the offline procedure for applying for a driving licence is considered extremely popular. Here are the steps to follow when applying for a driving licence offline in Maharashtra:

Step 1: Visit the local RTO in your jurisdiction and request the application form. You could also download the form online.

Step 2: Carefully andcorrectly fill in the details of the form such as name, address, DOB, and blood type.

Step 3: Attach the documents listed in the form and submit them to the RTO.

Step 4: After submission, you will have to choose a date and time slot to appear for the driving licence test.

Step 5: Complete the payment for the driving licence application and test.

Step 6: If the test is cleared successfully, the driving licence will be issued to the registered address through speed post.

How to Apply for Driving Licence Online in Maharashtra?

With smartphones and computers becoming easily available, the online application process for a driving licence in Maharashtra is considered the best option. There are certain steps that need to be followed in order to correctly apply for a driving licence online in Maharashtra:

Step 1: Visit the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways page called Parivahan Sewa - https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan/.

Step 2: Hover/Click on the “Online Services” tab and then select “Driving Licence Related Services”.

Step 3: On the next page, select “Maharashtra” from the ‘Select State Name’ drop-down menu.

Step 4: Click on the “Apply for Driving Licence” button.

Step 5: Read the Instructions and click “Continue”.

Step 6: Enter the “Learner’s Licence Number” and “Date of Birth” in the spaces provided before clicking “OK”.

Step 7: Correctly fill in the form and scan and attach the required documents.

Step 8: After submitting the form and documents, choose a date to give the driving licence test.

Step 9: Complete the Application Fee payment and verify the same.

Step 10: Print the receipt and provide it on the day of the test.

Step 11: If the test is successfully cleared, the driving licence will be issued to the registered address through speed post.

Steps to Check Driving Licence Application Status Online

You can verify the status of your driving licence online through any of the following tw methods. One is to check the status of the driving license on the State Transport's official website. Otherwise, you can also check the status of your driving license on the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highway. The same can be done through the following steps-

Steps to check driving licence status online through the State Transport Department website:

Applicants can check the status of their driving licence through the official state transport department website by following the below steps:

Step 1: Visit the official Transport Department website of Maharashtra - https://transport.maharashtra.gov.in/1035/Home

Step 2: Look for the Driving Licence tab and click on it.

Step 3: Search for “Check Status” or “Application Status” and click on it.

Step 4: Enter the required information such as “Application Number”, “Date of Birth”, and enter the “Captcha”.

Step 5: Click on “Submit” and on the next page, the status information of the driving licence will be available.

Steps to check driving licence status online through the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways official website:

Checking the status of the driving in Maharashtra can also be done through the official Ministry of Road Transport and Highways website page called Parivahan. Here are the steps to follow for correctly applying for a driving licence online in Maharashtra:

Step 1: Visit https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan/

Step 2: Click on the “Online Services” tab.

Step 3: Click on the “Driving Licence Related Services” tab.

Step 4: Choose the State from the drop-down menu.

Step 5: Click on the “Application Status” button.

Step 6: Enter the “Application Number”, “Date of Birth”, and “Captcha”.

Step 7: Click on “Submit”.

Step 8: On the next page, you will find the status of your driving licence application.

How to Apply for a Duplicate Driving Licence in Maharashtra?

The driving licence in Maharashtra is valid for a total of 20 years, however, if the holder does misplace the licence, they can apply for a duplicate driving licence. A duplicate driving licence can also be applied for when the document is damaged, stolen, or lost. To apply for a duplicate driving licence, here is what you need to know.

Documents required when applying for a duplicate driving licence in Maharashtra:

When applying for a duplicate driving licence in Maharashtra, here are the documents required:

• Filled and signed application form LLD.

• Copies of an affidavit, an F.I.R, and a complaint.

• In case the driving licence is a commercial one, a Challan clearance report from the Traffic Police is required.
• Age Proof.
• Address Proof.

• Form No. 1.
• Copy of driving licence.
• In case the driving licence is stolen, the licence number is required.

Steps to Apply for a Duplicate Driving Licence in Maharashtra

Similar to applying for a driving licence, the application for a duplicate driving licence also can be done offline as well as online. The offline process for applying for a duplicate driving licence has to be done from the RTO where the vehicle is registered. The online process can be done through a smartphone or a computer with an internet connection. Both methods are relatively simple and require carefully following the steps.

Offline Procedure for Duplicate Driving Licence Application

• Step 1: Visit the RTO office or website and correctly fill in the LLD form.
• Step 2: Attach the requested documents
• Step 3: Attach two passport-sized photographs.
• Step 4: Enter the details of the misplaced/stolen learner’s licence.
• Step 5: Lodge an FIR if the learner’s license was stolen and attach a copy of it with the form.
• Step 6: Pay the requested application fees.

Online Procedure for Duplicate Driving Licence Application

• Step 1: Visit the Parivahan Sewa website https://parivahan.gov.in/.
• Step 2: Click on “Online Services”.
• Step 3: Choose “Driving Licence Related Services”.
• Step 4: Select the State from the drop-down.
• Step 5: From the new page, click on “Apply for Duplicate DL”.

• Step 6: Read the Instructions carefully and then click ‘Continue’.

• Step 7: Enter the “Driving Licence Number” and “Date of Birth” in the provided spaces.

• Step 8: Click on “Get DL Details” to check the Driving Licence information.

• Step 9: Click on “Proceed”.
• Step 10: Correctly fill the form and upload the documents requested.
• Step 10: Click “Next” after uploading all documents.
• Step 11: Choose the “Fee Payment” option and select “Next”.
• Step 12: Choose “Click here to continue e-Payment”.
• Step 13: Follow the instructions carefully and “Proceed for Payment”.
• Step 14: Click on “Continue” and then “Print Receipt” once the payment is completed.

How to Renew a Driving Licence in Maharashtra?

Renewing a driving licence in Maharashtra can be done when the original driving licence has expired. Driving licence holders must apply for a renewal within 30 days of the original licence expiring. The criteria for renewing a driving licence in Maharashtra are listed here:

• Driving licence holders have to visit the RTO to complete the renewal process.
• Those individuals who have been barred from the driving licence application process, cannot apply for driving licence renewal.
• If the driving licence has been expired for over 5 years, it cannot be renewed. In this case, the holder has to apply for a new driving licence.

Documents required for Renewal of Driving Licence in Maharashtra:

There are some very important documents required when it comes to renewing a driving licence in Maharashtra. Here are the documents needed:

• Form 9; correctly filled and signed by the applicant.
• Copies of the original driving licence that has expired.
• If the driver is over 40 years of age, correctly filled out Form 1A and a Medical Certificate.
• 2 Passport-Sized Photos.
• Copies of drivers Age and Address proof with self-attestation.
• Fees for the renewal application (Rs. 200) along with the receipt.

Offline Renewal Procedure

Here are the steps for renewing a driving licence offline in Maharashtra:

Step 1: Visit the RTO nearest to your registered address.

Step 2: Request for the renewal application form or Form 9.

Step 3: Correctly fill out the form.

Step 4: Attach copies of the expired driving licence.

Step 5: Attach Form 1A and a Medical Certificate if the holder is over 40 years of age.

Step 6: Attach 2 passport-size photographs with the Application form.

Step 7: Attach copies of the holder’s Age Proof and Address Proof.

Step 8: Pay the driving licence renewal fees of Rs. 200 at the RTO.

Step 9: Once the forms and documents are verified, your renewed driving licence will be issued.

Online Renewal Procedure

Here are the steps for renewing a driving licence online in Maharashtra:

Step 1: Visit the RTO website - https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan/

Step 2: Hover the cursor over the “Online Services” tab.

Step 3: Click on “Driving Licence Related Services”.

Step 4: On the next page, choose “Maharashtra” from the drop-down menu.

Step 5: Click on the “Apply for DL Renewal” button.

Step 6: Read the Instructions carefully and then click ‘Continue’.

Step 7: Enter the “Driving Licence Number” and “Date of Birth” in the provided spaces.

Step 8: Click on “Get DL Details” to check the Driving Licence information.

Step 9: Click on “Proceed”.

Step 10: Correctly fill the form and upload the documents requested.

Step 10: Click “Next” after uploading all documents.

Step 11: Choose the “Fee Payment” option and select “Next”.

Step 12: Choose “Click here to continue e-Payment”.

Step 13: Follow the instructions carefully and “Proceed for Payment”.

Step 14: Click on “Continue” and then “Print Receipt” once the payment is completed.

How to Apply for an International Driving Licence in Maharashtra?

Anyone who wants to apply for an International Driving Licence in Maharashtra has to follow the procedure correctly. The steps are simple and can be done online as well as offline. The best way to apply for an International Driving Licence in Maharashtra is to visit the Parivahan Sewa website and follow the instructions there. After filling the forms, applicants have to attach and submit the correct documentation as well. Below is everything you need to know about applying for an International Driving Licence in Maharashtra.

Documents Required for Applying for an International Driving Licence in Maharashtra:

Here are the documents required when applying for an International Driving Licence in Maharashtra:

• Proof of Nationality.
• Attested copies of Passport, Driving Licence, and VISA.
• Attested copies of Residence Proof.
• 5 Full-Size Passport photos.
• Form 1A.

Driving test Procedure in Maharashtra:

The driving test is the most important part of the driving licence application process. If you do not successfully clear the test, the driving licence will not be issued. In Maharashtra, a driving licence test is conducted at the RTO of the applicant’s jurisdiction and with a Motor Vehicles Inspector present. The driving licence test is mandatory for all applicants – online and offline. Applicants will need to visit the RTO on the selected date and they should have their own vehicle. The vehicle class must match the one that is listed on the application form. There are two types of driving licence tests done at the RTO – test for 2-wheeler/3-wheeler and test for 4-wheeler.

Driving Licence Test for 2-Wheelers/3-Wheelers

When it comes to the driving licence test for 2/3 wheeler vehicles, the RTO and the Motor Vehicles Inspector check to see whether the applicant is capable of riding the vehicle within the specified area. Usually, the applicant is required to ride in a “Figure 8” pattern without lowering their feet and without touching any of the side rails. If this stage is cleared successfully, the inspector will approve the “Road Test” where the applicant must ride a certain distance with the inspector and follow all the rules and regulations. If this stage is also cleared, the inspector approves the driving licence.

Driving Licence Test for 4-Wheelers

The 4-wheeler driving licence test is quite similar to that of the 2/3-wheeler test. The applicants in the 4-wheeler test have to drive in the “H” pattern and avoid the columns and obstacles in the way. If the applicant clears this stage, the inspector approves the road test and the applicant will have to drive a certain distance while following the rules and regulations of the road. If the applicant clears this stage as well, the inspector approves the driving licence.

Tips for Clearing the Driving Test

Here are some handy tips that will surely get you through your driving licence test with ease:

• Keep practicing before the actual test so that you are confident enough.
• Get to the RTO earlier than the selected time. This will keep you calm before giving the test.
• Once the test is completed, don’t turn off the engine until the vehicle has completely stopped.
• Shift gears smoothly.
• When riding/driving, make sure to use the side and rear-view mirrors to check for traffic.
• When making a turn, always use the indicator light as well as a hand signal.
• Do not take longer than 15 minutes to complete the test. Practice this and time yourself.

FAQs

Q: What vehicles fall under the category “non-transport vehicles”?

A: A ‘non-transport vehicle’ is basically a vehicle that is not for hire or for private use.

Q: Can the fitness certificate be cancelled by the RTO?

A: Issued Certificate can be cancelled by Assistant Regional Transport Officer and above rank if the motor is not fulfilling the conditions as per Motor Vehicle Act. On cancelling the certificate due to unfit conditions, the authority has to give in writing to the owner / in charge of the vehicle using form C.F.C and also inform registering authority.

Q: How many days of training are required for a non-transport vehicle?

A: As per Rule 31 (2) and 31 (4) of Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, the training period for non-transport vehicles should not be less than 21 days and driving hours shall not be less than 10 hours.

Q: What documents should I submit as age proof?

A: One needs to submit any of the following documents –
1. Educational certificate
2. Birth certificate
3. Attested copy of the passport
4. Certificate issued from the employer if you are working for state/ central government or a local body.

Q: How can I check my driving license status in Maharashtra?

A: Below are the steps to check driving licence status online:
1. Visit parivahan.gov.in.
2. Under the “Online Services” tab, you will find an option called “Know your vehicle details”. 
3. You will be asked to enter your vehicle registration number.
4. You will now see your RC status.

Q: Do I need to get any training before applying for a commercial driving license?

A: If the applicant wishes for a driving license to drive a commercial heavy motor vehicle, he or she will have to undergo training at Government Motor School and obtain a ‘driver refreshing training certificate’ before applying for a licence.

Q: Is smart card DL available in Maharashtra?

A: Yes, the Maharashtra Transport Department (RTO MH) has started providing smart card DL that is based on SARATHI software.

Q: Is submitting a medical certificate mandatory even for an individual who is aged 21 years?

A: Yes, a medical certificate would be required to be produced, in case of commercial vehicle licenses.

Q: What are a few tips for clearing the driving test?

A: Below are some tips for clearing the driving test:
1. Practice a lot before applying for the test
2. Understand your car properly.
3. Prepare to drive well in test conditions
4. Pay attention to driving.
5. Don’t be rash
6. Don’t be nervous
7. Remember all the traffic rules