All You Need to Know About an LMV Driving Licence

Learn about the process of obtaining an LMV driving licence in India, from eligibility criteria to the renewal process and traffic rules.
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3 mins
14th February 2024

What is a Light Motor Vehicle (LMV)?

Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) are vehicles primarily designed for carrying passengers or goods and are characterised by their smaller size and lower weight compared to heavy-duty vehicles.

In India, LMVs include cars, jeeps, vans, and small trucks used for personal or commercial purposes. These vehicles typically have a gross vehicle weight (GVW) not exceeding 3,500 kilograms. LMVs are popular due to their versatility, fuel efficiency, and ease of manoeuvrability in urban and suburban areas.

Introduction to LMV Driving Licence

Obtaining an LMV (Light Motor Vehicle) driving licence is essential for operating cars, jeeps, and small commercial vehicles in India. This comprehensive guide covers the application process, required documents, fees, and traffic rules.

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Types of LMV driving licences in India

In India, the licensing system for operating Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) encompasses various categories tailored to different vehicle types and usage scenarios.

Understanding these license types is crucial for aspiring drivers to obtain the appropriate authorisation for driving specific vehicles legally.

  • LMV Non-Transport Licence: This type of licence permits individuals to drive private vehicles, including cars, jeeps, vans, and other personal-use vehicles, for non-commercial purposes.
  • LMV Transport Licence: An LMV Transport licence or LMV TR licence authorises drivers to operate commercial LMVs, such as taxis, auto-rickshaws, and light commercial vehicles used for the transportation of goods or passengers.

Eligibility criteria for LMV licence

Before applying for an LMV licence, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including age requirements, possession of a valid learner's licence, and completion of a recognised driving training course.

  • Applicant must be at least 18 years old.
  • The applicant must have a valid learner's licence for LMV.
  • The candidate should have undergone a training course from a recognised driving school.

How to apply for an LMV driving licence

The application process for an LMV licence involves either visiting the nearest RTO or applying online through the state's transport department website. Applicants need to fill out the application form, submit required documents, schedule a driving test, and pass the examination.

Online process

  • Visit the Parivahan website to apply for your driving licence online: https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/sarathiservice/stateSelection.do
  • Select your state of residence.
  • Choose the option ‘Apply for Driving Licence’.
  • Fill out the applicant details.
  • Upload the required documents.
  • Upload a photo and signature if required (applicable for only some states).
  • Book your driving licence test slot (applicable for only some states).
  • Pay the required fee.
  • Carry the original documents and the receipt of the fee payment when you visit the RTO for your driving test.
  • Pass the driving test to obtain the LMV licence.

Offline process

  • Visit the nearest RTO (Regional Transport Office).
  • Fill out the application form and submit it along with the required documents.
  • Your application is verified and processed.
  • Once verified, schedule a slot for the driving test.
  • Pass the driving test to obtain the LMV licence.

Documents required to apply for an LMV driving licence

To apply for an LMV licence, applicants must submit documents such as proof of age and identity, proof of address, passport-sized photographs, a valid learner's licence, and a certificate from a recognised driving school if applicable. Here’s the list for your reference:

  • Duly filled application form
  • Valid learner's licence
  • Recent passport-sized photographs
  • Proof of age and identity (Aadhar card, passport, etc.)
  • Proof of address (Passport, Voter ID card, utility bills, etc.)
  • Driving school certificate (if applicable)

Also read: Car Insurance Policy

Fees for LMV driving licence

The fee structure for LMV licences varies depending on the type of licence, state regulations, and specific services. Common fees include those for a learner's licence, driving licence, and licence renewal. Here are the standard fees and charges for an LMV driving licence:

Service

Fees (In Rs.)

Learner's licence per vehicle category

151

Test for learner's licence per vehicle category

50

Permanent licence

716

Permanent licence renewal

416

Permanent licence renewal after grace period

1,000

Duplicate driving licence

216

International driving licence

1,000

Addition of new vehicle class to driving licence

1,016


LMV driving licence: Exam and test details

The driving test for an LMV licence includes:

  • A practical examination of driving skills.
  • A theoretical test on traffic rules and road signs.

Applicants must successfully pass both components to obtain the licence. You will be tested on general driving skills, how well you follow the rules, and your knowledge of the rules.

Read more: Parivahan Sewa Portal - Registration, Login & DL details

LMV driving licence renewal process

LMV licences can be renewed online or offline before the expiry date by submitting the necessary documents and renewal fees. Candidates need to apply for a renewal within 30 days of the driving licence expiring.

  • Submit the application forms and additional documents to the RTO from where the expired driving licence was issued.
  • Pay the renewal fee.
  • Receive an acknowledgement and a receipt for the application fee.
  • The renewed driving licence will be delivered to you via post to the address provided on the application form.

Important traffic rules

LMV licence holders must adhere to important traffic rules such as wearing seatbelts, following speed limits, abstaining from drinking and driving, and yielding to pedestrians. Violation of these rules can result in penalties.

  • Always wear a seatbelt while driving.
  • Follow speed limits and traffic signals.
  • Do not drink and drive.
  • Yield to pedestrians and follow lane discipline.

Read more: Check e-Challan Online - Get Traffic Challan Details

Common traffic violations and penalties

Penalties for traffic violations with an LMV licence include fines, licence suspension, and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the violation. Common violations include overspeeding, driving under the influence, and not wearing seatbelts. Here are some of the key traffic violations and their subsequent penalties.

Violations

Penalty

Driving/riding without a licence

Rs. 5,000

Driving/riding under the influence of an intoxicating substance

First offence: Rs. 10,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment

Repeat offence: Rs. 15,000 and/or 2 years imprisonment

Overspeeding

LMV: Rs. 1,000

Driving without a seat belt

Rs. 1,000

Driving/riding without a valid insurance policy

First offence: Rs. 2,000

Subsequent offence: Rs. 4,000

Dangerous driving/riding and jumping red light

Fine: Rs. 1,000- Rs. 5,000

and/or

6-months to 1-year imprisonment

and/or

Licence seizure

Driving/riding while using mobile or handheld devices

Rs. 5,000

Speeding/racing

First offence: Rs. 5,000 and/or 3-months imprisonment

Repeat offence: Rs. 10,000 and/or 1-year imprisonment

Not giving way to emergency vehicles

Rs. 10,000

Riding without a helmet (rider and pillion rider)

Rs. 1,000

Driving/riding despite disqualification

Rs. 10,000, and/or community service

Unauthorised use of vehicles without a licence

Rs. 1,000- Rs. 5,000

Driving/riding without RC

First offence: Rs. 5,000

Subsequent offence: Rs. 10,000


Motor Insurance requirements for LMV

In India, having motor insurance is mandatory for all vehicles, including Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs).

Bajaj Finance Insurance Mall offers motor insurance plans from leading insurance partners. It allows you to compare quotes and choose the policy that best suits your needs and budget. With user-friendly interface and transparent information, find the right insurance coverage with just a few clicks.

Frequently asked questions

How to apply for an LMV licence?

To apply for an LMV licence, you can either visit the nearest RTO or apply online through the state's transport department website. You need to fill out the application form, submit the required documents, schedule a driving test, and pass the examination.

What documents are needed for an LMV licence?

Documents required to apply for an LMV driving licence include:

  • Duly filled application form
  • Valid learner's licence
  • Recent passport-sized photographs
  • Proof of age and identity (Aadhar card, passport, etc.)
  • Proof of address (Passport, Voter ID card, utility bills, etc.)
  • Driving school certificate (if applicable)
What are the fees for an LMV licence?

The fees for LMV learner's licence, driving licence, and licence renewal vary based on the state regulations. Check with the local RTO for the exact fees.

Is it better to apply online or offline for LMV licences?

Both online and offline application options are available. Online application offers convenience, while offline application allows for face-to-face interaction and guidance.

What is the driving test like while applying for an LMV licence?

The LMV driving test typically comprises two parts: a theoretical test to assess knowledge of traffic rules, road signs, and safety regulations, and a practical test to evaluate driving skills on the road. The practical test involves tasks such as parallel parking, driving through obstacles, and demonstrating control over the vehicle.

How to renew an LMV licence?

To renew an LMV licence, visit the nearest RTO office and submit the required documents, including the original licence, proof of address, and passport-sized photographs. Pay the renewal fees and undergo any necessary tests or medical examinations. Upon successful completion, the RTO will renew your LMV licence.

What are the traffic rules for LMV licence holders?

LMV licence holders must adhere to all traffic rules and regulations specified under the Motor Vehicles Act. This includes following speed limits, obeying traffic signals, wearing seat belts/helmets, avoiding drunk driving, and maintaining proper vehicle documentation.

What are the common queries related to LMV licence?

Common queries related to LMV driving licence include the process of obtaining an LMV licence, required documents, fees, and traffic rules.

What are the penalties for violating traffic rules with an LMV licence?

Penalties for violating traffic rules with an LMV licence vary depending on the nature and severity of the offence. They may include fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment in cases of serious violations such as drunken driving or causing accidents resulting in injury or death.

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