Check Driving License Status & Apply Online 2026
In 2026, obtaining a Permanent Driving License (DL) in India has transitioned into a highly streamlined, contactless digital experience. With the full integration of AI-driven testing tracks and Aadhaar-based authentication, the Sarathi Parivahan gov in portal has become the backbone of road safety and driver licensing in India.
Eligibility Criteria for Permanent DL in 2026
Before you begin your online application, ensure you meet the legal requirements set by the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR). In 2026, the criteria have been tightened to emphasize road safety awareness on the Parivahan Sarathi platform.
- Valid Learner’s License: You must hold a valid Learner’s License (LL) for at least 30 days but not more than 180 days.
- Age Requirements:
- 16 years for Gearless Motorcycles up to 50cc (with parental consent).
- 18 years for Light Motor Vehicles (LMV) and Motorcycles with gear.
- 20 years for Transport/Commercial Vehicles.
- Educational Qualification: While removed from some categories, Transport/Commercial licenses still require a minimum 8th-grade pass certificate.
- Physical Fitness: Applicants over 40 must provide a digitally signed Form 1A medical certificate from an authorized practitioner.
Required Documents for 2026 Application
The 2026 digital ecosystem prioritizes "Document-less" processing. If your Aadhaar is linked with your mobile number, most data is pulled automatically by the Parivahan Driving Licence system. However, keep these ready for upload:
| Category | Document Type | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Identity Proof | Aadhaar Card / Passport / Voter ID | Aadhaar preferred for e-KYC. |
| Address Proof | Ration Card / Utility Bills / LIC Policy | Must match current residence. |
| Age Proof | Birth Certificate / 10th Marksheet | Verified against Digilocker. |
| Medical Proof | Form 1 (Self-decl) / Form 1A (Medical) | Form 1A mandatory for Age 40+. |
| Application | Form 4 and Application Fee | Generated online via Sarathi. |
Step-by-Step Online Application Process (2026)
Follow this definitive guide to navigate the Sarathi Parivahan portal (parivahan.gov.in) with precision:
Step 1: Portal Access and State Selection
Visit the official Sarathi Parivahan Sewa website. Under 'Online Services', select 'Driving License Related Services'. You will be redirected to the Sarathi portal. Select your residential State from the dropdown menu.
Step 2: Choose 'Apply for Driving License'
From the main dashboard, select the 'Apply Driving Licence Online' option. Read the instructions carefully and click 'Continue'.
Step 3: Enter Learner License Details
Since you are applying for a permanent license, you must enter your valid Learner's License number and Date of Birth. The system will automatically fetch your previous details and LL history.
Step 4: Fill Form 4 and Upload Documents
Verify the pre-filled information. Choose the class of vehicle (COV) you want to apply for (e.g., LMV, MCWG). Upload the digital copies of your documents (Aadhaar, LL copy) and your signature. In 2026, the photo is often taken via live webcam or pulled from Aadhaar e-KYC.
Step 5: Fee Payment
Pay the standard application fee. As of 2026, the fee for a single class (like LMV) is approximately ₹1,000, including the smart card fee. Use secure gateways like UPI, Net Banking, or Credit/Debit cards.
Step 6: DL Slot Booking (Appointment)
After successful payment, click on 'Slot Booking' to schedule your driving test on HTTPS Sarathi Parivahan Gov in. Select a convenient RTO and choose an available date and time. Download the appointment slip for the RTO visit.
Expert Slot Booking Tips for 2026
Due to high demand, getting a slot can be challenging. Use these expert tips:
- The Midnight Refresh: RTO portals typically refresh their slot availability at 12:00 AM (Midnight). Log in 5 minutes early to grab the best dates.
- Mid-Week Advantage: Wednesdays and Thursdays are generally less crowded at the RTO than Mondays or Fridays.
- System Compatibility: Use a stable broadband connection and a Desktop/Laptop (Chrome browser) for faster data entry compared to a mobile device.
What to Expect at the RTO: The AI Automated Test
In 2026, the manual "inspector-based" tests have been replaced by Automated Driving Test Tracks (ADTT) in most Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities.
- Biometric Verification: Upon arrival, your biometrics (iris and fingerprint) will be matched with your Aadhaar data.
- Sensor-Based Tracking: The driving track is equipped with high-sensitive sensors. If your vehicle touches a boundary or if you fail to use indicators, the AI system records it instantly.
- The 8-Track and H-Track: For 2-wheelers, you must complete an '8' shape without touching your feet to the ground. For 4-wheelers, the 'H' track for reversing and the 'Parallel Parking' test are mandatory.
- Instant Results: Once the test is over, the digital score is generated immediately. You no longer have to wait days for results.
FAQ: 10 Common Questions Answered
1. How long does it take for the Smart Card DL to arrive?
After passing the test, the DL is usually dispatched within 7-14 working days via Speed Post. You can also download the digital DL via Driving Licence Parivahan services immediately.
2. Can I apply for a DL without a Learner's License?
No. A valid LL is a mandatory prerequisite under Sarathi Parivahan Gov in Learning Licence rules for at least 30 days.
3. What happens if I fail the driving test?
If you fail, you can re-apply for a slot after 7 days. You must pay the re-test fee.
4. Is the driving test mandatory for everyone?
Yes, for a fresh Permanent DL, the physical driving test is mandatory under the surveillance of RTO sensors.
5. Can I use my instructor's vehicle for the test?
Yes, you can use your own vehicle, your driving school's vehicle, or in some states, RTO-provided vehicles for a fee.
6. How can I track my DL application status?
Go to the Parivahan portal, select 'License Related Services', and click on 'Application Status' via the Parivahan Sewa Driving Licence status tracker.
7. My LL is about to expire, can I still apply?
Yes, as long as your LL is within the 180-day window. If it expires, you must renew the LL first.
8. What documents should I carry during the test?
Carry your Appointment Slip, Learner License copy, and the Original ID Proof used during the application.
9. Can an NRI apply for an Indian DL?
Yes, provided they have a valid Indian address proof and meet the residency and eligibility criteria.
10. What is a 'Soft Copy' DL?
It is the digital version of your DL available on the mParivahan app. In 2026, it is legally equivalent to the physical smart card for all traffic verifications.