Know all about how to apply for driving license online in Maharashtra

A permanent driving license is an important document which is to be held by anyone looking to legally own and operate any vehicle of your liking. Unable to produce a permanent driver’s license during an unfortunate traffic stop can lead to severe penalties, which can include hefty fines and even jail time. If you’re applying for a permanent driving license for the first time, or have just turned 18, this blog is for you. We understand that you might have some questions or be confused about some of the required documents. Don’t worry, as we have gathered all the information you need on how to apply for driving license online in Maharashtra.

What are the types of driving licenses in Maharashtra?

There are two main types of licenses that are available:

1. Learning license: The Learning license is meant to be applied for by people who have never held a driving license before, young adults who have just turned 18 years old, and people whose driving license has expired and could not renew it before the grace period. Learning license owners are not allowed to operate vehicles on their own, and should always drive under the supervision of a permanent license holder. This license should also be held for at least a month, regardless of the individual’s level of experience.
2. Driving License: The Driving license, also called the Permanent license, has a longer validity than a learning license. You can only apply for the driving license after holding the learning license for at least a month. Do note that it is important to apply for the permanent license test within six months of the issue date of the learning license you hold. Failure to do the same will result in a retest of the learning license. The permanent or driving license is valid for either 18 or 21 years from the date of issue. 

You can apply for both the types of licenses; learning and driving (permanent) licenses for different types of vehicles. These are divided into the following categories:

1. Motorcycle Without Gear (MCWOG) – Holding this license allows the holder to operate two wheelers such as scooters, mopeds, ie. two wheelers without gears. 
2. Motorcycle With Gear (MCWG) – This license permits the holders to drive motorcycles with gears, as well as all vehicles that come under the motorcycle with gear license. 
3. Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) – LMV license holders can operate all four wheelers that are used for personal transport, such as jeeps, cars, SUVs. LMV – TR is a variation that is only meant to be used by cab drivers.  
4. Light Goods Vehicle (LGV) – Holding the light goods vehicle license allows the holder to operate vehicles used for commercial applications weighing 3500 kg or less. This includes vehicles such as the Isuzu D Max, Tata Ace, and Tata Yodha
5. Medium Goods Vehicle (MGV) – This category only includes vehicles that can carry loads ranging from 3.5 tonnes to 12 tonnes.
6. Medium Passenger Vehicles (MPV) – Medium Passenger Vehicles consist of private or public sector vehicles and buses for educational institutes. It does not include LMVs, MCWOGs, and MCWGs.
7. Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) – This category includes vehicles that can carry loads exceeding those of a Medium Goods Vehicle.
8. Heavy Passenger Vehicle (HPV) – Heavy Passenger Vehicles include tourist buses and commercial buses. 

There are three additional documents you can apply for, these could be crucial under certain circumstances: 

1. Invalid Carriage License: This license is necessary for individuals with disabilities who require specialized vehicles and need to make specific modifications to their existing vehicles for proper operation.
2. Transport Vehicle License: To operate Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) or Medium Passenger Vehicles (MPVs) for commercial transport purposes, a transport vehicle license is required.
3. International Driving Permit (IDP): Indian citizens who wish to drive abroad must apply for an International Driving Permit. This permit should be used in conjunction with a valid Indian driving license and cannot serve as a standalone document.

How to apply for a driving license online in Maharashtra?

In the past, before the internet was so easily accessible, applying for any license was a completely physical process. With the advent of technology however, you can now apply for any license online. Simply visit the government’s Parivahan website, select the state Maharashtra, and navigate to the application portal. Follow the below steps: 

1. Verify Your Eligibility: The main requirement for eligibility is that you must be at least 18 years old in order to submit a license application. You must be at least 20 years old to drive a commercial vehicle.
2. For New Drivers – Before submitting an application for a permanent driving license, new drivers must hold a learning license for a minimum of one month.
3. Fill-up the Online Application: Click the “Apply Online” tab and choose the option for a new driving license after you’ve reached the driving license portal.
4. Complete the Application: Give all required information and personal documentation, including proof of identity, proof of address, passport-sized photos, and other necessary documents.
5. Book Your Time: After completing the form and enclosing the required documents, pick a day, time, and day that work for you from the available slots. 
6. Pay the Fee: After completing each of the preceding steps, proceed with paying the applicable fees. 
7. Upload Documents: As mentioned earlier, upload all the required documents. 
8. Take the Test: Don’t forget to arrive at the testing location on the day you have registered. 
9. Pass the Test: Make sure you pass the physical test. You will have to go through every step again if you don’t succeed.
10. Receive Your License: After passing the test, your license will be sent to you via speed post.

What is the eligibility to apply for a driving license online in Maharashtra?

The statutory requirement for applying for any driving license is that you must be at least 18 years old. In the case that you wish to operate transport vehicles, the minimum age requirement is 20 years. Apart from age, another crucial criterion is your vision. You should have a visual acuity of at least 20/40 in one eye and 20/60 in the other, with or without corrective lenses.

What are the documents required to apply for a driving license online in Maharashtra?

Here are the documents that you will require:

1. Proof of Age: You can use your birth certificate, school leaving certificate, passport, PAN card, Aadhar card, or Voter ID card. 
2. Proof of Address: Documents such as your passport, Aadhar card, Voter ID card can serve as proof of address. Ensure you provide two different documents for proof of age and address. You can also use utility bills (electricity, water, gas, etc.) in your name, ration card, or a rental agreement. 
3. Government-Issued Forms:
   1. Form 1: Required if you are under 50 years old Form 1 A: Required if you are over 50 years old 
   2. Form 2: Also known as the Learner’s License application 
   3. Form 3: Learner’s License form 
4. Learner’s License 
5. Passport Size Photos 
6. Training Certificate: This is needed for vehicles that require special training and proof of the training.

What is the fee structure for driving license in Maharashtra

Fees for issuing Learner’s License (for each category)	INR 150
Fees for Learner’s Licence Test	INR 50
Fees for Driving Licence Test (For each category)	INR 300
Driving License in Form 7 (ie. smart card)	INR 200
Issue of Driving License	INR 200
Service Charge	INR 60
Learner’s License Fail fee	INR 50
After expiry of Learner’s License
Learner’s License test fee	INR 50
Fees for issuing Learner’s License (for each category)	INR 150
Service Charge	INR 30
Driving License Fail fee (for each category)	INR 300

What is the process to get a permanent driving license online in Maharashtra

Follow the above steps mentioned till now. Make sure to have all the mentioned documents as stated before. Follow the below steps if all the necessary documents are with you: 

1. Go to the official Parivahan website
2. Select the state as Maharashtra
3. Select the “Apply for license” option
4. Fill the application form
5. Select the test slot according to your convenience
6. Pay the corresponding fee
7. Appear for the practical test
8. Pass the test
9. Receive your license

FAQs About How To Apply For A Driver’s License In Maharashtra

Here are some frequently asked questions about obtaining a driver’s license in Maharashtra: