Everything You Need to Know About Driving Licence Categories in India
A driving licence is an important document that allows a person to drive a vehicle legally in India. Without a valid driving licence, it is illegal to drive any vehicle on the roads. The Government of India issues different types of driving licences depending on the type of vehicle and the purpose for which it is being used.
If you are applying for a Driving Licence or planning to learn to drive soon, it is very important to know about the various driving licence categories available in India. This will help you understand which licence you need based on the type of vehicle you want to drive.
In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about the different driving licence categories in India, their uses, eligibility, and other important details.
What is a Driving Licence?
A driving licence is an official document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) of the Indian government that permits a person to operate one or more types of vehicles on public roads. It acts as proof that the person has the necessary skills and knowledge to drive safely and responsibly.
In India, there are different types of driving licences for different vehicle categories. These categories are divided based on the type of vehicle (like car, bike, truck) and whether it is for personal or commercial use.
Types of Driving Licences in India
The driving licences in India are mainly divided into two broad categories:
- Non-Transport (Private) Licence
- Transport (Commercial) Licence
1. Non-Transport (Private) Driving Licence
A Non-Transport or Private Driving Licence is issued for personal vehicles, which are not used for commercial purposes. This licence is suitable for people who want to drive their cars, scooters, or bikes.
Categories under Non-Transport Driving Licence:
- MC 50CC (Motorcycle 50CC)
- For motorcycles with engine capacity not exceeding 50cc.
- Minimum age: 16 years.
- For motorcycles with engine capacity not exceeding 50cc.
- MC EX50CC (Motorcycle more than 50CC)
- For motorcycles with an engine capacity above 50cc.
- Includes both geared and gearless two-wheelers.
- Minimum age: 18 years.
- For motorcycles with an engine capacity above 50cc.
- MCWOG (Motorcycle Without Gear)
- For scooters and mopeds without gear, like Activa, Scooty.
- Minimum age: 18 years.
- For scooters and mopeds without gear, like Activa, Scooty.
- MCWG (Motorcycle With Gear)
- For motorcycles with gears, like Pulsar, Bullet, Splendor.
- Minimum age: 18 years.
- For motorcycles with gears, like Pulsar, Bullet, Splendor.
- LMV-NT (Light Motor Vehicle – Non-Transport)
- For private cars, jeeps, vans, and other light motor vehicles used for personal use.
- Minimum age: 18 years.
- For private cars, jeeps, vans, and other light motor vehicles used for personal use.
2. Transport (Commercial) Driving Licence
A Transport or Commercial Driving Licence is issued for vehicles that are used for transporting goods or passengers for business or commercial purposes. This licence is required if you drive a taxi, truck, bus, or any other vehicle used to earn money.
Categories under Transport Driving Licence:
- LMV-TR (Light Motor Vehicle – Transport)
- For commercial light vehicles like taxis, delivery vans.
- Minimum age: 20 years (in some states 18 years).
- For commercial light vehicles like taxis, delivery vans.
- MGV (Medium Goods Vehicle)
- For medium-sized goods-carrying vehicles like tempo, mini-truck.
- For medium-sized goods-carrying vehicles like tempo, mini-truck.
- MPV (Medium Passenger Vehicle)
- For medium passenger vehicles like mini-buses, vans used for commercial passenger transport.
- For medium passenger vehicles like mini-buses, vans used for commercial passenger transport.
- HGV/HTV (Heavy Goods Vehicle / Heavy Transport Vehicle)
- For large commercial vehicles like trucks, lorries that carry heavy goods.
- For large commercial vehicles like trucks, lorries that carry heavy goods.
- HPV (Heavy Passenger Vehicle)
- For large passenger vehicles like buses.
- For large passenger vehicles like buses.
- Trailer
- For vehicles attached to heavy trailers.
Special Licence Categories in India
Some special types of driving licences are issued for specific needs:
- E-Rickshaw Licence: For driving battery-operated e-rickshaws.
- Invalid Carriage: For specially designed vehicles used by disabled persons.
- Road Roller: For operating road rollers.
Minimum Age Limit for Driving Licence in India
The minimum age limit depends on the type of vehicle:
- 16 years for motorcycles up to 50cc with parental consent.
- 18 years for two-wheelers with gear, cars, and other light motor vehicles.
- 20 years for commercial vehicles like taxis, trucks, buses (may differ in some states).
Eligibility for Applying for a Driving Licence
To apply for a driving licence in India, you must:
- Be the minimum eligible age as per the vehicle category.
- Hold a valid learner’s licence for at least 30 days and not more than 180 days.
- Be familiar with traffic rules and regulations.
- Submit required documents like age proof, address proof, passport-size photos, learner’s licence, and application forms.
How to Apply for a Driving Licence in India
Here are the basic steps for applying:
- Visit your nearest RTO office or apply online through the Parivahan Sewa portal.
- Fill in the application form.
- Upload or submit required documents.
- Book a slot for the driving test.
- Appear for the driving test on the given date.
- If you pass, your driving licence will be issued.
Importance of Knowing Driving Licence Categories
Understanding the correct driving licence category is very important because:
- It helps you apply for the correct licence for your vehicle.
- Driving a vehicle without a proper category licence is illegal.
- It can lead to heavy fines or imprisonment.
- It ensures your safety and the safety of others on the road.
- It helps avoid issues with traffic police or insurance claims.
Suggested read- What is a Driving Licence
Conclusion
Driving licence categories in India are divided based on vehicle types and the purpose of driving. Every driver needs to hold the correct type of licence, whether for personal or commercial use. Every responsible citizen should understand the value of a driving licence and encourage others to drive safely, legally, and responsibly.
Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced driver, understanding the different types of driving licences is a smart and responsible step.