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How to obtain a commercial driving licence in India

Driving taxis, three-wheelers, e-rickshaws, or even delivering food on two wheels can be a great way to make a living. The good news is, getting a commercial license for these vehicles is now much easier! Thanks to a recent change in rules, you no longer need to wait a year after getting your regular driver's license.

Let's get you started!

First things first: Learn to drive!

If you're new to driving, most driving schools can help you get a learner's permit and teach you the basics. Once you're comfortable, you'll take a driving test to get your regular driver's license. This usually takes about 30 days after you get your learner's permit.

Stepping up to commercial vehicles

Even if you're a great driver, there's more to learn before handling a commercial vehicle. Some driving schools, like Maruti Suzuki Driving School, offer special training programs for heavy vehicles. For this, you'll need a separate learner's permit that's valid for 6 months.

There's a learner's permit for every commercial vehicle:

  • HGMV: This is for Heavy Goods Motor Vehicles, like big trucks.
  • LMV-TR: This covers Light Motor Vehicles used for commercial purposes, like delivery vans.
  • HPMV: This is for Heavy Passenger Motor Vehicles, like buses.
  • LMV-NT: This is for Light Motor Vehicles used for non-transport purposes, like private cabs.
  • MGV: This is for Medium Goods Vehicles, like medium-sized trucks.

Who can get a commercial license?

The requirements are similar to a regular license, but with a few key differences:

  • You'll need to be at least 18 years old (in some states, 22).
  • You'll need to have passed 8th grade.
  • You'll need to pass a written test specific to commercial vehicles.
  • You'll need training from a government-approved driving school.

Ready to apply? Here's what you'll need:

  • Proof of address (passport, utility bill, etc.)
  • Identity proof (passport, ID card, etc.)
  • Application forms (Forms 2, 1A, and 5)
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Application fee

You can apply online or in person:

  • Online: Visit the Sarathi website and follow the instructions.
  • In person: Visit your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO) and submit your documents.

Once you apply, you'll get a confirmation message with a reference number.

Now you're on your way to a great career!