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!