Commercial Driving Licence in India: Complete Guide on How to Apply for a Commercial Driving Licence in India, Explore Eligibility, Documents, & Application Process.
How to get a commercial driving licence in India in 2025?
In India, a commercial driving licence (CDL) is essential for individuals driving vehicles used for commercial purposes, such as trucks, buses, taxis, and other transport vehicles. The process of obtaining a CDL involves specific eligibility criteria, application procedures, and training requirements. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process seamlessly.
What is a commercial driving licence?
A commercial driving licence allows individuals to operate commercial vehicles legally in India. It is mandatory for drivers involved in transportation services, goods delivery, or passenger vehicles under government regulations.
Eligibility criteria for commercial driving licence
Before applying for a CDL, ensure you meet the following criteria:
● Age limit
○ Minimum age: 18 years (for light commercial vehicles like taxis and tempos).
○ Minimum age: 20 years (for heavy commercial vehicles like buses and trucks).
● Educational qualification
○ No specific educational requirements, but basic literacy is recommended.
● Existing licence requirement
○ Must hold a valid light motor vehicle (LMV) driving licence for at least one year.
● Medical certificate
○ A certified medical fitness certificate (Form 1A) from a registered medical practitioner is required.
How to apply for a commercial driving licence?
Follow these steps to apply for a commercial driving licence in India:
1. Gather required documents
○ Aadhaar card or other government ID proof.
○ Passport-size photographs.
○ Existing driving licence.
○ Medical certificate (Form 1A).
○ Proof of address (utility bills, rental agreement, etc.).
○ Proof of age (birth certificate, 10th-grade mark sheet, etc.).
2. Apply online/offline
○ Visit the official Parivahan Sewa website or your local regional transport office (RTO).
○ Fill out Form 2 (application for driving licence).
3. Pay the application fee
○ The fee varies based on the vehicle type and state. Generally, it ranges between ₹500 to ₹1,000.
4. Book a driving test slot
○ Schedule a driving test through the online portal or at the RTO.
5. Attend training
○ Complete a 30-day certified training course at a government-approved motor driving school.
6. Take the driving test
○ Successfully pass the test, which includes practical driving skills and knowledge of traffic rules.
7. Receive your licence
○ Once you pass the test, your commercial driving licence will be issued.
Key features of a commercial driving licence
Feature | Description |
Validity period | 3 years for most categories (1 year for transport vehicles carrying hazardous goods). |
Renewal process | Submit a renewal application before expiry. |
Usage restrictions | Valid only for commercial activities. Cannot be used for personal vehicles. |
Endorsements | Additional endorsements are required for specific vehicle types (e.g., hazardous materials). |
Types of vehicles covered under CDL
Vehicle Type | Examples |
Light commercial vehicles (LCV) | Auto-rickshaws, taxis, tempos. |
Medium commercial vehicles (MCV) | Mini trucks, buses. |
Heavy commercial vehicles (HCV) | Trucks, buses, tankers. |
Specialised vehicles | Forklifts, cranes, vehicles carrying hazardous goods, and other equipment. |
Benefits of a commercial driving licence
● Legal compliance: Avoid fines and legal complications while driving commercial vehicles.
● Career opportunities: Work as a professional driver for logistics companies, public transport, or ride-hailing services.
● Enhanced skills: Receive certified training to improve driving skills and safety.
How to get a duplicate commercial driving licence?
To obtain a duplicate commercial driving licence (CDL) in India, start by filing a First Information Report (FIR) at your nearest police station if the licence is lost or stolen.
Gather the necessary documents, including the FIR copy, your original licence (if damaged), a government-issued ID proof, address proof, passport-size photographs, and a completed Form LLD (application for duplicate licence).
Submit the application at the Regional Transport Office (RTO) where the original licence was issued, along with the applicable fee, which typically ranges from ₹200 to ₹500.
The RTO will verify your details, and once the verification is complete, the duplicate licence will be issued. It usually takes 7–15 days, depending on the RTO’s processing time. The duplicate licence will retain the same validity as the original.
If your licence details are stored digitally, the process is quicker. For added convenience, you can initiate the application online through the Parivahan Sewa Portal and visit the RTO for final verification.
Conclusion
Getting a duplicate commercial driving licence in India is a straightforward process if you follow the required steps and provide the necessary documentation. Always ensure your CDL is up to date and stored securely to avoid inconvenience. For a hassle-free experience, consider applying through the Parivahan Sewa Portal for initial steps and visit your RTO for verification.
Frequently asked question (FAQs)
1. Can I drive a commercial vehicle with a private licence?
No, a private driving licence is not valid for operating commercial vehicles.
2. What happens if I fail the driving test?
You can reapply for the test after seven days.
3. Is there any exemption from training for experienced drivers?
No, certified training is mandatory for all CDL applicants.
4. How long does it take to get a CDL?
The entire process, including training and testing, typically takes 30-45 days.
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