Heavy Driving Licence in India: A Complete guide on how to apply for a Heavy Driving Licence in India, explore eligibility, documents, & the application process.
Heavy driving licence in India: A comprehensive guide
A heavy driving licence (HDL) is mandatory for operating heavy motor vehicles (HMVs) in India. This includes vehicles like trucks, buses, tankers, and other commercial transport vehicles. Acquiring this licence ensures that drivers meet the legal and safety standards required for handling such vehicles.
Who needs a heavy driving licence?
Anyone intending to drive vehicles categorized under HMVs such as:
● Trucks
● Lorries
● Buses (private or public)
● Tankers
● Trailers
● Heavy construction machinery
Types of heavy driving licences in India
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) categorizes heavy vehicle licences based on vehicle type and usage:
Licence type | Vehicle category |
Heavy goods vehicle (HGV) | Trucks, lorries, and goods carriers |
Heavy passenger vehicle (HPV) | Buses, coaches, and transport buses |
Road roller licence | Road construction machinery |
Medium goods vehicle (MGV) | Vehicles slightly lighter than HGVs |
Medium passenger vehicle (MPV) | Vans or mini-buses |
Eligibility criteria for heavy driving licence in India
To apply for an HDL, you must meet the following criteria:
● Age: Minimum 18 years (some states require 20 years).
● Experience: Must hold a valid light motor vehicle (LMV) licence for at least 1 year.
● Medical fitness: A certificate from a registered medical practitioner confirming physical fitness.
● Education: Basic literacy to understand road signs and rules.
Steps to obtain a heavy driving licence in India
Learn driving for HMV
○ Enroll in a government-recognized driving school for heavy motor vehicles.
○ Complete the training program, which usually lasts 3–4 weeks.
Obtain a learner's licence
○ Visit the regional transport office (RTO) with the necessary documents.
○ Pass the written and oral tests for a learner’s licence.
Apply for the heavy driving licence
○ Complete Form 2 (application for driving licence) available at the RTO or online.
○ Attach the required documents (see the section below).
Appear for the driving test
○ Schedule a test date at the RTO.
○ Demonstrate your driving skills and road knowledge under supervision.
Licence issuance
○ Upon passing the test, your HDL is issued within 2–3 weeks.
Documents required for heavy driving licence
Document | Details |
Application form (Form 2) | Available at RTO or online |
Age proof | Aadhaar card, birth certificate |
Address proof | Passport, voter ID, utility bills |
LMV driving licence copy | Proof of one-year LMV driving experience |
Passport-sized photographs | 4–6 recent photos |
Medical certificate (Form 1A) | Signed by a registered doctor |
Fees for heavy driving licence in India
The application fees for an HDL may vary across states. Below is an approximate fee structure:
Fee component | Approximate cost (INR) |
Learner’s licence fee | ₹150 |
Driving test fee | ₹300 |
Driving licence fee | ₹400 |
Training school fee | ₹10,000–₹15,000 (varies by school) |
Benefits of a heavy driving licence
● Legality: Complies with motor vehicle laws.
● Employment opportunities: Opens up jobs in logistics, transportation, and public services.
● Skill development: Demonstrates expertise in handling large vehicles.
Renewal and validity of heavy driving licence
● Validity:
○ Generally valid for 3 years (commercial vehicles).
○ For drivers above 50 years, renewal is required every 5 years.
● Renewal process:
○ Submit Form 9 (renewal application) along with the original HDL.
○ Provide a fresh medical fitness certificate.
Conclusion
A heavy driving licence is not just a legal requirement but also an essential qualification for professionals in the logistics and transportation sector. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and required documents, you can seamlessly apply for an HDL and unlock numerous career opportunities in India.
For more detailed updates, visit the official Parivahan Sewa website.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for an HDL online?
Yes, you can apply via the Parivahan Sewa portal. However, the driving test must be taken at the respective RTO.
2. Is a heavy driving licence necessary for private heavy vehicles?
Yes, all heavy vehicles, including privately owned ones, require an HDL for operation.
3. What is the penalty for driving without an HDL?
Fines range from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000, along with vehicle seizure.
Get Quick Quote