Light Motor Vehicle Licence: Complete guide on how to apply for a light motor vehicle (LMV) licence, explore eligibility, documents, & application process.
What is a light motor vehicle licence & how to apply in 2025?
Ready to hit the road and embrace the freedom of driving? A light motor vehicle (LMV) licence is your gateway to legally driving cars, vans, and more. In 2025, applying for one has never been simpler, with streamlined processes and online options.
Keep reading to discover how you can get behind the wheel with ease!
What is a light motor vehicle licence?
A light motor vehicle licence is a driving licence category issued to individuals who wish to operate vehicles classified as “light motor vehicles.” these vehicles generally include:
Type | Description |
LMV - non-transport | for private vehicles, including cars, jeeps, and suvs. |
LMV - transport | for commercial vehicles like delivery vans, light goods carriers, and taxis. |
Having this licence ensures compliance with the law, encourages road safety, and provides access to a range of personal and professional opportunities.
Features of LMV licence
● Digital application: The entire process can now be completed online via the Parivahan Sewa Portal or respective state transport department websites.
● Unified licence code: A nationwide system ensures uniformity and ease of verification.
● Enhanced tests: Driving tests are now more comprehensive, including road safety knowledge and practical driving skills.
Different types of LMVs
Type | Purpose | Examples | Licence type required |
LMV - non-transport | Personal use | Cars, Jeeps, SUVs | LMV - non-transport licence |
LMV - transport | Commercial use | Pick-up trucks, taxis, delivery vans | LMV - transport licence |
Motorised three-wheelers | Passenger/goods transport | Auto-rickshaws, goods carriers | LMV - transport licence |
Electric LMVs | Eco-friendly transport | Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra Treo | LMV - non-transport or transport |
Light passenger vehicles | Public transport | Tata Winger, Force Traveller | LMV - transport licence |
Agricultural LMVs | Rural/agriculture | Mahindra Bolero, Tata Ace | LMV - non-transport licence |
Recreational LMVs | Leisure/adventure | Mahindra Thar, Force Gurkha | LMV - non-transport licence |
Eligibility criteria for LMV licence
To apply for an LMV licence, you must meet the following criteria:
Eligibility factor | LMV - non-transport | LMV - transport |
Minimum age | 18 years | 20 years (varies by state) |
Learner's licence | mandatory | mandatory |
Educational qualification | basic knowledge of traffic rules | basic knowledge of traffic rules |
Medical certificate | not required | mandatory (form 1a signed by a doctor) |
Purpose | personal use (cars, jeeps, suvs) | commercial use (taxis, goods carriers) |
Documents required for LMV licence application
Document type | Examples |
Age proof | birth certificate, aadhaar card, school certificate. |
Address proof | passport, voter id, utility bills (electricity/water bill). |
Learner’s licence | valid learner’s licence issued by the RTO. |
Photographs | recent passport-sized photos (4-6 copies). |
Medical certificate | form 1a (for LMV-transport). |
Make sure to carry both original documents and photocopies during submission.
How to apply for a light motor vehicle licence in 2025?
The application process for an LMV licence has been streamlined, allowing applicants to choose between online and offline methods.
Step 1: Obtain a learner’s licence
The first step towards getting an LMV licence is to apply for a learner’s licence.
Procedure:
1. Visit your state transport department website or the parivahan sewa portal.
2. Fill out the learner’s licence application form.
3. Upload scanned copies of required documents.
4. Pay the learner’s licence fee (₹200–₹500).
5. Book a test slot and appear for an online or offline test on traffic rules.
Upon passing the test, you will receive your learner’s licence, valid for 6 months.
Step 2: Apply for a permanent LMV licence
Once you’ve held the learner’s licence for at least 30 days, you can apply for a permanent LMV licence.
Online process:
1. Visit parivahan sewa and navigate to “driving licence services.”
2. Select the “new driving licence application” option.
3. Fill in the application form, selecting LMV-non-transport or LMV-transport.
4. Upload necessary documents and your learner’s licence details.
5. Pay the application fee (₹700–₹1,000 depending on the state).
6. Book a driving test appointment at the nearest rto.
Offline process:
1. Collect the physical application form from your local RTO.
2. Submit the completed form along with required documents.
3. Pay the application fee at the RTO counter.
4. Schedule your driving test.
Step 3: Take the driving test
Driving tests are conducted at designated RTO test tracks to assess:
● Vehicle control and manoeuvring skills.
● Knowledge of road safety rules and traffic signs.
● Ability to follow lane discipline, signal use, and safe driving practices.
Outcome:
● Pass: Your LMV licence will be issued within 7–10 days.
● Fail: You can retake the test after a stipulated period (usually 7 days).
Fee structure for LMV licence in 2025
Service | Approximate fee |
Learner’s licence fee | ₹200 – ₹500 |
Permanent licence fee | ₹700 – ₹1,000 |
Driving test fee | ₹300 – ₹500 |
Renewal fee | ₹500 – ₹700 |
Duplicate licence fee | ₹400 – ₹600 |
note: fees may vary by state.
Renewal and duplicate LMV licence
Renewal
● Renew every 20 years or until you turn 40 years old (LMV-non-transport).
● LMV-transport licences are typically valid for 5 years.
● Documents required: expired licence, form 9 (renewal form), and medical certificate.
Duplicate licence
● Apply for a duplicate licence in case of loss or damage.
● Documents needed: fir copy, affidavit, and a photocopy of your original licence.
Benefits of having an LMV licence
● Legal driving: driving without a licence can result in hefty fines or legal penalties.
● Insurance claims: essential for claiming vehicle insurance during accidents.
● Professional opportunities: enables access to jobs that require vehicle operation.
● Safe and responsible driving: encourages adherence to traffic laws and safe driving practices.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) licence in 2025 has become a streamlined and straightforward process. From personal journeys to professional pursuits, this licence is your ticket to a world of opportunities on the road. Begin your application now and get ready to drive with confidence and ease!
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive a bike with an LMV licence?
No, you need a separate two-wheeler licence.
Is aadhaar mandatory for an LMV licence application?
Yes, aadhaar is required for verification purposes.
How long does the LMV licence application process take?
The process, including tests, generally takes 15–30 days.
What happens if I fail the driving test?
You can reschedule the test after a 7-day waiting period.
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