Situated in the eastern part of India, Jharkhand is a state that boasts not only breathtaking landscapes but also a rich cultural heritage. It's a place where the old-world charm of rural India blends seamlessly with modernity, creating a unique tapestry of experiences for its residents.
With a population of over 38 million people and a diverse mix of urban and rural areas, Jharkhand is a state on the move. And to traverse its roads legally and explore its myriad wonders, a valid driving licence is your key.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the process of obtaining a driving licence in Jharkhand, providing valuable insights, statistics, and local knowledge to help you successfully secure your licence. Whether you're a resident of this vibrant state or a newcomer eager to explore its beauty, this guide is your roadmap to safe and legal driving in Jharkhand.
What is the Eligibility to Apply for a Driving Licence in Jharkhand?
If you want to apply for a driving licence in Jharkhand, you have to meet the following criteria:
- Applicants must have a valid learner’s licence.
- Applicants must be at least 18 (eighteen) years of age.
- Applicants must apply for a permanent driving licence 30 (thirty) days after or within 180 (one hundred and eighty) days of acquiring the learner’s licence.
- Applicants have to know the traffic rules and regulations thoroughly.
- Applicants must be at least 20 (twenty) years old when applying for a commercial driving licence.
What are the Types of Driving Licences in Jharkhand?
The Transport Department in Jharkhand issues Driving Licences (DLs) based on different types of requirements and vehicles. Before you get a driving licence, you should get a learner's licence.
Here are the kinds of licences you can apply for:
Type of Driving Licence | Type of Vehicle |
Two-wheeler (gearless) | Scooters, mopeds, gearless bikes, etc. |
Two-wheeler (geared) | Geared motorcycles, scooters, etc. |
Private four-wheeler (geared) | Hatchbacks, SUVs, MUVs, Coupés, Sedans, etc. |
Commercial vehicles | Transport buses, trucks, etc. |
Other vehicles | Transport trucks that transfer hazardous/industrial goods. |
What are the Documents Required to Apply for a Driving Licence in Jharkhand?
Applicants require the following documents to apply for a driving licence in Jharkhand:
Any of the following as proof of age:
- Educational certificate
- Birth certificate
- Attested copy of the passport
- Certificate issued from the employer if you are working for the state/ central government or a local body.
Any of the following as proof of residence/address:
- Voter’s ID
- Ration card
- LIC policy bond
- Valid passport
- Employer certificate issued by local/central or state government
Other documents:
- Form 4: Driving licence
- Form 5: Commercial driving licence
- Form 1A: Medical certificate, which has to be filled by a physician (necessary for applicants older than the age of 40)
- Form 1: Physical fitness declaration by the applicant
- Original learner’s licence
- Three passport-size photographs
Also Read – Driving Licence Application Online Form
How to Apply and Prepare for a Learner's Licence in Jharkhand?
To apply for a Learner’s Licence in Jharkhand, you need to do the following:
- Visit the official Sarathi Parivahan website.
- Select your state.
- Once you’ve selected your state, click on “Apply for a Learner Licence.”
- Click on “Continue” and enter the required details.
- Once you have completed the application, you need to appear for an online test to get a learner’s licence. Here’s what this test consists of:
- 10 Multiple Choice Questions
- Duration: 10 Minutes
- Topics Covered: Road Signs, Traffic Rules and Regulations
- Qualifying criteria: Minimum 6 marks out of 10
Note: In case you fail the qualifying test, you are allowed to reapply after 7 days. After 30 days of receiving the learner’s licence, you are eligible to apply for a permanent licence.
How to Get a Driving Licence in Jharkhand?
Jharkhand offers three types of driving licences:
- Licence for 2-wheelers without gears and engines smaller than 50cc
- Driving licence for a Commercial Vehicle (CV)
- Driving licence for a Light Motor Vehicle (LMV)
If you want to apply for a driving licence in Jharkhand, you can choose from the following options:
- Online application through the official Sarathi Parivahan website.
- Offline application at the nearest RTO in your city.
Read on to understand these processes in detail.
How to Apply for a Driving Licence in Jharkhand Online?
Applying for a driving licence is far from a daunting task now. Once you’ve received your learner’s licence, you can apply for a driving licence after 30 days or within 6 months.
Here’s how you can apply for a driving licence online in Jharkhand through the Parivahan Portal:
- Visit the official Sarathi Parivahan website.
- Select your state.
- Once you’ve selected your state, click on “Apply for Driving Licence.”
- Click on “Continue” and enter the required details.
- Fill out the application form and upload your documents on the portal.
- After uploading all the documents, you need to select a slot for your driving test to be held at the RTO.
- Select LL Slot Booking.
- Select a date and time and book your appointment to take the driving test.
Once the form is filled out and your driving test is booked, you’re left with the final step, fee payment. To pay the driving licence fees online, you need to follow these steps:
- Head over to the main menu of the Sarathi Parivahan portal
- Select your state
- Click on “Fee Payments” as shown below
- Proceed to enter your details and click on “Pay Now"
- Once the payment is made at your end, head back to the main menu
- Click on “Check Payment Status” to get your payment details and receipt
- After entering your Application Number, Date of Birth, and the Captcha code, your payment receipt is generated as shown below.
- Remember to print/save this receipt.
How to Apply for a Driving Licence in Jharkhand Offline?
If you wish to skip the online process and apply for your driving licence offline, you will need to do the following:
- Visit your nearest RTO office in Jharkhand and collect Form 4 or print it from the Sarathi Parivahan website.
- Fill out and submit the application form.
- Attach all the required documents.
- Book a slot for your driving test.
- If you pass the test, your licence will be sent to you via speed post.
To view a list of RTOs in Jharkhand, click here.
Also Read – What is the full form of RTO? – Regional Transport Office
How is a Driving Licence Test Conducted in Jharkhand?
Your driving test will be conducted by an Inspector at the RTO. It requires the applicant to drive on the RTO's designated driving track. Applicants are tested on general driving skills, how well they follow the rules, and their knowledge of the rules.
In Jharkhand, the driving licence test adheres to the Motor Vehicle Act of 1988. Applicants should bring their vehicle for the test. Alternatively, they can use a motor driving school's vehicle. Here's how the test is conducted:
Two-Wheeler & Three-Wheeler Test Candidates
- You must navigate within a designated area, forming figure-8 patterns while avoiding stalling
- Upon success, you may proceed to ride on public roads
Four-Wheeler Test
- Driving a four-wheeler requires precise control without touching boundary markers during the test
- Afterward, candidates must demonstrate their skills on public roads
In case you are unsuccessful, you can take the test again after 7 days, after paying a nominal fee.
How to Obtain an International Driving Licence in Jharkhand?
In Jharkhand, acquiring an international driving permit (IDP) necessitates an application at the RTO along with the necessary documents. While no test is mandatory, applicants must possess a permanent DL.
If you intend to secure an international driving permit, you should gather the following documents from your current place of residence:
- A copy of your Visa
- A copy of your Passport
- A copy of your permanent driving licence
- Proof of residence
- Medical form 1-A
- Evidence of your nationality
- 5 passport-size photographs
Also Read – How to Drive a Car – Manual & Automatic
Driving Licence Fee Structure in Jharkhand
When applying for a driving licence in Jharkhand, you need to pay the application fee online. Here’s a breakdown of the amount you need to pay:
Purpose | Fees |
Driving Test | ₹50 |
Issuance of Learner’s Licence | ₹130-₹260 |
Issuance of Driver’s Licence | ₹500-₹800 |
Issuance of International Driving Licence | ₹1,000 |
Addition of Vehicle Class to Licence | ₹500 |
Driving Licence Renewal | ₹200 |
Driving Licence Renewal After Grace Period | ₹200 (plus an additional fee of ₹1,000 for each year or part thereof of delay) |
Issue of Duplicate Licence | ₹200 |
Road Safety Cess forDriving Licence, Non-Transport Light Motor Vehicle, Transport Light Motor Vehicle, andMedium and Heavy Motor Vehicles | ₹100 |
Form 7/Smart Card | ₹200 |
Also Read – Driving Licence Application Online Form
The Bottom Line
Embarking on the journey to obtain your driving licence in Jharkhand is akin to opening a door to countless opportunities and experiences. Beyond being a legal necessity, your driving licence serves as a key to unlock the diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich heritage of this dynamic state.
Throughout this guide, we've been your reliable companion, offering vital information, insights, and practical steps to ensure a successful application process. As you embark on your path to becoming a licensed driver in Jharkhand, bear in mind that responsible driving and strict adherence to road safety regulations are vital not only for your safety but also for the preservation of the state's unique character and natural beauty.
Whether you are a seasoned resident or a newcomer eager to delve into the charm of Jharkhand, obtaining your driving licence is your first step towards numerous memorable journeys. So, fasten your seatbelt, stay informed, and embrace the road to driving legally in Jharkhand, all while immersing yourself in its diverse culture and awe-inspiring landscapes.
FAQs
Q. When to check your driving licence status in Jharkhand?
It takes 30 days to get your driving licence after the date of the driving test. You can start checking your driving licence status two weeks after clearing your driving test in Jharkhand.
Q. Is there any fee to check the driving licence status?
There is no fee to access the website or check your driver's licence status.
Q. Can I drive on public roads with a learner's driving licence?
Yes, you can drive on public roads with a learner's driving licence. However, you must be accompanied by someone carrying a permanent/valid driving licence.
Q. For how long is a learner's driving licence valid?
A learner's driving licence is valid for 6 months or 180 days. However, the licence holder must apply for a permanent driving licence after 30 days and before 180 days from the date of issuance of the learner's licence.
Q. Can I renew a learner's driving licence?
Yes, a learner's driving licence can be renewed if it expires.
Q. Can I reappear for my driving test if I fail on the first attempt?
Yes, you can reappear for your driving test after 7 days of your first attempt.
Q. What is the legal age for driving in India?
The legal age for driving a geared vehicle is 18 years, while the legal age for driving non-geared vehicles is 16 years.
Q. If I have an existing driving licence, how do I check its status?
You can check the status of your existing driving licence here.
Q. How do I download my driving licence on DigiLocker?
Here’s how you can download your driving licence on DigiLocker:
Step 1: Visit the https://www.digilocker.gov.in/ or app and sign up.
Step 2: Select “Get more Issued Documents” from the “Issued Documents” menu. Click on “Pull documents”.
Step 3: Select “Ministry of Road Transport and Highways” under “Central Government”.
Step 4: Click on “Driving Licence” under “Document Type”. Enter your details: name, date of birth, and driving licence number. Click on “Get Document.” This will download your DL on your phone.
Q. What is the validity of a driving licence in Jharkhand?
A private driving licence is valid for 20 years from the date of issue or till the holder attains 40 years of age, whichever comes earlier. After the age of 40, a driving licence is issued for 10 years and then 5 years subsequently.