Nestled in the northeastern part of India, the enchanting state of Meghalaya is a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural diversity. From the living root bridges of Cherrapunji to the serene lakes of Shillong, Meghalaya offers a breathtaking backdrop for every adventure. If you aspire to explore this picturesque paradise, you'll need more than just wanderlust – you'll need a driving licence.
Meghalaya, known for its diverse landscapes, has witnessed a significant rise in driving licence applications in recent years. According to recent data, the state has experienced a notable 12% increase in the issuance of driving licences, indicating the growing interest in discovering Meghalaya's natural beauty and the need for responsible driving practices in the region.
So, read on as we assist you in applying for and securing your driving licence in Meghalaya seamlessly!
What is the Eligibility Criteria to Apply for a Driving Licence in Meghalaya?
To get your driving licence in Meghalaya, you need to meet these conditions:
- If you want to ride a two-wheeler with an engine smaller than 50 cc, you must be at least 16 years old.
- If you want to ride a two-wheeler with an engine larger than 50 cc or a four-wheeler, you must be at least 18 years old.
- You can't drive a commercial vehicle if you're younger than 20, and you must know the road rules.
- You must hold a learner's permit for a minimum of 30 days and a maximum of 180 days before applying for a permanent licence.
Types of Driving Licences in Meghalaya
The Transport Department in Meghalaya 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 Meghalaya?
The following documents are required in order to obtain a driving licence (DL):
Proof of Age:
- The certification of an education board recognised by the government
- Passport
Proof of Residence:
- Voter’s ID
- Passport
- LIC policy bond
- Ration card
- Employee Certificate
- Employee certificate from a state/central government
Other Documents:
- Photocopy of learner's permit
- Form 4
- Form 5 for a commercial driver's licence
- Three passport-sized photos
- 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
- Three passport-size photographs
How to Apply and Prepare for a Learner's Licence in Meghalaya?
To apply for a Learner’s Licence in Meghalaya, 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 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 Meghalaya?
Meghalaya 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 Meghalaya, 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 Meghalaya 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 Meghalaya 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 Meghalaya Offline?
If you wish to skip the online process and apply for your driving licence offline, you will need to do the following:
- Visit the RTO office in your area 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 Meghalaya, click here.
How is a Driving Licence Test Conducted in Meghalaya?
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 Meghalaya, 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 of failure, you can take the test again after 7 days, after paying a nominal fee.
How to Obtain an International Driving Licence in Meghalaya?
In Meghalaya, 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
What are the Fees for Applying for a Driving Licence in Meghalaya?
Here’s a table detailing the different fees that you need to pay:
Type of Licence-related Issue | Fee (₹) |
Learner’s licence | ₹200 |
Learner’s licence renewal | ₹200 |
International driver’s licence | ₹500 |
Driving Licence Fees | ₹200 |
Driver’s licence test | ₹50 |
Driver’s licence renewal | ₹250 |
Renewal and issue of licence for driving schools | ₹10,000 |
Issue of renewed driver’s licence | ₹200 |
Appeal fee against RTO | ₹500 |
Issue of duplicate licence for driving schools | ₹5,000 |
The Bottom Line
Obtaining a driving licence in Meghalaya is not just a legal requirement; it's your key to exploring the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of this northeastern gem. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you'll not only fulfil the legal obligations but also gain the freedom to embark on memorable journeys across this scenic state.
Remember, with great power comes great responsibility. As you set out on your adventures behind the wheel, always prioritise safety and respect for the local laws. Meghalaya has so much to offer, and your driving licence will be your ticket to discovering its hidden treasures.
So, gear up, get ready, and let the roads of Meghalaya lead you to unforgettable experiences. Happy driving!
FAQs
Q. When to check your driving licence status in Meghalaya?
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 Meghalaya.
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 Meghalaya?
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.