The learner's licence process is governed nationally by the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, but the day-to-day experience of applying and testing varies meaningfully depending on which state you're in. Here's what commonly differs, so you know what to expect locally.
Application Process
Most states now route applications through the Sarathi Parivahan portal, but a few states use their own transport department portals instead, with different document upload formats and slot-booking systems. It's worth checking your specific state transport department site rather than assuming the central portal covers you.
Test Format
Some RTOs use a touchscreen kiosk for the computerised test, while others use a desktop interface with a mouse. The number of questions and time limit can also vary — most states use 15 to 20 questions with a 60% passing threshold, but a handful set different thresholds or add extra time for regional-language test takers.
Language Options
While Hindi and English are available almost everywhere, the availability of other regional languages for the test interface depends on the state. Learners in states with less common regional languages sometimes find the official test only offered in Hindi or English, even if their preparation material was in their native language.
Fees
Application fees for a learner's licence typically range from ₹200 to ₹500, but the exact amount, along with any additional service or portal charges, is set at the state level and can change from year to year.
Slot Availability and Wait Times
Urban RTOs in high-population states tend to have longer slot-booking wait times, sometimes several weeks out, while smaller-town RTOs can offer same-week appointments. If your test date matters — for example, before a job requirement — it's worth booking as early as possible.
Document Requirements
Aadhaar-based address and age proof is accepted almost everywhere, but some states still require an additional local address proof if your Aadhaar address doesn't match your current residence. It's worth confirming this before your appointment to avoid a rejected application.