Ultimate Guide to Applying for a Driving Licence in Karnataka (2026): Online Process, Fees, and New Rules

Ultimate Guide to Applying for a Driving Licence in Karnataka (2026): Online Process, Fees, and New Rules dl

Are you looking to hit the roads of Bengaluru, Mysuru, or Hubballi legally? Obtaining a Driving Licence (DL) in Karnataka has become significantly easier thanks to the digitalization of the RTO (Regional Transport Office) services. In 2026, the Karnataka Transport Department has introduced new mandates, including strict timelines for online tests and Aadhaar-based “contactless” services.

Understanding the Driving Licence Categories in Karnataka

Before you apply, you must identify which vehicle category you intend to drive. Choosing the wrong category can lead to application rejection.

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MCWOG (Motorcycle Without Gear): For scooters and mopeds with engine capacity below 50cc (Age limit: 16+).
MCWG (Motorcycle With Gear): For all motorcycles and scooters with engine capacity above 50cc.
LMV (Light Motor Vehicle): For non-transport personal cars, SUVs, and jeeps.
HMV (Heavy Motor Vehicle): For trucks, buses, and large commercial vehicles.
Trans (Transport Vehicle): For taxis, delivery vans, and commercial three-wheelers.

Eligibility Criteria for DL in Karnataka (2026 Update)

To apply for a licence in Karnataka, you must meet the following legal requirements:

Age Requirement:
- 16 Years: Only for MCWOG (up to 50cc) with parental consent.
- 18 Years: For all non-transport vehicles (MCWG and LMV).
- 20 Years: For Transport/Commercial vehicles.
Educational Qualification: For commercial/transport licences, the applicant must have cleared at least the 8th Standard.
Mental and Physical Fitness: You must be physically fit to operate a vehicle. If you are over 40 years of age, a Medical Certificate (Form 1A) is mandatory.
Learner’s Licence: You must hold a valid Learner’s Licence for at least 30 days before applying for a permanent DL.

Essential Documents Checklist

The “Contactless Service” in Karnataka relies heavily on verified digital documents. Ensure you have scanned copies of the following:

A. Proof of Identity & Age (Any One)

Aadhaar Card (Highly recommended for online authentication)
PAN Card
Passport
Birth Certificate
10th Standard Marks Card (SSLC)

B. Proof of Address (Any One)

Aadhaar Card
Voter ID
Ration Card
Utility Bills (Electricity, Water, or Telephone – not older than 3 months)
Rental Agreement (If from another state, often requires a notarized affidavit)

C. Other Mandatory Documents

Form 1: Physical Fitness Self-Declaration (Standard for all).
Form 1A: Medical Certificate (Mandatory for age 40+ or commercial DL).
Passport Size Photos: 3-5 recent color photographs.
Learner’s Licence: The original LL copy (for permanent DL stage).

Phase 1: How to Apply for a Learner’s Licence (LL) Online

The Learner’s Licence is your entry ticket. In 2026, Karnataka has made the LL process almost entirely “Contactless” through Aadhaar Authentication.

Step-by-Step LL Application:

Visit the Portal: Go to Sarathi Parivahan.
Select State: Choose Karnataka.
Apply for LL: Select “Apply for Learner Licence” from the menu.
Aadhaar Authentication: Choose “Submit via Aadhaar Authentication.” This allows you to skip the RTO visit for document verification.
OTP Verification: Enter your Aadhaar number. You will receive an OTP on your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
Fill Application Details: Most details will be pre-filled from your Aadhaar. Select the vehicle class (e.g., MCWG & LMV).
Upload Documents & Photo: Upload your signature and any additional documents if requested.
Fee Payment: Pay the LL fee online (approx. ₹200).

The 2026 New Rule: The 7-Day Deadline

Starting January 1, 2026, the Karnataka Transport Department has mandated that the online LL test must be completed within 7 days of fee payment. If you fail to take the test within this window, your application will be automatically cancelled.

The Online LL Test (STALL):

Mandatory Video: Before the test, you must watch a Road Safety tutorial video on the portal.
Test Pattern: Usually 15-20 multiple-choice questions about road signs and traffic rules.
Passing Score: You need to answer at least 60% correctly.
Instant Result: Once you pass, you can download your Learner’s Licence PDF immediately.

Phase 2: How to Apply for a Permanent Driving Licence (DL)

Once you have completed 30 days with your Learner’s Licence (and within 180 days), you are eligible for the permanent DL.

Steps for Permanent DL:

Log in to Sarathi: Select “Apply for Driving Licence.”
Enter LL Details: Input your LL number and Date of Birth.
Select Vehicle Class: Choose the vehicles for which you want to take the test.
DL Slot Booking: This is crucial. Choose a date and time for your physical driving test at the RTO.
Pay DL Fees: The fee is approximately ₹700 to ₹1,000 (including smart card and test fees).
Document Verification: On the day of the test, visit the RTO with original documents.

The Driving Test: What to Expect at Karnataka RTOs

The driving test is the final hurdle. You must bring your own vehicle (or one from a driving school) that matches the category you applied for.

Two-Wheeler Test: You will be asked to ride in an ‘8’ (Eight) formation without touching your feet to the ground. You must also demonstrate hand signals and balance.
Four-Wheeler Test: You will likely perform an ‘H’ track test, a parallel parking test, and a gradient (slope) test to ensure you don’t roll back while starting on an incline.
Road Test: In some RTOs, the inspector may take you on a public road to check your awareness of signals and traffic flow.

Fee Structure for DL in Karnataka (2026)

The fee structure is standardized across the state but may vary slightly based on the vehicle class.

Service Type	Fee (Approx.)
Learner’s Licence (LL)	₹150 + ₹50 (Test fee) = ₹200
Permanent DL (Issuance)	₹200
DL Test Fee	₹300 per class
Smart Card Fee	₹200
Road Safety Cess (2-wheeler)	₹100
Road Safety Cess (4-wheeler)	₹150

Tips to Ensure Your DL Application is Not Rejected

Aadhaar-Mobile Link: Ensure your Aadhaar is linked to an active mobile number. This is the only way to use the “Contactless” service.
File Size: When uploading documents, keep files under 500KB in JPEG or PDF format.
Address Consistency: If your current address is different from your Aadhaar address, you must provide a valid local address proof (like a rental agreement).
Practice the ‘8’ and ‘H’: Most rejections happen during the physical test. Practice these specific formations before your slot.

Click Hear to Apply

Securing a Driving Licence in Karnataka in 2026 is a streamlined, tech-driven process. By leveraging the Aadhaar-based authentication, you can avoid multiple trips to the RTO and handle most of the paperwork from your home. Remember to respect the 7-day deadline for the LL test and keep your documents ready.

Are you ready to book your slot? Visit the Sarathi Parivahan portal today and start your journey toward becoming a licensed driver!