KNOW ALL ABOUT DRIVING LICENCE
Vehicular traffic is operational on public roads. Therefore, ownership of transportation requires prior approval from designated authorities, as well as accountability for proper functioning. This is known as a driver’s licence.
The Significance of a Driver’s Licence
The concept of a driving licence came into existence in the late 19th century. Karl Benz was the first individual authorized to drive his vehicle in the public domain.
Initially, driving licence implied proof of ownership and permission for driving with a specific speed limit. Conducting specialized tests for the issuance of driver’s licence started in 1934. This was carried out with the aim of educating drivers about regulations for traffic, road signs, etc.
Basically, a driver’s licence provides permission for any entity for vehicular ownership. In turn, accountability is expected from the holder of the driving licence with respect to following traffic regulations and avoiding traffic fatalities.
Driving Licence Details
A driving licence is a government-issued document for operating transportation vehicles. The licence number issued is completely unique to every individual. It has the following components –
- Name of the state – Two letters indicates the state in which the driving licence has been issued. For example, MH for Maharashtra
- Area code – The next two numbers indicate the local area. For example, 01 for Mumbai, 12 for Pune
- Year of issuing licence – The four digits which appear after the area code provide driving licence details with respect to the year of issuance of the licence. For example, 2004 indicates the licence was provided in that year.
- Unique number identity – The seven digits at the end indicate the unique identifier for that particular region. This number may be replicated in another driving licence issued elsewhere.
Other details given are –
- Name of the licence holder
- Address with pin code
- Date of issuing and date of validity
- Signatures of the issuing authority and the licence holder
- Photograph of the licence holder
The licence also contains a security design (chip) for recording driving licence details in the event of traffic rule violations.
Types of Driver’s Licence
In India, a driver’s licence is issued under one of the seven categories.
- Learner’s permit – This is issued while learning to drive a vehicle. Validity lasts for six months.
- Permanent licence – The licencee is required to have complete knowledge of traffic rules and regulations.
- Duplicate permit – In the event of theft or loss of licence, a duplicate is issued. A FIR is required to be registered along with a receipt from the Transport Authority.
- International permit – This is one of the most relatively unknown types of driver’s licence. Any individual travelling abroad can acquire the driving permit of that country by producing the necessary required documents.
- Two-wheeler permit – This is applicable for two-wheeler transport such as motorcycles, scooters, etc.
- Light vehicle permit – This is issued for light vehicles. For example, three-wheelers, cars, etc.
- Heavy vehicle permits – These are given for heavy motor vehicles. For example, buses, trucks, etc.
How to Apply for a Driver’s Licence?
No individual can drive a vehicle without a valid driver’s permit.
The official website of the Transport Ministry has a separate section focused on applying for driving licence. An online pro forma has to be filled up, followed by uploading of the required documents, and other details.
The person wishing to acquire a new licence can book a slot for the driving test according to personal convenience. Additionally, payment of fees has to be done online depending on the licence type to be acquired.
Driver’s Licence Test
The driving licence test in India comprises of two parts –
- Theory Examination – This is an online exam related to traffic rules, traffic signals, and road signs. The latest traffic manual issued by the Transport Authority is used for the driver’s licence test. An individual can appear for this test as many times as desired. After passing the online examination, a learner’s licence is issued.
- Practical Examination – One month after acquiring the learner’s licence, the practical examination is conducted in the presence of a designated Transport Authority official. It is required to have proper knowledge of the vehicle for which the licence is required.
When is Driving Licence Checked?
After passing the theory and practical examinations, the status of the driver licence can be checked online.
After issuance of the licence, one is required to carry it whenever driving. The driving licence check is essential for its validity and to prevent impersonation. Alternately, the police may scan the chip present in the licence in order to issue a violation ticket.
Traffic offences can range from missing a signal, lane changing, crossing speed limit, riding without a helmet, parking in the restricted area, etc.
Driving Licence Renewal
A driving licence loses its validity after the expiry date. Therefore, it is extremely essential to renew it on time. Renewal fees are charged accordingly.
The official website of the Transport Ministry contains an online form which is required to be furnished completely for driver’s licence renewal. Required documents are to be submitted at Transport Authority office, and a renewed licence is thus issued after a span of fifteen days.
A buffer period of one month is provided beyond the date of expiry. If renewal is not completed in this one month, the individual will be required to appear for a repeat examination for a fresh driver’s licence.
Conclusion
Acquiring a driving licence in India is much simpler as compared to other countries. Driving a vehicle on public roads requires complete accountability towards pedestrians as well as policemen. In the Indian system, a driver’s licence also serves the purpose of identity. Therefore, this document should be handled with complete care. One should try their level best to maintain traffic discipline so that public roads become a safer means to travel.
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