Types of Driving Licences in India
In India, there are several types of driving licenses that individuals can obtain, each of which is issued for specific purposes and vehicle categories. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the types of driving licenses in India include:
- Learner's License (LL): This is a temporary license issued to individuals who are learning to drive. It is valid for six months and restricts the holder to drive only under certain conditions and with a qualified driver accompanying them.
- Permanent Driving License (DL): After holding a Learner's License for the stipulated period, individuals can apply for a Permanent Driving License. This license allows the holder to drive a specific category of vehicles on public roads.
- Commercial Driving License: This license is required for driving commercial vehicles like buses, trucks, taxis, etc. It's important for individuals engaged in transportation services.
- Motorcycle Without Gear (MCWG): This license is specifically for riding motorcycles and scooters without gears.
- Motorcycle With Gear (MCWG): This license allows the holder to ride motorcycles and scooters with gears.
- Light Motor Vehicle (LMV): This license permits the holder to drive cars and small vehicles that fall under the LMV category.
- Light Motor Vehicle Non-Transport (LMV-NT): This license is for driving personal non-commercial vehicles in the LMV category.
- Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV): This license is required for driving heavy vehicles like trucks and buses.
- Heavy Passenger Vehicle (HPV): This license specifically allows the holder to drive passenger-carrying heavy vehicles.
- Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV): This license is for driving heavy goods-carrying vehicles like trucks.
- Invalid Carriage Vehicle License: This license is for individuals who need to operate specially designed vehicles for people with disabilities.
- Road Roller License: For driving road rollers used for construction and maintenance of roads.
- Agricultural Tractor License: This license is needed for operating agricultural tractors on public roads.
It's important to note that rules and regulations may vary, and new changes might have been implemented since my last update. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information, I recommend checking with the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways or the local Regional Transport Office (RTO) in India.
Features of Driving Licences in India
As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the driving licenses in India are designed with various security features to prevent counterfeiting and ensure the authenticity of the document. Some of the features you might find on an Indian driving license include:
- Personal Information: The license typically includes the holder's name, photograph, date of birth, and address.
- Signature: The license may include the signature of the license holder.
- Unique Number: Each driving license has a unique identification number.
- Issue and Expiry Dates: The dates when the license was issued and when it expires are mentioned.
- Blood Group: Some licenses may include the blood group of the license holder.
- Restrictions: If there are any restrictions on the type of vehicle or driving conditions, they are usually mentioned on the license.
- QR Code or Barcode: Some licenses include a QR code or barcode that can be scanned for quick verification of information.
- Holograms: Holographic images or foils might be used to prevent tampering.
- Microprinting: Tiny text that is difficult to reproduce using standard printing methods.
- Security Threads: Embedded security threads or strips that are visible when the license is held up to light.
- Guilloche Patterns: Intricate, repetitive patterns that are challenging to replicate.
- Embossing or Raised Printing: Certain elements of the license might be raised or embossed.
- UV Features: Some elements might be visible only under ultraviolet (UV) light.
- Watermark: Watermarks may be incorporated into the paper to verify authenticity.
- Laser Engraving: Laser-engraved text or images that are difficult to reproduce using conventional methods.
- Tamper-Evident Features: Any attempt to tamper with the license can leave behind visible evidence of alteration.
- Security Laminates: Protective laminates that make it harder to alter or duplicate the license.
- Issuer's Signature and Seal: The license might include the signature and official seal of the issuing authority.
Please note that the specific features may vary based on the state or region within India and any updates or changes made after September 2021 would not be reflected in this list. It's important to check with the official authorities for the most current information on the features of driving licenses in India.