Having a valid driving licence in Himachal Pradesh is a legal necessity. And not just for the sake of avoiding fines, but for ensuring that you, the people around you, and your vehicle stay safe on roads that demand attention, skill, and responsibility.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through every step you need to know about obtaining, renewing, and downloading a driving licence in Himachal Pradesh. Whether you’re a first-timer, a renewer, or someone simply looking to download their DL online—we’ve got it covered.
Also Read: Driving Licence in Haryana: Online and Offline Process
Why a Driving Licence Matters
Most states will talk about traffic rules and penalties. But in Himachal Pradesh, where the terrain itself is part of the test, a licence reflects more than road eligibility. It shows you know how to handle tricky inclines, low-visibility fogs, sharp U-turns, and even the occasional curious cow crossing the road.
This isn’t a state where you drive on autopilot. Every journey is a blend of alertness and instinct. Which is why the process of getting a licence here, though digitised, is built on ensuring that applicants are capable and ready.
Types of Driving Licences in Himachal Pradesh
Like every other state, Himachal Pradesh also follows the classifications outlined by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). Here’s what you can apply for:
- Learner’s Licence (LL): Temporary and valid for six months. Meant for people learning to drive. You must clear a basic theory test to get it.
- Permanent Driving Licence (DL): Issued 30 days after your learner’s licence. You must pass a practical driving test at the local RTO.
- Commercial Driving Licence (CDL): For those driving transport vehicles—buses, taxis, trucks.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): For driving abroad. It is valid for 1 year and must be accompanied by your Indian DL.
Check Out: How to Renew Driving Licence in Delhi: A Step-by-Step Instruction
How to Apply for Driving Licence in Himachal Pradesh
The good news? You don’t have to wait in line at the RTO anymore. The Himachal government has integrated the Sarthi Parivahan portal, making most of the steps digital. That said, some things still need a physical visit—like your driving test. Can’t do that online (yet).
Step-by-Step Process:
- Visit the official Sarthi Parivahan website
Link: https://parivahan.gov.in/
- Select ‘Himachal Pradesh’ as your state from the dropdown.
- Click on ‘Apply for Driving Licence’ under the “Driving Licence Services” section.
- Fill in the application form
Basic details like name, address, blood group, etc.
- Upload the required documents (see list below).
- Book a test slot for your LL or DL as required.
- Pay the application fee online.
- Appear for the test (theory for LL, practical for DL).
- Receive your driving licence—either as a digital PDF or via post in card form.
Documents You’ll Need:
- Proof of age (Birth certificate / PAN card / Aadhaar card)
- Proof of address (Electricity bill / Aadhaar / Voter ID)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Learner’s Licence (for DL applicants)
- Form 1 and Form 1A (self and medical declaration)
- Application Form 4 (for DL)
HP Driving Licence Download Process
Lost your card? Or just want to have a soft copy on your phone? You can easily download your Himachal Pradesh driving licence through DigiLocker or directly from the Parivahan portal.
Steps:
- Go to https://parivahan.gov.in/rcdl/
- Select ‘Driving Licence’
- Enter your DL number and date of birth
- Download the digital copy
- Optionally, save it to DigiLocker or mParivahan app for everyday use
This version is valid and accepted almost everywhere unless a physical card is explicitly required (like at some checkpoints or government offices).
Read More: Understanding Driving Licenses in Tamil Nadu: Types, Process, and Key Insights
Renewal of Driving Licence in Himachal Pradesh
A standard DL is valid for 20 years or until the holder turns 50, whichever comes first. After that, it must be renewed every 5 years.
When Should You Renew?
- Ideally, 30 days before expiry
- You can also renew up to 1 year after expiry without much hassle
- If you delay beyond 1 year, you’ll need to go through additional paperwork and penalties
How to Renew Online:
- Visit https://parivahan.gov.in/
- Click on ‘Driving Licence Renewal’
- Select ‘Himachal Pradesh’ and proceed
- Enter DL number and complete verification
- Upload documents and pay the renewal fee (usually ₹200)
- Download receipt and track application status
- You’ll receive the new card at your registered address
Fees for Driving Licence Services in Himachal Pradesh
| Service Type | Fee (₹) |
| Learner’s Licence | 150 |
| Driving Test | 300 |
| Permanent DL Issue | 200 |
| DL Renewal | 200 |
| DL Duplicate | 250 |
| International Driving Permit | 1000 |
Note: Always verify fees on the official site before making payment. Charges may vary slightly based on location or additional service charges.
Final Thoughts
Getting your driving licence in Himachal Pradesh doesn’t need to feel like climbing the mountains themselves. It’s actually quite manageable, provided you know the steps, respect the timelines, and keep your documents in check. Sure, a few glitches might happen—servers hang, RTOs delay, and sometimes your photo on the licence makes you look like you haven’t slept in days. But that’s all part of the ride.
Because ultimately, your licence is more than a piece of plastic—it’s a pass to explore the hill roads, the pine valleys, and the stretches of calm you’ll only find in Himachal.
FAQs
Q1: Is there any age relaxation for DL in Himachal Pradesh?
No. Minimum age is 18 years for LMVs, 20 for commercial vehicles.
Q2: Can I use DigiLocker DL during a traffic check?
Yes. Digital DL via DigiLocker or mParivahan is legally valid.
Q3: Is medical certificate mandatory for all applicants?
Only for applicants aged 50+ or those applying for commercial DL.
Q4: What if I lose my DL?
You can apply for a duplicate licence online via the Parivahan portal.
Q5: Can tourists apply for DL in Himachal?
Only residents with a local address proof can apply.