How to Apply for a Commercial Driving Licence in India

A Commercial Driving Licence (CDL) is a special type of driving licence required to drive heavy vehicles or vehicles meant for commercial use, like trucks, taxis, auto-rickshaws, buses, or goods carriers. In India, it is mandatory for anyone driving such vehicles for professional or business purposes to have a valid commercial licence.

In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about how to apply for a commercial Driving Licence in India — from eligibility, documents required, application process, fees, and other important details.

What is a Commercial Driving Licence?

A commercial driving licence is an official document issued by the transport department of the state or union territory. It permits the holder to drive vehicles used for commercial purposes such as transporting goods, carrying passengers, or operating special category vehicles.

It is different from a private driving licence, which only allows you to drive private vehicles like cars or bikes for personal use.

Who Needs a Commercial Driving Licence?

You need a commercial driving licence if:

• You want to drive vehicles like taxis, auto-rickshaws, goods carriers, buses, or other transport vehicles.
  
  

• You wish to work as a driver for a transport company, delivery service, cab company, or logistics business.
  
  

• You plan to operate a commercial vehicle for your own business or as a rental service.

Types of Commercial Vehicles Covered

A commercial driving licence is required for the following types of vehicles:

• Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV)
  
  

• Medium Goods Vehicles (MGV)
  
  

• Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV)
  
  

• Heavy Passenger Motor Vehicles (like buses)
  
  

• Trailers
  
  

• Taxi Cabs
  
  

• Auto Rickshaws
  
  

• Tankers
  
  

• Delivery Vans

Eligibility Criteria for a Commercial Driving Licence

To apply for a commercial driving licence in India, you must meet the following eligibility conditions:

1. Age: You should be at least 18 years old (in some states, 20 years is the minimum for heavy vehicles).
   
   

2. Driving Experience: You must already hold a valid private driving licence for a light motor vehicle (LMV) for at least 1 year.
   
   

3. Educational Qualification: A minimum 8th standard pass certificate is required.
   
   

4. Medical Fitness: You should be medically fit. A Form 1A (Medical Certificate) signed by a registered medical practitioner is mandatory.
   
   

5. No Disqualifications: You should not be disqualified from holding a driving licence.

Documents Required for Commercial Driving Licence

You need to submit the following documents while applying for a commercial driving licence:

1. Duly filled Application Form (Form 2)
   
   

2. Existing Private Driving Licence copy
   
   

3. Address Proof (Aadhar card, Passport, Voter ID, Ration Card, Utility bills)
   
   

4. Age Proof (Birth certificate, Aadhar card, PAN card, Passport)
   
   

5. Educational Qualification Proof (Minimum 8th pass certificate)
   
   

6. Form 1A (Medical Certificate) signed by a government doctor
   
   

7. Passport-sized photographs
   
   

8. Application fee payment receipt
   
   

9. Proof of training from a government-approved driving school (for some vehicle categories)

Driving Test for Commercial Licence

After submitting your application, you’ll need to appear for a practical driving test. The test will check your ability to handle a commercial vehicle properly, including:

1. Driving control and handling
   
   

2. Parking and reversing skills
   
   

3. Ability to follow road rules and signals
   
   

4. Safety awareness
   
   

5. Emergency handling

Validity of Commercial Driving Licence

The validity of a commercial driving licence is:

• 3 years for most commercial vehicle categories
  
  

• 1 year for hazardous goods vehicles

How to Renew a Commercial Driving Licence

If your commercial driving licence is about to expire, you need to renew it by submitting:

1. Application for renewal (Form 9)
   
   

2. Expired driving licence
   
   

3. Form 1A (Medical Certificate)
   
   

4. Fee payment receipt
   
   

5. Passport-sized photographs

Importance of Commercial Driving Licence

Having a valid commercial driving licence is essential because:

1. It is legally mandatory to drive commercial vehicles
   
   

2. It helps you work professionally as a driver in transport companies, logistics firms, and government services
   
   

3. It ensures road safety by allowing only trained and tested drivers to handle large or passenger-carrying vehicles
   
   

4. It allows you to start your own commercial transport business

Suggested read- What is a Driving Licence

Conclusion

Applying for a Commercial Driving Licence in India is a straightforward process if you meet the eligibility criteria and have the necessary documents. Whether you apply online through the Parivahan portal or offline at your nearest RTO, make sure to follow the correct procedure, provide accurate information, and clear your driving test.

A valid commercial licence is not just a legal requirement — it’s also an important credential for building a career in the driving and transportation industry. By holding a commercial driving licence, you open up opportunities to work professionally, drive commercial vehicles safely, and contribute to organised transport services across the country.

If you’re planning to drive commercially in India, start the application process today and stay safe and legal on the roads.