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Driving licence fees in Karnataka 2025

Explore the full 2025 fee structure for learner and permanent driving licences in Karnataka, including smart card costs, renewal fees, and road safety cess for different vehicles.

  • 05 May 2025
  • 6 min read
  • 4 views

The state of Karnataka has some of the most beautiful driving roads in India. Its scenery ranges from busy cities to quiet beaches and wildlife preserves. Understanding the state's driving licence fees is essential to obtain or renew your licence. This complete guide tells you everything you need to know about driving licence fees in Karnataka.

Driving licence fees structure in Karnataka

Karnataka, like other Indian states, charges different amounts for different types of driver's licences, depending on the vehicle category. Here's an overview of the fees for various licence-related services in the state:

Licence-related Service

Fees (in ₹)

Learner's Licence Issuance

₹200

Learner's Licence Renewal

₹200

Driving Licence Issuance

₹200

Driving licence Test

₹300

Driving licence Renewal

₹200

International Driving Permit Issuance

₹1,000

Renewed Driving licence Issuance

₹200

Appeal against RTOs fees

₹500

Issuance and renewal of licence for a driving school

₹10,000

Duplicate licence Issuance for Driving Schools

₹5,000

 

Driving licence fees structure for learner's licence in Karnataka

You need a learner's permit before you can get a regular driver's licence. Here's the list of fees for getting a learner's licence in Karnataka:

  • Learner's licence Issuance: ₹150
  • Learner's licence Test Fee: ₹50
  • Learner's licence Retest Fee: ₹300

The fee for getting a learner's licence is ₹200 (issuance + test fee). If you fail the test or miss your planned appointment, you must pay ₹300 as a retake fee and book a new appointment.

Driving licence fees structure for permanent driving licence in Karnataka

After having a learner's licence for at least 30 days, you can apply for a permanent driving licence. The fee scheme for a new driving licence fees in Karnataka includes:

Item

Fees (in ₹)

Driving licence Grant

₹40

Driving licence Test

₹100

Form 7 (Smart Card)

₹200

Road Safety Cess for Driving licence for Geared/Non-Geared 2-Wheeler

₹100

Road Safety Cess for Driving licence for Light Motor Vehicles (Non-Transport)

₹150

Road Safety Cess for Driving licence for Light Motor Vehicles (Transport)

₹200

Road Safety Cess for Driving licence for Medium and Heavy Motor Vehicles

₹500

 

The total fee varies depending on the type of vehicle. The basic 4 wheeler driving licence fees in Karnataka start at ₹200 plus the relevant road safety cess amount.

Facts about driving licence (DL) fees in Karnataka

The total fee varies depending on the type of vehicle. The basic 4 wheeler driving licence fees in Karnataka start at ₹200 plus the relevant road safety cess amount.

Facts about driving licence (DL) fees in Karnataka

Here are some important facts about driving licence Karnataka fees that every candidate should know:

  • A learner's licence lasts 180 days, and you must apply for a regular driving licence within this time frame.
  • You need to hold a learner's licence for at least 30 days before applying for a permanent licence.
  • If you fail your first driving test, you can retake it after a minimum of 7 days.
  • A driving licence in India is good for 20 years and needs to be updated before expiry.
  • You can pay the driving licence fees offline by visiting your nearest RTO.
  • Karnataka driving licences are good throughout India, given they are not outdated.

The application process for a driving licence in Karnataka

The process to receive a driving licence in Karnataka includes several steps:

  • Download the Form: Visit https://transport.karnataka.gov.in/ to download Form No. 4 for online application.
  • Form Submission: Complete the form and send it to the closest RTO with the required documents.
  • Test Scheduling: Request the RTO to arrange your driving licence test.
  • Test Attendance: Be present at the test centre 30 minutes before your planned time.
  • Licence Dispatch: Upon passing the test, you'll receive your licence within 30 days via speed post.

Conclusion

Understanding the Karnataka driving licence fees is an important part of the application process. Knowing the exact fees can make the process easier and more efficient, whether you're a first-time user or updating your current licence.

Alongside a legal driving licence, getting the right car insurance is equally important for a worry-free driving experience. The Motor Vehicles Act requires at least a third party car insurance cover for all vehicles on Indian roads. However, given the uncertain nature of road travel, choosing complete car insurance online is highly suggested. Online car insurance platforms offer the ease of reviewing different plans and choosing the most suitable choice. While third-party car insurance covers damages to other vehicles and people during crashes, complete coverage protects your vehicle against theft, natural disasters, and accidental damages.


Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information. 

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