Updated on - 13 Jan 2026
If you are a resident of Karnataka and plan to own a car for daily commuting, then you should obtain a driving licence. It is important to know how much your driving licence will cost in 2025. This guide covers the basic fees for both the Learner’s Licence (LL) and the permanent Driving Licence (DL). Knowing the correct amount ahead of time helps you apply without surprise costs.
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:
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Licence-related service
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Fees (in ₹)
|
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Learner's licence issuance
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₹200
|
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Learner's licence renewal
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₹200
|
|
Driving licence issuance
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₹200
|
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Driving licence test
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₹300
|
|
Driving licence renewal
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₹200
|
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International driving permit issuance
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₹1,000
|
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Issuance and renewal of licence for a driving school
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₹10,000
|
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Duplicate licence issuance for driving schools
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₹5,000
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Fee 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
Fee structure for a 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 for a new Karnataka driving licence includes:
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Item
|
Fees (in ₹)
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Driving licence grant
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₹40
|
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Driving licence test
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₹100
|
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Form 7 (Smart card)
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₹200
|
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Road safety cess for driving licence for geared/non-geared 2-wheeler
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₹100
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Road safety cess for driving licence for light motor vehicles (non-transport)
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₹150
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Road safety cess for driving licence for light motor vehicles (transport)
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₹200
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Road safety cess for driving licence for medium and heavy motor vehicles
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₹500
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The application process for a driving licence in Karnataka
The process to receive a driving licence in Karnataka includes several steps:
- Visit https://transport.karnataka.gov.in/ to download form No. 4 for online application.
- Complete the form and send it to the closest RTO with the required documents.
- Request the RTO to arrange your driving licence test.
- Be present at the test centre 30 minutes before your planned time.
- Upon passing the test, you'll receive your licence within 30 days via speed post.
Documents required for licence application
To apply for a driving licence in Karnataka in 2025, you need some basic documents.
- Proof of age, like your birth certificate or Aadhaar card
- Proof of address, such as an electricity bill or passport
- Learner’s licence, recent passport-size photos and a completed application form. If you are applying online, upload scanned copies of these documents.
- Always carry the originals when visiting the RTO for verification
Having all your papers ready helps you complete the process quickly and avoid any delay in getting your licence.
Tips to avoid extra driving licence costs
To avoid paying extra while getting your driving licence in Karnataka in 2025, always apply through the official RTO website or office.
- Do not depend on middlemen who may charge more.
- Ensure that all your documents are accurate and complete before submission to avoid rejection or fines.
- Pay your fees on time to skip late charges.
- Keep your learner’s licence valid before taking the driving test.
- Renew your licence before it expires.
By following these simple steps, you can save money and get your driving licence without any extra or hidden costs.
Conclusion
If you’re applying for or renewing your driving licence in Karnataka in 2025, you’ll find the fees are fairly modest and clearly listed. There are additional charges for services such as adding a new vehicle class or obtaining an international driving permit. After getting licence you should buy at least a third-party car insurance policy to take your vehicle on the road legally.
If you need help finding the right vehicle insurance, fill out the form on this page, and our experts will help you get the right policy.
FAQ
1. How much does it cost to get a new driving licence in Karnataka in 2025?
The fee for a new driving licence in Karnataka in 2025 is around ₹200. You may also incur a small additional charge for the test or application form.
2. What is the fee for renewing a driving licence in Karnataka?
The renewal fee for a driving licence is about ₹200. If you renew it after the expiration date, you may be required to pay a small fine.
3. How much does an international driving permit cost in Karnataka?
An international driving permit costs around ₹1,000. You can apply for it at your local RTO by submitting the required documents and paying the fee.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. 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.