When applying for a driving license in India, different vehicle categories determine the type of license you need. Two commonly confused categories are Motor Cycle with Gear (MCWG) and Light Motor Vehicle (LMV), both issued by the Road Transport Authority. Understanding the difference between these categories is crucial to ensure compliance with traffic regulations and selecting the right car or bike insurance.
Difference between LMV and MCWG driving licences
- The MCWG category refers to motorcycles, bikes and mopeds with gears, including both personal and transport-use vehicles. This means anyone with an MCWG license can legally ride motorcycles of any engine capacity that are equipped with gears.
- The LMV includes small four-wheelers such as cars, jeeps, vans and autorickshaws with a gross vehicle weight no more than 7,500 kg. The LMV license is further divided into LMV-NT (Non-Transport) for private vehicles and LMV-TR (Transport) for commercial use.
- An LMV license does not authorise the holder to ride motorcycles with gears. To legally operate both an LMV and an MCWG, separate endorsements must be obtained on the driving license.
Considering insurance for LMV and MCWG
Whether you are the holder of a LMV or an MCWG driving licence, having valid insurance is mandatory under Indian motor laws. Choosing the right bike or car insurance plan ensures financial protection against unforeseen accidents and legal compliance. For a hassle-free riding or driving experience, make sure to compare policies based on coverage, premium, and claim settlement ratios to get the best plan suited to your vehicle type.
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 It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products.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 ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.