LMV in a driving licence stands for Light Motor Vehicle. It is one of the most common vehicle categories for personal and commercial use in India. Holding an LMV licence allows you to legally drive small vehicles such as cars, jeeps, and vans.
An LMV licence is important because:
- It serves as legal proof of your ability to drive light vehicles.
- It allows you to drive personal or family vehicles legally on Indian roads.
- It is required before you can upgrade to higher vehicle categories.
- It helps in insurance, renting vehicles, and other legal formalities.
LMV Driving Licence Full Form and Meaning Explained via Parivahan
Full Form: LMV = Light Motor Vehicle
Meaning: An LMV licence is issued to drivers who wish to operate vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tons, including:
- Cars
- Jeeps
- Vans
- Taxis (non-commercial or limited commercial use)
The licence is issued by the RTO through Parivahan Sarathi, ensuring the holder is trained and eligible to drive light vehicles safely.
How to Apply for an LMV Driving Licence Through Parivahan Portal
You can apply for an LMV driving licence online using the official Parivahan Sarathi portal. The online process reduces paperwork and allows scheduling of your driving test conveniently.
Steps to apply:
- Visit the Parivahan Sarathi Portal.
- Select your state and RTO.
- Click on “Apply for Driving Licence” → choose LMV Licence.
- Fill in your personal details, including name, date of birth, and address.
- Upload the required documents (proof of age, address, photos).
- Pay the LMV driving licence fees online.
- Book a driving test slot at the nearest RTO.
- Appear for the test on the scheduled date.
- Upon passing, your LMV driving licence will be issued or dispatched.
LMV Driving Licence Fees: Everything You Need to Know on Parivahan
The LMV driving licence fees vary depending on the type of vehicle and test required:
- Application form fee: ₹200
- Driving test fee: ₹300–₹500
- Smart card / licence printing: ₹200
- Total LMV licence fees: approximately ₹500–₹900
Fees are payable online through Parivahan portal or at the RTO office.
What Vehicles Can an LMV Licence Holder Drive?
An LMV licence allows you to drive light vehicles. These include:
- Cars (Petrol/Diesel)
- Jeeps and Vans
- Small commercial vehicles (non-heavy)
- Taxis and small passenger vehicles (depending on state rules)
It does not permit driving heavy commercial vehicles or motorcycles above 50cc (MCWG).
Can an LMV Licence Holder Drive a Transport Vehicle?
Generally, LMV licence holders cannot drive large transport vehicles. However, some LMV licences may allow limited commercial driving under certain conditions.
- Taxis or small vans may be permitted.
- Heavy goods vehicles require HMV (Heavy Motor Vehicle) licence.
- Transport vehicle driving requires additional RTO authorization.
LMV vs MCWG in Driving Licence: What’s the Difference?
- LMV (Light Motor Vehicle): Cars, jeeps, vans, small commercial vehicles.
- MCWG (Motorcycle With Gear): Two-wheelers above 50cc with gear system.
Key differences:
| Feature | LMV | MCWG |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Cars, vans | Motorcycles with gear |
| Licence requirement | LMV driving licence | MCWG licence |
| Age requirement | 18+ | 16+ |
| Test required | RTO driving test | Motorcycle riding test |
What Does LMV Mean in Driving Licence?
LMV stands for Light Motor Vehicle, signifying the holder is licensed to drive light motorized vehicles such as personal cars, jeeps, and vans.
- It is a common category for private vehicles.
- Serves as the first step before applying for commercial or heavy vehicle licences.
How to Apply for LMV Driving Licence via Parivahan
You can apply for LMV licence online or offline:
Online:
- Visit Parivahan Sarathi
- Select LMV licence
- Fill the application, upload documents, pay fees, and book test slot
Offline:
- Visit your local RTO
- Fill Form 4 or applicable RTO form
- Submit documents and fees
- Schedule and appear for the LMV driving test
LMV Driving Licence Application Process on Parivahan: Step-by-Step Guide
- Check eligibility: Age ≥18, valid ID and address proof.
- Apply for learning licence (if not already done).
- Fill LMV licence application on Parivahan portal.
- Upload documents: Aadhaar, proof of age, photos.
- Pay fees online or offline.
- Book driving test at nearest RTO.
- Appear for LMV driving test and clear it.
- Track LMV driving licence status online via Parivahan.
- Receive licence: Either download PDF or receive smart card.
Documents Required to Apply for LMV Driving Licence on Parivahan
- Learner Licence (if applicable)
- Proof of Age: Birth Certificate / Aadhaar / Passport / PAN
- Proof of Address: Aadhaar / Utility Bill / Voter ID
- Passport-sized photographs
- Application fee payment receipt
How to Get an LMV Licence and Start Driving Your Vehicle via Parivahan
Once you pass the driving test:
- Your LMV driving licence status shows “approved”.
- You can download the licence PDF via Parivahan or mParivahan.
- Carry the licence while driving as mandatory legal proof.
What Is the Role of an LMV Licence Holder in Driving Commercial Vehicles?
- LMV licence holders can drive small transport vehicles like passenger vans, taxis (depending on local RTO rules).
- For heavy commercial vehicles, holders need an HMV licence.
- LMV ensures drivers have basic driving training and legal clearance to operate light vehicles.
FAQ
Q1: What is LMV in driving licence?
LMV means Light Motor Vehicle, a category for small cars, vans, and personal vehicles.
Q2: What is the age requirement for LMV licence?
Minimum 18 years for cars and light vehicles.
Q3: How to apply for LMV driving licence online?
Apply via Parivahan Sarathi portal, upload documents, pay fees, and book driving test.
Q4: What documents are needed for LMV licence?
Learning licence, Aadhaar, proof of age and address, passport-sized photos, and fee receipt.
Q5: Can LMV licence holder drive a transport vehicle?
Yes, small commercial vehicles or taxis may be allowed depending on RTO rules.
Q6: Difference between LMV and MCWG?
LMV is for cars/vans; MCWG is for motorcycles with gears above 50cc.