Traffic police in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad and other cities have become much stricter about licences, and driving without one can now lead to heavy fines or even your vehicle being impounded. The good news is that getting a driving licence Punjab has become easier, with online forms, computerised tests and courier delivery. This guide explains the full journey from learner permit to permanent licence in simple steps.
We cover eligibility, documents, the online learner process on the DLIMS portal, the sign and driving tests, approximate fees, renewal and how to get an international driving permit from Punjab.
Eligibility and licence categories
| Category | Vehicle | Minimum age |
|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle (M/Cycle) | Motorbikes, scooters | 18 years |
| Motor car / jeep | Private cars and jeeps | 18 years |
| LTV | Light transport: vans, small commercial vehicles, rickshaws | 21 years |
| HTV | Heavy transport: trucks, buses | Usually 22+ with prior LTV experience |
| PSV | Public service vehicles | As per category rules |
You need a valid CNIC (or B-form for some processes) and must be medically fit, including good eyesight. Most people apply for both motorcycle and car together to save time.
Documents required
- Original CNIC and photocopies
- Medical certificate from an authorised doctor (eyesight and general fitness), where required
- Passport-size photographs as per the specification shown at the centre (many centres now take a live photo)
- Learner permit (for the permanent licence stage)
- Fee challan or online payment receipt
- For overseas Pakistanis: passport and NICOP, where applicable
Requirements and forms are updated from time to time. Always check the latest list on the official DLIMS portal (dlims.punjab.gov.pk) or at your nearest licensing centre before you go.
Step 1: Get a learner permit (online or at a centre)
Everyone starts with a learner permit (learner licence). In Punjab you can do this in two ways:
Online through DLIMS
- Visit the Punjab Police DLIMS portal and choose the learner permit option.
- Enter your CNIC, mobile number and personal details.
- Select the vehicle category (motorcycle, car or both).
- Pay the fee online and download or print your learner permit as instructed.
At a licensing centre or Khidmat Markaz
- Visit your district driving licence centre or a designated service centre.
- Submit your CNIC and form, pay the fee, and give biometrics and a photo.
- Your learner permit is printed on the spot in most cases.
A learner permit is normally valid for six months. While driving on it, you should have a licensed driver with you and display an “L” sign where required.
Step 2: Practise for at least 6 weeks
You must hold the learner permit for a minimum period, traditionally around six weeks (42 days), before you can apply for a permanent licence. Use this time well:
- Join a registered driving school if you are a complete beginner.
- Practise parking, reversing, hill starts and lane changing in an empty ground first.
- Learn the road signs from the traffic code book or the practice tests available online.
- For motorcycles, practise the “figure 8” and slow balance, which are part of the test.
Step 3: Apply for a permanent driving licence Punjab
After the waiting period, visit the licensing centre with your learner permit and documents. The process usually looks like this:
- Token and document check at the counter.
- Medical or eyesight check, if required.
- Computerised sign/theory test.
- Practical driving test.
- Biometrics, photograph and fee payment.
- Licence printed and either handed over or delivered by courier to your address.
The sign test and driving test
Sign (theory) test
This is a computer-based multiple-choice test on traffic signs, road markings and basic rules such as right of way and speed limits. Practise the official sign list before your test day.
Driving test
- Car: usually includes parking between poles, reversing, a zigzag or “S” track and a short drive on the test track while following signals.
- Motorcycle: usually includes riding a figure-8 track without putting a foot down and controlled turns.
- If you fail, you can retake the test after the period set by the centre.
Approximate fees
Punjab revised its driving licence fees in 2024 and moved to fees charged on a yearly basis for licence validity. Learner permit fees were raised to around Rs 1,000. The figures below are approximate and are only meant to help you plan:
| Item | Approximate fee (PKR) |
|---|---|
| Learner permit | Around Rs 500–1,000 |
| Motorcycle licence | Around Rs 500 per year of validity |
| Car / jeep licence | Around Rs 1,800–2,000 per year of validity |
| LTV / HTV licence | Around Rs 2,000 per year of validity |
| International driving permit | Separate fee, check DLIMS |
Fees are approximate for October 2026 and can change by government notification; confirm the exact amount on the DLIMS portal or at the licensing centre.
International driving permit and renewal
International driving permit (IDP)
If you are going abroad, you can apply for an international driving permit from the Punjab licensing authority. You generally need a valid Punjab driving licence, CNIC, passport (and often a visa or travel document), photographs and the fee. The IDP is used together with your Pakistani licence and is valid for a limited period.
Renewal
Renew your licence before it expires. Renewal usually does not need a new driving test. You can start renewal online through DLIMS or at a licensing centre or service centre with your CNIC and old licence. Late renewal can attract a fine.
Owning a bike? You may also like our guide on electric bikes in Pakistan.
FAQs
Can I apply for a driving licence Punjab online?
Yes, you can apply for a learner permit and start several services online through DLIMS, but the permanent licence still needs you to appear for tests and biometrics.
How long does it take to get a permanent licence?
At least six weeks after getting your learner permit, plus a few days to a few weeks for printing and delivery.
How can I verify my driving licence?
Enter your CNIC and licence details on the DLIMS verification page to see the licence status.
Can I drive on a learner permit alone?
No. A learner should drive with a licensed driver and follow the learner rules.
What happens if I fail the driving test?
You can retake it after the waiting period given by the centre. Practise the specific manoeuvre you failed.
We hope this step-by-step guide makes getting your licence easier. If you have recently applied in your city, share your experience and waiting time in the comments to help other readers.