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How to Get a Driving License
First-time applicants and renewals. Covers learner's permit, the driving test, and what to bring to the District Transport Office.
Driving License⏱ Half day (tests + processing)💰 PKR 200–900
- Original CNIC
- CNIC photocopy (front and back)
- Medical fitness certificate (from a registered doctor — many DTO offices have a doctor on site)
- Learner's license if upgrading to permanent (must have held it for at least 6 weeks)
- 2–4 passport-size photographs
- Fee payment receipt
1
Get a medical fitness certificate
You need a certificate from a registered doctor confirming you are physically fit to drive. Many District Transport Offices (DTO) have a doctor on premises — you can get it done there on the same day for a small fee (PKR 100–200).
2
Visit your local DTO office
Go to the District Transport Office in your city. Find it using the Driving License category on the Search page. Bring all documents. Offices generally open at 9 AM.
3
Submit documents and pay the fee
For a learner's license: PKR 200. For a permanent license: PKR 900 (5 years). Pay at the fee window and get a receipt.
4
Written test (for new learner's license)
If you're applying for a learner's license for the first time, you'll take a short written/verbal road rules test. It covers basic traffic signs and rules. It's not difficult — read up on Pakistan's traffic rules beforehand.
5
Driving test (for permanent license)
If you've completed your 6-week learner's period and are applying for a permanent license, you'll take a practical driving test in the DTO's test area. The tester checks basic control, parking, and following road signs.
6
Collect your license
If approved, a temporary paper license may be issued on the same day. The smart card (Smart Driving License) is printed and delivered — collection times vary by city, usually 1–2 weeks.
- Hold your learner's license for at least 6 weeks before applying for the permanent — they check the issue date
- Practice reversing and parking — the DTO test often includes these
- Arrive early; DTO offices process a limited number of applicants per day
- The doctor on site is usually faster and cheaper than going to a separate clinic
- Smart license cards are now issued via Punjab IT Board / DGTO — ask the DTO about collection
Can I drive with a learner's license alone?
No. A learner's license requires you to be accompanied by a licensed driver at all times while driving.
My license expired. Do I need to retake the test?
Usually not if it expired recently. Visit the DTO with your expired license and CNIC — in most cases it's a simple renewal without retesting.
Can I get a license for multiple vehicle types?
Yes. You can apply for separate categories — motorcycle, car, heavy vehicle — each requiring its own test and fee.
Is there an age requirement?
Yes. Minimum age is 18 for a car license and 16 for a motorcycle license in most provinces.
Last updated: 2026-03-20. Requirements and fees can change — always verify with the official office before visiting.