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Comprehending the categories of driving licenses in India is essential when it comes to the LMV. (LMV full form is Light Motor Vehicle). Whether you are a new driver or a person renewing your driving permit, it is necessary to know what LMV means in a driving license and the vehicles to which it applies.
This blog post elucidates everything from LMV in driving licence categories to eligibility criteria, the application process, and its scope in personal and commercial driving.
The LMV full form is Light Motor Vehicle, which is a section that encompasses cars, jeeps, vans, and any other light four-wheelers with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of no more than 7,500 kg. This classification is contained in the Indian Motor Vehicles Act.
Light Motor Vehicles are an alternative means of transport for personal or small-scale business use. To be able to drive these vehicles in India, an individual has to obtain an LMV driving license that is authorized by the Regional Transport Office (RTO).
Based on their intended use, LMV vehicles are often divided into two categories:
● LMV-NT (Non-Transport): This is the standard category used mainly for the purpose of personal use. The vehicles that fall under this category include hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, and MPVs as personal units for commuting.
● LMV-TR (Transport): This category permits the use of commercial vehicles utilized in the transportation of cargo or passengers. It is inclusive of taxis, delivery vans, and other light goods carriers.
Choosing the right category (LMV-NT or LMV-TR) depends on whether the vehicle is for personal use or professional driving.
An LMV driving license in India is a license officially given by the RTO, which allows the person to operate under the Light Motor Vehicle category. It functions not only as a legal authorization but also as an identity document.
If you have ever thought of what LMV means in driving license, the answer lies in your driving privileges, which means you can drive either a private or light commercial vehicle, depending on the license type that is issued to you.
India has a wide array of light motor vehicle (LMV) driving licenses, and each of them has its unique eligibility. The types of light motor vehicles include:
This type of LMV driving licence is for people who want to use it for personal vehicles, mostly hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, and MPVs.
With this kind of driving permit, individuals can legally drive non-transport light motor vehicles.
Meant for commercial vehicle drivers, this licence allows the holder to drive light goods vehicles, delivery vans, or commercial taxis under 7,500 kg. It is a category of the transport section.
LMV Gearless Licence:
Reserved for gearless or automatic vehicles only, which are included in the LMV class, like electric rickshaws or some electric cars.
This is a specific LMV driving licence for operating three-wheeled light vehicles, such as auto-rickshaws, both for private and short commercial use.
A license to drive agricultural or industrial tractors under 7,500 kg GVW. It is a significant license in rural areas where tractor operation is a commonly seen thing.
This specific license is needed while operating an LMV used to carry goods of the hazardous type. The formal approval is given after a person has passed the required training.
Such LMV driving licences ensure drivers are authorized to operate vehicles based on their specific type and intended use.
You must fulfil the following qualifying requirements in order to apply for an LMV in driving license in India:
● You must be at least eighteen years old.
● Must possess a current LMV learner's license.
● Must be medically fit, particularly for commercial (LMV-TR) licenses.
● Must successfully complete the RTO's LMV driving exam.
Below is a list of necessary documents for obtaining an LMV in driving licence:
● Duly filled out Form 2 (application form).
● Age proof (Aadhaar card, birth certificate, etc.).
● Address proof (passport, utility bills, voter ID, etc.).
● Learner’s Licence copy.
● Passport-size photographs.
● Medical certificate (Form 1A for commercial licences).
● Application fee receipt.
It is necessary for every driver to understand various license categories and eligibility requirements.
Whether you are applying for an LMV-NT or an LMV-TR, having the right licence not only benefits you but also ensures you are legally permitted to drive your vehicle with confidence. Once you obtain your LMV driving license, don't forget to take care of your vehicle by getting the right car insurance.
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The LMV includes vehicles such as hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, MPVs, delivery vans, auto-rickshaws, and some light cargo vehicles as long as their weight is below the 7,500 kg mark.
Yes, you can legally drive a personal car with the LMV-NT license, and this is the most common type of LMV driving license.
A commercial vehicle can only be driven by the holder of an LMV-TR license. An LMV-NT license is not allowed to be used for commercial purposes.
Yes, SUVs and MPVs are covered by an LMV-NT license as long as the vehicle is for private use and weighs less than 7,500 kg.
Yes, as long as they fit into the LMV category, vehicles with manual and automatic transmissions are covered by the LMV driving license.
To add or change a vehicle class (e.g., LMV-NT to LMV-TR), visit the Parivahan Sewa Portal and apply under "Addition of Class of Vehicle." Fill out the form, upload documents, book your driving test slot, and pay the fee. Appear for the test at the RTO. Once you pass, your licence will be updated accordingly.