Driving without a proper license on Karachi’s streets and roads constitutes a significant offense. Despite this, many underage individuals are frequently observed driving without the required permit, posing a considerable risk to themselves and others. Obtaining a driving license in Karachi isn’t just a matter of convenience; it’s essential for maintaining a trouble-free life, avoiding detention or substantial fines in case of being caught without a valid permit.
Eligibility for Applying for a Driving License in Karachi
Before taking control of a vehicle, it’s crucial to address this vital query. If you’re over 18 and possess your Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC), you’re eligible to apply for a driving license in Karachi. Let’s delve into key aspects you should understand when seeking a driving license in this city.
Driving License Offices in Karachi
There are four driving license issuance centers in Karachi, and these centers play a crucial role in providing driving licenses to the city’s residents. Three of these centers are situated within the city’s vicinity, while the fourth one, located in Baldia Town, is more accessible for individuals residing in the outskirts of Karachi. Here are the names and addresses of these centers:
Clifton Branch: Situated at 5th Zamzama St, Neelam Colony (Close to Do Talwar and Mohatta Palace)
Korangi Branch: Located in Sector 6A, main causeway, Korangi
Nazimabad Branch: Found at Nawab Siddique Ali Khan Rd, A-9 Block 4 D/3
Baldia Town Branch: Positioned at Traffic Training Institute Baldia Town, Saeedabad (Near Hub Chowki)
Branch Timings:
Monday to Saturday: 9am till 4pm
Friday: 9am till 12.30pm
Lunch hours: 1:00pm till 1.30pm everyday (except Friday)
All the license centres in Karachi mentioned above have the same timings.
Types of Driving License in Karachi
The Driving License department in Sindh is responsible for the issuance of driving license in Karachi. According to the traffic laws of Pakistan, people can apply for the three types of driving permits in Karachi that are listed as follows:
Learner’s Driving License
Permanent Driving License
International Driving Permit
Learner’s Driving License
To obtain a learner’s permit, you need to apply before getting a driver’s license. With this permit, you can drive on public roads under close supervision from a licensed individual. Getting a learner’s permit is straightforward—make sure you bring all the required paperwork when you apply.
Validity, Age Limit, Fee Structure & Required Documentation
One Year Validity
CNIC and 4 passport-size photos
A ticket of Rs. 60 from any post office
Fee for Motorcycle: PKR 50 / for Car: PKR 100 / Combined: PKR 150
Motorcycle/Motorcar: 18 years
LTV (rikshaw, taxi, tractor): 21 years
The learner permit is valid for 6 months.
Permanent Driving License
After holding a learner’s license for 42 days, you can apply for a permanent driving license. Responsible driving is crucial throughout this period as any legal trouble can affect future steps. To obtain a permanent driving license in Karachi, you’ll need to complete specific tests, which we’ll detail shortly.
Written, Eyesight and Driving Tests
First, you’ll take a written test to evaluate your knowledge of civic and traffic laws in the city. Following that, medical examiners at license centers in Karachi will conduct an eyesight test.
Once you pass both tests, you must drive a car, preferably your own. A helpful tip is to make short turns and park accurately within designated zones. Practice beforehand as it’s essential for the test.
After successfully completing these tests, you’ll receive a receipt and will be required to wait a week for your license to be mailed to you.
Validity, Fees and Required Documents for Permanent License
3-5 Years of Validity
Fee for Car: PKR 960 for 3 Years / PKR 1,260 for 5 Years
Fee for Motorcycle: PKR 510 for 3 Years / PKR 660 for 5 Years
Fee for Car and Motorcycle (combined): PKR 1,410 for 3 Years / PKR 1,860 for 5 Years
CNIC and 4 passport size photos are the required documents
International Driving Permit
Those planning to take a vacation or study abroad and want to drive their own vehicle there, an International Driving License in Pakistan is a must. Almost all the driving license centers in Karachi can provide you with an International Driving Permit. You will need to fulfill the following requirements, though.
Required Documentation & Fee
International license application form
Attested copy of CNIC
Copy of a valid driving license
Copy of a valid Pakistani passport
2 attested photographs (passport size)
PKR 66 court fee ticket
Note: Applicant must also bring his/her original CNIC, driving license and passport.
Categories of Driving License and Fee
Driving licenses are divided into the following categories.
Motorcar/jeep: licenses issued for non-commercial cars
LTV: Licenses issued for light transport vehicles that are valid for commercial taxis, jeeps, minibuses etc.
HTV: Licenses valid for heavy-weight transport, for example, buses, trucks, trailers, cranes etc.
MCR: Licenses valid for motorcycle rickshaws (these are not valid for cars)
Motorcycle: Licenses valid for motorcycles
PSV: Licenses for public service vehicles and taxis
Category
Learner New
Permanent DL (3 Year)
Permanent DL (5 Year)
Renewal in 30 days (3 Year)
Renewal in 30 days (5 Year)
Renewal after 30 days (3 Year)
Renewal after 30 days (5 Year)
Motorcycle
50
510
660
310
460
435
660
Car
100
960
1260
560
860
860
1260
Car + Motorcycle
150
1410
1860
810
1260
1185
1860
MCR
100
960
1260
560
860
810
1260
MCR + Motorcycle
150
1350
1800
750
1600
1125
1800
LTV
100
960
1260
560
860
810
1260
LTV + Motorcycle
150
1410
1860
810
1260
1185
1860
HTV
100
–
–
750
1200
1500
1800
Endorsement+Relevant Category
–
400
400
–
–
–
–
HTV + Motorcycle
150
Nill
–
1060
1660
1560
2460
Online Form and Mobile Application
The Driving License Authority in Sindh has introduced a smartphone application enabling people to access essential options conveniently. This includes license verification, application inquiries, checking license status and history, details about the driving theory test, and locating all license centers in Karachi and Sindh. Applicants for a driver’s license also receive process updates and alerts through SMS service. This covers what you should know before applying for a driving license in Karachi. And if you’re a reader from the federal capital, we’ve got something for you too.
FAQs
Here are some FAQs related to online driving license Sindh.
How can I apply for an online driving license in Sindh?
For an online driving license application in Sindh, go to the official Sindh Police website or the Driving License Issuance and Management System (DLIMS). Complete the online application form, upload necessary documents, and arrange a driving test appointment.
What documents are required for an online driving license application in Sindh?
For an online driving license application in Sindh, you’ll need to provide a copy of your CNIC or B-Form, a medical certificate from an authorized medical practitioner, a learner’s permit if you have one, and two passport-size photographs.
How long does it take to get an online driving license in Sindh?
After you submit the application and finish the necessary tests, the processing time for an online driving license in Sindh can range from approximately 7 to 15 working days to receive the driving license.
Can I renew my driving license online in Sindh?
You can renew your driving license online in Sindh by visiting the DLIMS official website and following the renewal instructions provided. You might be required to submit specific documents like your current driving license, CNIC, and an updated medical certificate.
Can I change my residential address on my driving license online in Sindh?
Certainly, you have the option to update your residential address on your driving license online in Sindh. Access the DLIMS website, choose the address change option, and input the required details along with supporting documents, like proof of residence.
How can I track the status of my online driving license application in Sindh?
For updates on your online driving license application in Sindh, you can check the DLIMS website. Enter your application or reference number, and the system will display the current status of your application.
Can I apply for an international driving permit online in Sindh?
As of now, you can’t apply for an international driving permit (IDP) online in Sindh. To get an IDP, you must go in person to the designated licensing authority and submit the necessary documents.
Is it mandatory to take a driving test for an online driving license in Sindh?
For an online driving license in Sindh, taking a driving test is compulsory. Once you submit your application, you’ll be assigned a test at the specified center. Passing this test is necessary to get your driving license.
What is the validity period of an online driving license in Sindh?
An online driving license in Sindh has varying validity based on its type. Typically, a private vehicle license remains valid for five years, while a commercial vehicle license holds a three-year validity. Renewing your license before it expires is crucial to prevent penalties or legal complications.
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