How to Apply for Heavy Vehicle Licence

In India, possessing a driving license is a legal requirement for driving on public roads. Acquiring a driving license entails following a prescribed procedure. It's important to ascertain the category to which your vehicle belongs before initiating the application process.

Updated On - 06 Sep 2025

Securing a heavy motor vehicle license in India is an essential prerequisite for those intending to operate commercial vehicles. This license not only ensures adherence to legal mandates but also prioritises road safety. This detailed handbook will delve into the procedure for obtaining a heavy motor vehicle license in India, encompassing eligibility criteria, essential documentation, and the sequential steps to obtain this license successfully.

What Constitutes a Heavy Motor Vehicle License

A Heavy Motor Vehicle License is an official authorisation allowing individuals to operate commercial vehicles within specific weight and category parameters. This license is issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in India and is mandatory for those intending to drive heavy vehicles for commercial use. It acts as validation that the licensee has fulfilled the essential criteria, demonstrating the requisite expertise and understanding needed to responsibly and safely handle heavy motor vehicles. 

Heavy Goods Motor Vehicles (HGMVs) encompass trucks, lorries, garbage hauliers, and similar heavy-duty vehicles commonly employed for commercial purposes. Operating these vehicles demands a distinct skill set compared to standard vehicles due to their size and weight. Driving HGMVs necessitates heightened efficiency and attentiveness as they pose increased risks while on the road.

Heavy Vehicle Categories for Licensing

The list of vehicle categories is as follows:

Vehicle Type

Licence class

Commercial purpose vehicles having All India Permit to carry passengers.

HPMV

Heavy vehicles used to carry goods.

HGMV

With and without gear motorcycles.

MCWG

With gear vehicles having engine capacity 50cc or more.

MC EX50cc

Without gear vehicles like mopeds and scooters.

FGV

Vehicles having engine capacity 50cc or less.

MC 50cc

Non-transport class vehicles like cars.

LMV-NT

Eligibility Criteria for HGMV

  1. The minimum required age to apply for this licence is 20 years.
  2. The applicant should have sound mental and physical health.
  3. The applicant should complete his training from government-authorised or affiliated motor training school.
  4. The applicant should have a valid learner's licence.

Documents Required for HGMV License

  1. Residential proof: Ration card, electricity bill etc.
  2. Identity proof: Aadhaar card, PAN card, etc.
  3. Age proof: 10th passing certificate, birth certificate, etc.
  4. Duly signed application form.

Steps to Apply for a HGMV Driving Licence Online

Step 1: Visit parivahan.gov

Step 2: Keep the cursor on 'Online Services' and select 'Driving Licence Related Services'.

Step 3: Select the state in which you wish to apply from the drop-down menu.

Step 4: Click on 'Apply for Driving Licence'.

Step 5: Click on 'Continue'.

Step 6: Fill in your "Learning License Number" & "Date of Birth" to proceed further.

Step 7: Enter details in the application form and add for which category you need a licence.

Step 8: Click on 'Next'.

Step 9: Visit the RTO as per schedule.

Steps to Apply for a HGMV Driving Licence Offline

Step 1: Visit the nearest RTO office and procure the requisite forms.

Step 2: Fill out the forms and attach self-attested photocopies of all necessary documents. Ensure they are securely affixed to the form. Additionally, carry the original documents with you.

Step 3: Upon submission of the form and documents, you'll receive an acknowledgement number. You'll also receive a notification on your provided mobile number. Subsequently, you'll be notified of the dates for your driving test.

How to Apply for Additional Class of Vehicles?

Step 1: Visit the official website

Step 2: Keep the cursor on 'Online Services' and select 'Driving Licence Related Services'.

Step 3: Select the concerned state from the drop-down menu.

Step 4: Click on 'Services on Driver’s License (Renewal/Duplicate/Additional Endorsement of Driving Licence/Others)' from the 'Driving License' menu

Step 5: Click on ‘Continue'.

Step 6: Fill in the ‘Driver’s License number' and "Date of birth’ and 'Get Drivers License Details'.

Step 7: Enter details in the Application Form.

Step 8: Book an appointment.

Types of Heavy Motor Vehicle Licenses

In India, various types of heavy motor vehicle licenses are available, categorised based on the vehicles' weight and purpose. These licenses authorise individuals to operate specific commercial vehicles. Here are some common types of heavy motor vehicle licenses:

  1. Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) License: This license category is for individuals intending to operate heavy goods vehicles commercially. It encompasses vehicles such as trucks, trailers, tankers, and other goods carriers. HGV licenses are necessary for transporting goods over long distances or within the country.
  2. Heavy Passenger Vehicle (HPV) License: The HPV license is essential for individuals interested in driving heavy passenger vehicles. It covers vehicles like minibuses, buses, and coaches used for public transportation or private hire. Obtaining an HPV license is vital for those employed in the public transport sector.
  3. Heavy Construction Equipment (HCE) License: This license category focuses on operating heavy construction equipment utilised in the construction industry. It includes vehicles like excavators, cranes, bulldozers, loaders, and concrete mixers. Individuals engaged in construction, infrastructure development, or related fields require an HCE license to operate such equipment.
  4. Heavy Special Vehicle (HSV) License: The HSV license is for individuals operating specialised heavy vehicles that do not fall under the HGV, HCE, or HPV categories. It may include vehicles like fire trucks, mobile cranes, emergency response vehicles, and other specialised heavy-duty vehicles.

FAQs on How to Apply for Heavy Vehicle Licence

  • What is the full form of HGMV?

    HGMV full form is a Heavy Goods Motor Vehicle.

  • What are the different types of heavy-duty vehicles available in India?

    Heavy-duty vehicles are those that are designed to carry heavy loads. They come in different types and each type has its own set of features and specifications. The three main types of heavy-duty vehicles available in India are buses, trucks, and tractors.

  • What are the advantages of using heavy-duty vehicles?

    Heavy-duty vehicles can carry heavy loads with ease also have a long lifespan and require less maintenance than other types of vehicles.

  • Is it possible to book two driving test slots for two class of vehicles?

    Yes, you can book driving test slots on different dates for two vehicle categories.

  • What are the disadvantages of using heavy-duty vehicles?

    The disadvantages of using heavy duty-vehicles are that they are expensive to purchase and maintain, they consume more fuel and they emit more greenhouse gases than smaller vehicles.

  • Who uses heavy-duty vehicles in India?

    Heavy-duty vehicles are used in the construction industry to carry building materials and to transport heavy equipment. Mining companies use them to transport materials from mining sites to processing plants or ports.

  • Is it possible to book two driving test slots for two classes of vehicles?

    Yes, you can book driving test slots on different date for two vehicle categories.

  • I cleared the driving test for multiple vehicle categories but received licence only for one. What should I do?

    In such case, contact the RTO at which you made an application.

  • Is it possible to directly apply for a heavy motor vehicle licence, or is obtaining a Learner's Licence mandatory beforehand?

    A Learner's Licence (LL) is a prerequisite for applying for a heavy motor vehicle licence, requiring possession for a minimum of 30 days. The LL permits individuals to practice driving under supervision before taking the driving test.

  • What is the duration of validity for a heavy motor vehicle licence in India?

    Typically, a heavy motor vehicle licence in India remains valid for three years from its date of issuance.

  • Can a heavy motor vehicle licence be renewed after its expiration?

    Yes, it is possible to renew a heavy motor vehicle licence after it expires. However, additional fees may apply for delays in renewal. The renewal process generally involves submitting an application, paying the prescribed fee, and presenting an updated medical certificate.

  • What are the expenses involved in obtaining a heavy motor vehicle licence in India?

    The costs associated with obtaining a heavy motor vehicle licence vary based on the state and the vehicle category. For precise fee details, individuals should refer to the respective Regional Transport Office (RTO) in their jurisdiction.

  • What are the different types of heavy motor vehicle licenses available in India?

    Heavy motor vehicle licenses include HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle), HPV (Heavy Passenger Vehicle), HCE (Heavy Construction Equipment), and HSV (Heavy Special Vehicle).

  • How can I apply for a heavy motor vehicle license offline?

    Visit your nearest RTO, fill out the required forms, attach self-attested documents (and carry originals), and submit them. You'll receive an acknowledgement number and later be informed about the driving test date.

  • What is the Heavy Goods Motor Vehicle (HGMV) license, and what vehicles does it cover?

    The HGMV license covers heavy commercial vehicles like trucks, lorries, and garbage hauliers used for transport and logistics.

  • What are the eligibility criteria for obtaining an HGMV license in India?

    You must be at least 20 years old, physically and mentally fit, have a learner’s license, and complete training from a government-authorised motor training school.

  • What documents are required to apply for a heavy motor vehicle license in India?

    You need identity and address proof, educational certificates, medical fitness certificate, passport photos, training completion proof, and a valid learner’s license.

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