How to Add Car (LMV) to Motorcycle Driving License in India: Parivahan Sarathi COV Endorsement Guide
Hold a two-wheeler bike driving license (MCWG) and want to drive a car? Learn how to endorse Class of Vehicle (LMV) on Parivahan Sarathi without a new license number.
To add a car (Light Motor Vehicle - LMV) to your existing two-wheeler motorcycle driving license (MCWG), submit an Endorsement of Class of Vehicle (COV) application on Parivahan Sarathi, secure an LMV Learner's License, and pass the car practical driving test.
Class of Vehicle (COV) Endorsement
Adding Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) authorization to an existing motorcycle credential under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules without changing your permanent DL number
One License, Multiple Vehicle Categories
Many motorists in India obtain a two-wheeler Motorcycle with Gear (MCWG) license in college or early adulthood. When they purchase a car later, they often mistakenly believe they must apply for an entirely new driving license. Under the Motor Vehicles Act, holding multiple driving licenses is illegal. Instead, the Parivahan portal allows you to add the Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) class directly to your existing permanent driving credential through a process called Endorsement of Class of Vehicle (COV).
Step-by-Step Online Application Workflow on Parivahan Sarathi
1. Apply for LMV Learner's License (COV): Visit the Parivahan Sarathi portal, choose your state, select 'Apply for Learner License', enter your existing Driving License number and date of birth, and select 'Light Motor Vehicle (LMV)' as the new class.
2. Upload Documents & Pay Fee: Upload your existing DL copy, Aadhaar verification, and pay the state statutory fees (typically ₹200 to ₹500 depending on state schedules).
3. Observe the 30-Day Practice Period: Practice driving with an authorized instructor or companion holding a valid LMV license, displaying 'L' plates front and rear.
4. Book the Practical Track Test: After 30 days, book an automated driving test track (ADTT) slot on Sarathi, bring a roadworthy car with valid insurance and PUCC, and clear the 'H' track, parallel parking, and gradient ramp tests.
Final Smart Card Dispatch & Digital Verification
Once the Motor Vehicles Inspector approves your practical test, the RTO prints an updated smart card with both MCWG and LMV categories. The updated digital license reflects instantly in DigiLocker and mParivahan. Keep all your vehicle and licensing documents digitally linked inside DownShift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I receive a completely new Driving License number when adding LMV?
No. Under the national Sarathi database, every citizen is entitled to only one unique permanent Driving License number. Adding LMV updates the endorsement category on your existing card, listing both MCWG and LMV under your current number.
Do I have to retake the computerized traffic theory test if I already hold a bike license?
In most Indian states, because you already passed the statutory road rules and traffic signals computer test when earning your two-wheeler license, you are exempt from the computer test. You only need to obtain the LMV Learner's License and take the physical four-wheeler driving test.
What is the mandatory waiting period before booking the car driving test?
Under Central Motor Vehicles Rules, you must hold the LMV Learner's License for a minimum of 30 days before taking the practical driving track test, with the Learner's License remaining valid for up to 6 months.
How does DownShift keep your legal paperwork compliant?
DownShift's encrypted Document Vault securely organizes your Driving License, Registration Certificate, and insurance paperwork, sending timely expiry reminders so your documents are always valid and accessible on your smartphone.
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