You cannot apply for a full driving licence in Pakistan without a learner permit first. The good news is that in some provinces you can now get one from your phone. This guide explains how to get a learner driving licence online, which province lets you do it fully online, and what to expect in the rest of the country.
What Is a Learner Permit?
A learner permit lets you practise driving before you take the test for a full licence. It is normally valid for six months. It does not allow you to drive alone. A licensed adult must sit with you while you practise. After a waiting period, you can book your driving test.
Where Can You Apply Online?
Driving licences are handled by provincial systems, so the steps and fees depend on where you live.
| Province or Area | How Much Can You Do Online? | Learner Fee | Wait Before Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Punjab | The whole learner process, from application to printing the permit | Rs. 500 per category | About 42 days |
| Khyber Pakhtunkhwa | Only the fee voucher. The permit itself needs a visit to the licence branch | Rs. 1,000, per a recent guide | 45 days |
| Sindh | Online application or appointment systems exist. Check the current steps for your city | Check the current fee | Check with the office |
| Islamabad | Islamabad Traffic Police has its own licensing system. Check which steps are online | Check the current fee | Check with the office |
Punjab is the only place where the guides I checked describe the learner stage as fully online.
How to Get a Learner Licence Online in Punjab
Punjab’s licence system, DLIMS, now runs under the Dastak platform.
What You Need
- A clear photo of your face
- A picture of the front of your CNIC
- A picture of the back of your CNIC
- A medical certificate signed by a government doctor, if you are over 50
- A way to pay a PSID, such as online banking, mobile banking, or an ATM
Step by Step
- Go to the official portal at dlims.punjab.gov.pk, or find the licence service on the Dastak platform.
- Create an account, or log in if you already have one.
- Open the License menu and choose New Learner.
- Pick your vehicle category, such as motorcycle or car.
- Fill in the form with your personal details.
- Upload your photo and CNIC pictures.
- Generate a PSID and pay the fee.
- After payment is confirmed, download and print your learner permit.
Guides say the permit is issued right after payment, and a digital copy appears in your account.
Learner Licence Fee in Punjab
The fee is Rs. 500 per category. If you apply for both a motorcycle and a car, the total is Rs. 1,000. Use only the official portal. A guide from August 2026 warns people to avoid any site that asks for an extra “processing” fee.
What If You Live in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa?
A recent KP guide says you can generate the fee voucher online, check a licence by CNIC, and download an e-copy of a licence. But you cannot get the learner permit, take the test, or collect the card online. Those need a visit to the licence branch. The same guide lists the learner fee as Rs. 1,000 and a 45-day wait before the test.
What If You Live in Sindh or Islamabad?
Sindh and Islamabad each have their own licensing systems, and the portals and links change. Guides even list different web addresses for Sindh. Start from your provincial police or traffic police website, and look for the licence or learner permit section. If you cannot find an online option, visit the licensing office with your CNIC and photos.
What Comes After the Learner Permit?
- Practise driving with a licensed adult beside you.
- Wait until the minimum period is over (about 42 days in Punjab, 45 in KP).
- Book your driving test.
- Pass the test and pay the licence fee to get your full licence.
A licence from one province is valid across Pakistan.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uploading a blurry CNIC picture or a dark photo
- Forgetting the medical certificate when you are over 50
- Paying through an unofficial website or agent
- Letting the permit expire before the test
- Driving alone with only a learner permit
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a learner licence completely online?
In Punjab, yes. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, only the fee voucher is online, so you still need to visit the licence branch.
How much is the learner licence fee in Punjab?
Rs. 500 per vehicle category.
How long is a learner permit valid?
Normally six months.
How soon can I take the driving test?
The guides I checked say about 42 days in Punjab and 45 days in KP.
What if my learner permit expires?
Apply again or renew it. In Punjab, one guide says you can renew through your DLIMS account by paying a new PSID.
Getting a learner driving licence online is quickest in Punjab, where you can finish everything from your phone. Elsewhere, use the online steps that exist, and keep your documents ready for the licensing office.
