Scheme Objective:
The Government of Karnataka has launched a Free Driving License and Training Scheme to provide free 4-wheeler (LMV) and Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV) driving training to SC/ST youth. The aim is to empower underprivileged communities with employment-ready skills and promote self-reliance and mobility.
Key Highlights:
- Name of Scheme: Free Driving License and Training for SC/ST
- Launched By: Government of Karnataka
- Departments Involved: Social Welfare, Tribal Welfare & Transport Department
- Platform for Application: Seva Sindhu Portal
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must belong to Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST)
- Age Limit: 18–45 years (LMV), 20+ years (HMV)
- Annual family income below ₹2.5 lakhs
- Must be a resident of Karnataka
- No existing driving license for the chosen category
Documents Required:
- Aadhaar Card
- SC/ST Caste Certificate
- Income Certificate
- SSLC Marks Card
- Residential Proof (Ration Card/Voter ID)
- Passport Size Photo
- Medical Fitness Certificate (for HMV)
- Bank Passbook Copy (if DBT is enabled)
Types of Vehicle Training Offered:
- Light Motor Vehicle (LMV): Cars, vans
- Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV): Buses, trucks (age + medical requirements apply)
Benefits of the Scheme:
- 100% free driving training
- Free issuance of Learner’s and Permanent Driving License
- Covers all costs: training, tests, uniforms (if applicable)
- Certified training by government-approved driving schools
- Increases employability and opportunities in transport/logistics
- Encourages women drivers and self-employment
How to Apply via Seva Sindhu:
- Visit the Seva Sindhu portal
- Search for Free Driving License Training for SC/ST
- Register/Login
- Fill the form and upload all documents
- Submit application
- Track status online
Training Duration:
Related Posts
- LMV: 30–45 days
- HMV: 45–60 days
- Includes theory + practical + simulator + test
Training Includes:
- Traffic rules and signs
- Road safety and emergency handling
- City, reverse, hill, and night driving
- Basic vehicle maintenance
- Real-time test preparation
Monitoring and Certification:
- Scheme monitored by District-level Officers & RTOs
- On successful completion, RTO conducts driving test
- Driving license issued by the Transport Department
Who Gets Priority?
- Unemployed SC/ST youth
- Women applicants
- Orphans, widows
- Differently-abled (eligible based on physical fitness)
Common Reasons for Rejection:
- Wrong/incomplete documents
- Invalid category
- Over age or under age
- Already holding the same type of license
Grievance Redressal:
- Toll-Free Helpline: 1902
- Use Seva Sindhu portal for complaint submission
- Contact local Social Welfare Office or RTO
Employment Opportunities After Training:
- Cab driving (Ola/Uber)
- Goods and transport driving (delivery vans, trucks)
- Work with KSRTC, BMTC, private companies
- Self-employment with personal vehicles
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Is this scheme for OBC? ❌ No. Only SC/ST.
- Can women apply? ✅ Yes, with priority.
- Do I need to pay anything? ❌ No. Everything is free.
- Where will training happen? In govt/private RTO-approved driving schools.
Conclusion:
The Free Driving License and Training Scheme for SC/ST is a vital initiative for social and economic upliftment. It promotes job creation, boosts self-confidence, and helps build a skilled workforce in Karnataka’s transport sector.
