Getting a Driving Licence

Rahul applies for his driving licence, taking lessons, practising for the test, and finally passing his driving test at the RTO.

Meanings in Rahul, Driving instructor, RTO officer

Key words and phrases

driving licencean official document permitting a person to driveHe got his driving licence at eighteen.

learner's licencea temporary licence for someone learning to driveHe first got a learner's licence for six months.

driving testan official test to check driving skillsHe passed his driving test on the first attempt.

RTOthe Regional Transport Office that issues licencesHe visited the RTO to submit his documents.

traffic ruleslaws that govern behaviour on the roadKnowing traffic rules is essential before driving.

parallel parkingthe skill of parking a vehicle between two others in a lineParallel parking was the trickiest part of the test.

driving instructora person who teaches others to driveHis driving instructor was very patient.

signala hand or light indication showing driving intentionAlways give a signal before turning.

renewto extend the validity of a licence or documentHe needs to renew his licence next year.

validlegally acceptable and in forceHis licence is valid for twenty years.

eyesight testa test to check vision before granting a licenceHe passed the eyesight test easily.

seatbelta strap that secures a person in a vehicle seatAlways wear your seatbelt while driving.

zebra crossinga marked pedestrian crossing on the roadStop the car at the zebra crossing for pedestrians.

u-turnturning a vehicle to face the opposite directionTaking a u-turn here is not allowed.

smart carda plastic card with an embedded chip, like a modern licenceThe new licence comes as a smart card.

duplicate licencea replacement copy issued for a lost or damaged licenceHe applied for a duplicate licence after losing his wallet.

speed limitthe maximum legal speed allowed on a roadDon't cross the speed limit in the city.

helmetprotective headgear worn by two-wheeler ridersWearing a helmet is compulsory for riders.

lanea marked section of road for a single line of trafficStay in your lane while overtaking.

finemoney paid as a penalty for breaking traffic rulesHe had to pay a fine for not wearing a helmet.

Useful sentences

Ask How do I apply for a learner's licence?
Answer You can apply online and book a slot at the RTO.
Ask What does the driving test include?
Answer It includes basic manoeuvres and parallel parking.
Ask How long is the driving licence valid?
Answer It's valid for twenty years in most cases.
Ask Do I need to know traffic rules for the test?
Answer Yes, there's a small written test on traffic rules too.
Ask When should I renew my licence?
Answer You should renew it before it expires.
Ask Is an eyesight test required for the licence?
Answer Yes, you must pass a basic eyesight test.
Ask What happens if I don't wear a helmet?
Answer You'll be stopped by the traffic police and fined.
Ask Can I take a u-turn at this junction?
Answer No, u-turns are not allowed here during peak hours.
Ask What should I do if I lose my licence?
Answer You should apply for a duplicate licence at the RTO.
Ask Is the new licence a smart card?
Answer Yes, it has a chip with all your details.

Dialogue

RahulI want to apply for my driving licence. Where do I start?

Driving InstructorFirst, you'll need a learner's licence, then take a few lessons with me.

RahulOkay. What should I practise the most?

Driving InstructorParallel parking and giving proper signals while turning.

RTO OfficerCongratulations, Rahul, you've passed your driving test.

RahulThank you! When will I get my permanent licence?

RTO OfficerIt will be delivered to your address as a smart card within two weeks.

RahulThat's great news! Should I carry any document until then?

RTO OfficerYes, keep this receipt with you as proof until the card arrives.

Driving InstructorCongratulations, Rahul! Remember to always wear your seatbelt and follow the speed limit.

Common mistakes

Saying "take driving licence" instead of "get a driving licence" or "obtain a driving licence."
Saying "pass in the test" instead of "pass the test."
Saying "my licence expire" instead of "my licence expires" or "my licence has expired."
Saying "wear seatbelt" instead of "wear a seatbelt" or "wear my seatbelt."
Saying "take a u-turn from here" instead of "take a u-turn here."
Saying "pay the challan" without saying "the fine" or "the traffic fine" to a listener unfamiliar with the word "challan."

Quick quiz

1. What is a "learner's licence"?

2. The office that issues driving licences is called the ___.

3. Complete: "Always give a ___ before turning."

4. What must you wear while driving a car for safety?

5. What should you apply for if you lose your driving licence?

6. Where should pedestrians cross the road?

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