A learner's permit is the first stage of Pakistan's driving licence process — issued by the DLA after passing the written traffic rules test, it authorises driving with a licensed driver present for the duration of the permit period.
Understand the Driving Licence Fee Structure
Driving licence fees in Pakistan vary by province and licence category. These approximate figures apply for Punjab in 2026 — verify current rates at nhsra.gov.pk or your DLA office:
| Application Type | Approx. Fee |
|---|---|
| Learner's Permit (LTV or MC) | Rs. 400–600 |
| Driving Licence (new, LTV or MC) | Rs. 600–1,000 |
| Driving Licence (new, HTV or PSV) | Rs. 1,000–1,500 |
| Renewal (LTV or MC) | Rs. 600–1,000 |
| Duplicate (lost or damaged) | Rs. 600–1,200 |
| International Driving Permit | Rs. 3,000–5,000 |
How to Pay the Fee
Licence fees can be paid at:
- DLA cash counter: Most straightforward — pay at the licensing office cashier when you visit
- Bank challan: The DLA issues a fee challan, pay at the designated bank branch (HBL, MCB, NBP etc.), and bring the receipt back
- Online payment: Available through the NHSRA portal for online applications — credit/debit card or internet banking
Additional Costs to Budget For
Beyond the licence fee, budget for:
- Driving school fees: Optional but recommended — Rs. 3,000–8,000 for a basic LTV course
- Photos: Rs. 100–200 for a set of passport photos from a photo studio
- Medical certificate: Free at DLA (eye test); Rs. 300–500 at a private clinic for HTV full medical
Fee Receipts and Record Keeping
Keep all payment receipts through the application process — the fee receipt is required at the biometric appointment. Digital photos of receipts on your phone are a good backup in case the paper is lost before the appointment.
Fees paid to an authorised cashier or bank are non-refundable — even if you cancel or fail tests. Factor this into your decision before paying.
Driving Licence Application Problems
Fee schedules are updated by provincial governments annually. The DLA's current fee chart is authoritative — nhsra.gov.pk may have a slight lag in updating fee schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
No — each province sets its own fee schedule. Punjab, Sindh, and KP have different rates. The figures in this guide are approximate Punjab rates — check your province's DLA for exact current amounts.
No — driving licence fees are paid in full at the time of application. There's no instalment option for a government fee.