How to Renew Driving License Online — DLIMS

Quick Answer

Apply for a learner permit at your nearest DLIMS office with your CNIC, 2 photographs, and the fee (Rs. 300-500). Pass a written test on traffic signs and rules. The learner permit is valid for 6 months — during this time, practice driving and then return for the practical driving test to get your full license.

Starting the Process — Learner Permit First

In Punjab, getting your first driving license is a two-stage process: learner permit first, then full license after passing a driving test. The learner permit proves you know traffic rules (written test), while the driving test proves you can actually drive safely. This two-step system was introduced to reduce the number of untrained drivers on the road.

Learner Permit — What You Need

  • CNIC — you must be 18+ (16+ for motorcycle in some cases)
  • 2 passport-size photographs
  • Medical fitness certificate — basic eye test (can be done at the DLIMS office)
  • Fee: Rs. 300-500

The Written Test

The computerized test covers traffic signs, road rules, right-of-way, lane discipline, and basic vehicle safety. It's multiple-choice, typically 30 questions, with a pass mark of 60-70%. Study material is available at DLIMS offices and online. Most people who study for 2-3 hours pass easily — the questions are straightforward.

Common topics: meaning of traffic signs (stop, yield, no entry, speed limits), when to use indicators, right-of-way at intersections, following distance, overtaking rules, and what to do at railway crossings.

After the Learner Permit

The learner permit is valid for 6 months. During this period:

  • Practice driving with a licensed driver in the passenger seat
  • The learner permit allows you to drive on public roads — but only with a licensed companion
  • After gaining confidence, book your practical driving test at the DLIMS office

Ready for the driving test? Practical driving test guide. For motorcycle-specific licensing: motorcycle license process. Already have a license from another country? international license conversion.

Common First-Time Applicant Mistakes

  • Skipping the learner permit. Some people try to go directly to the driving test. DLIMS requires the learner permit stage — there's no shortcut.
  • Not studying for the written test. It's basic, but people who don't study fail on traffic sign identification. Spend 2-3 hours reviewing signs and rules.
  • Expired CNIC. A valid CNIC is required. Expired CNICs block the application.
  • Wrong age for the category. Minimum 18 for car (LTV). Motorcycle may be 16+ in some districts. HTV and PSV have higher minimums.

Don't buy a fake license. Fake licenses are sold through agents near some DLIMS offices. Using one is a criminal offense — if caught during a police check, you face arrest, not just a fine. The DLIMS biometric system makes fake licenses detectable.

Learner Permit — First-Time Applicant Questions

Visit dlims.punjab.gov.pk and enter your CNIC number. The system shows your license categories, issue date, expiry date, and current status. See DLIMS verification guide for details.

Fees vary by category: Motorcycle Rs. 600-1,000, LTV (car) Rs. 1,000-1,500, HTV Rs. 1,500-2,000. These are approximate — verify current fees at your DLIMS office or the online portal.

5 years from the issue date, regardless of category. Renewal must be done at a DLIMS office before or shortly after expiry.