If you live in Punjab, you probably remember the days of standing in endless lines outside the Traffic Police office just to get a piece of paper that says you are learning how to drive. Those days are officially over. The Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) has digitized the entire process through the DLIMS 2.0 (Driving License Issuance Management System) portal. You can now apply for a driving license online in Punjab using your phone or laptop in less than 10 minutes.
Whether you are 18 and applying for your first motorcycle permit or getting a car permit, here is the exact step-by-step process.
1. What You Need Before Starting
Before you open the website, keep these things ready on your phone/computer:
- Your CNIC Number.
- A clear picture of your CNIC (Front and Back).
- A recent passport-sized picture (A clear selfie against a plain wall works perfectly).
- Medical Certificate: Only required if you are 50 years of age or older.
2. Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Register on DLIMS Go to the official website: dlims.punjab.gov.pk/register. Create an account by entering your Name, CNIC, Email, and a password. Once registered, log in to your dashboard.
Step 2: Start a New Application Click on “New Learner” from the menu. Fill out the digital form with your personal details, including your height, blood group, and address. Ensure your address matches your CNIC exactly.
Step 3: Select Your Category Choose the vehicle type you want to drive.
- Note: You can select multiple categories at once (e.g., Motorcycle + Motor Car).
Step 4: Upload Your Documents Upload the picture of yourself and the front/back images of your CNIC. Make sure the file sizes are not too large and the text on the ID card is readable. Submit the application.
3. How to Pay the Fee (The PSID Method)
Once you submit the form, the status will show as “Pending.” You do not need to go to a post office for tickets anymore. The system will generate a 17-digit PSID (Payment Slip ID). The fee is just Rs. 60 per category.
How to pay via Easypaisa / JazzCash / Banking App:
- Open your banking or mobile wallet app.
- Go to Bill Payment or Govt Payments.
- Select Government of Punjab or Punjab e-Challan.
- Enter your 17-digit PSID number.
- The amount (e.g., Rs. 60 or Rs. 120) will appear. Confirm the payment.
4. Download Your e-License
The moment your payment is processed, return to the DLIMS website.
- Go to the “Paid Applications” tab.
- Click on the “Action” button next to your application and hit Print.
- A PDF of your Learner’s Driving License will be generated.
Save it on your phone or print it out. If a traffic warden stops you, showing the digital PDF on your phone is 100% legally acceptable.
Verdict
The entire process takes less time than drinking a cup of chai. Remember, a learner’s permit is valid for 6 months. You must wait at least 42 days after the permit is issued before you can apply for your regular driving test. Drive safe, and make sure there is a licensed driver sitting next to you while you learn!