Overview
In Pakistan, driving licences are issued by each district, province or territory, so the rules differ a little between places but are broadly similar. All provinces and territories recognise each other's licences. This page rests on the English Wikipedia article on driving licences in Pakistan, which describes the general process and includes a section on Punjab. It does not describe the Punjab licensing computer system (DLIMS), so nothing about that system is stated here. Confirm details with the licensing authority in your district.
Who can apply
According to Wikipedia:
The minimum age for a permanent licence is 18, and 20 for paid drivers. A learner's permit is available from age 16.
Applicants show their national identity card (CNIC) and proof of residence, and apply in person in their district of domicile.
A medical form signed by an authorised practitioner is needed, and the applicant must be able to read a car number plate from 20.5 metres.
Most applicants first get a learner's permit.
The article lists these licence categories: motorcar or jeep, motorbike or rickshaw, LTV (light transport vehicle), HTV (heavy transport vehicle), tractor (agricultural), PSV (public service vehicle) and the international driver's permit.
Exam pattern
Wikipedia describes two phases:
Phase 1: a computerised written test followed by a road signs test. Passing needs at least 50% correct answers.
Phase 2: a practical test of driving in narrow spaces and parking in a narrow space.
A candidate who fails phase 1 retries after 42 days. In phase 2, if the car touches a cone, a retest can take place after 42 days.
Fees
The article says a ticket of Rs. 60 is pasted for each licence category, for example motorbike or car. It gives no year for this, so treat it as the fee as listed on that page in 2026 and check the current amount locally.
After the exam
A learner's permit is normally valid for six months. For construction or agricultural machinery it is valid for one year.
A learner can take the practical driving test after 42 days (six months for construction or agricultural machinery).
Most licences are valid for 5 years, and PSV licences for 3 years. A foreigner's licence lasts as long as their Pakistani visa, and an international driving permit is valid for one year.
FAQs
What is the pass mark for Pakistan's driving theory test?
Wikipedia says passing requires at least 50% correct answers in phase 1.
How long is a Pakistani learner's permit valid?
Normally six months, or one year for construction or agricultural machinery.