MCWG vs LMV: Understand Driving Licence and Insurance Differences

Posted on: Dec 16, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

MCWG vs LMV: Understand Driving Licence and Insurance Differences

In India, understanding the difference between a motorcycle with gear and a non-transport light motor vehicle is crucial for applying for the right driving licence and insurance. It is essential to have mandatory third-party bike insurance for both automobile types to ensure you're legally protected.

Difference Between Motor Cycle With Gear and Light Motor Vehicle

A motorcycle with gear (MCWG) is a two-wheeled vehicle that requires the rider to operate gears manually. These motorcycles are commonly used for personal transportation and have various engine capacities. In India, a motorcycle with gear requires an MCWG driver's licence, which is different from the one for gearless motorcycles.

Light motor vehicle (LMV) refers to a range of four-wheelers, like small cars, jeeps, or vans. This category includes automobiles strictly used for personal uses called light motor vehicle non-transport (LMV -NT) and those for transporting people and goods (LMV-TR). An LMV-TR and LMV-NT driver's licence allows the operation of these four-wheeled vehicles.

To get MCWG and LMV-TR/LMV-NT licences, an individual must be at least 18 years old, hold a learner’s licence for 30 days, and pass the relevant driving tests.

What is the Difference Between MCWG and LMV Driving Licence?

Here are the differences between LMV and MCWG driving licences.

Criteria	MCWG Licence	LMV Licence
Vehicle Type	Applies to motorcycles with gears.	Applies to small cars, jeeps, vans, and other light vehicles.
Test Requirements	Requires a driving test specifically for motorcycles with gears.	Requires separate tests for light motor vehicles used for transport and non-transport purposes.

Insurance for MCGW vs LMV

MCWG and LMV have the same insurance requirements.

• Third-Party Insurance

This is mandatory for all motorcycles, including MCWG, and four-wheelers. It covers liabilities arising from third-party damages or injuries caused by your vehicle.

• Comprehensive Insurance

A more extensive insurance option that covers third-party liabilities, vehicle theft, and damages caused to your automobile by accident, natural calamities, or man-made disasters.

• Customisation Options:

If you have a comprehensive insurance policy, you can add riders for enhanced protection, such as roadside assistance and engine protection covers.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between MCWG and LMV is essential for ensuring compliance with driving regulations and obtaining the right insurance coverage. It is easy to get four-wheeler or bike insurance online. If you plan to operate both types of vehicles, ensure your licence explicitly includes both MCWG and LMV categories to avoid legal complications.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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