Licence Guide4 min read

MCWG vs MCWOG Licence: What's the Difference & Which Do You Need?

Confused by MCWG and MCWOG on your driving licence? Here's exactly what each covers, which bikes require which, and how to get both in one visit.

By LearnDrive Team·19 March 2025
MCWG licenceMCWOG licencemotorcycle licence Indiatwo wheeler licence types

MCWG vs MCWOG: India's Two-Wheeler Licence Categories Explained

If you've looked at your driving licence or started the application process, you've seen these codes. Here's what they mean.


The Two Categories

CodeFull FormWhat It Covers MCWOGMotorcycle Without GearGearless scooters and motorcycles: Activa, Jupiter, Pleasure, Dio, Access 125, TVS iQube, Ola S1 Pro MCWGMotorcycle With GearGeared motorcycles: Splendor, Pulsar, Bullet, Apache, Duke, Himalayan, Dominar MCWG is the superset — holding MCWG allows you to ride both geared and gearless two-wheelers.

Holding only MCWOG means you can only legally ride gearless scooters/bikes.


Common Confusion Points

"I have LMV — can I ride a scooter?"

Technically, LMV does not cover two-wheelers. You need at minimum MCWOG for a gearless scooter. However, many people ride on LMV alone — traffic police may not check this, but you are technically unlicenced for the vehicle if stopped.

"I have MCWG — can I ride a gearless scooter?"

Yes, absolutely. MCWG covers all two-wheelers.

"My licence says MC50CC — what can I ride?"

MC50CC is for mopeds and motorcycles up to 50cc engine capacity. You cannot ride an Activa (110cc) or any higher cc bike with only MC50CC.


Age Requirements

CategoryMinimum Age MC50CC16 years (with parental consent) MCWOG (any cc)18 years MCWG18 years


Getting Both in One Visit

If you're applying for your first licence, you can apply for MCWG + LMV-NT together in a single application. This means:

  • One LL application, one fee set, one written test
  • Two separate driving tests at the RTO (one on bike, one in car)
  • Both endorsed on the same driving licence card

This is the most efficient approach if you plan to ride a bike and drive a car.


The RTO Test Difference

MCWOG test: Ride a gearless scooter through a figure-8 course, balance test MCWG test: Ride a geared motorcycle through figure-8, may include gear-change test, balance

The MCWG test is slightly harder because you have to manage clutch and gears on the test track. Practice your figure-8 and slow-speed control specifically.

Practice for the RTO written test free →

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