Drivers license - Is it Mandatory to carry?

[cprasp]

I'm dealing with a bit of a mess here which I caused over the years owing to my lack of knowledge of maintaining uniformity.

My name is different on different documents like, some with the middle name, initials of surname on some, surname spelt out on some etc., Before application, I got an affidavit which mentions 4 different versions of my name and I'm still falling short! Dang these RTA agents, who see fit to just change the spelling without ever mentioning that to you! I, In all my laziness never cared to check the name. I have less than 10 days to pack bags and I realized last night that my surname is misspelt on my driving license and it doesn't match with any of the 4 versions mentioned in the affidavit. The worst part is - I have 2 wheeler license which is correct. Now, I'm not sure:

1) Can I not carry my driving license. I understand this entails starting from scratch when I need to get the license there. Perhaps, I could get these issues fixed and re-apply for G license directly after my next visit to India.

2) If I have to carry one, can I show only my 2 wheeler license?

3) If I have to show both the licenses or only 4 wheeler license, will an explanation letter suffice?

Thanks!

 

[cprasp]

And I checked with few agents reg., turn around time for a name change. One said that those small change requests are not entertained (which is weird, I know! but someone else posted this on some thread). If this helps, my RTO is Hyderabad Central Zone in Telangana, India.

And another said, currently the cards are in short supply, name change itself might happen in records in few days but the actual card will be sent out in 15 days or so. If I can get a letter that I requested for a name change and showcase the original license if I don't have to surrender that, will that work? But I doubt If I can withhold the original once the records are updated.

 

[_Harry_]

I can't confirm on the license query but one of my friend went from India to Canada on spousal visa and she hadn't had her Indian driver's license with her when she landed.
As per her, she had to face some difficulties in getting new license there. As per her, if she had her Indian license with her, things would have been simpler. So I assume that carrying a license is not mandatory but carrying one will do you some good.