I didn't find the RTO in Tamil Nadu particularly corrupt, and obtaining a licence was straightforward once I finished the short drivers test. Other states may be different, Delhi included, but getting an Indian licence is not as bad an experience as it used to be, at least not in big cities.

As for actually driving, I hope you're familiar with manual transmission, or plan in advance to get a car with auto. It can't be too bad for an American to drive in India - other drivers might just give him/her way because they're impressed with the person's bravery