Renewing your driving licence (DL) in India is essential to stay legally compliant on the roads. A private (non-transport) driving licence is typically valid for 20 years from the date of issue or until you turn 40-50 years old (whichever is earlier), while commercial licences need renewal every 3-5 years. You can apply for renewal up to one year before expiry, and there’s a 30-day grace period after expiry without penalties. Delays beyond that attract late fees, and if expired over 5 years, you may need to apply afresh or retake tests.
The process of renewing your driving license is largely digital via the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ Sarathi Parivahan portal (sarathi.parivahan.gov.in), making it convenient and contactless for most applicants.
Driving License renewal: Eligibility and required documents
Before starting, ensure you meet the criteria:
– Your DL must not be suspended or cancelled.
– For applicants over 40 years, a medical certificate (Form 1A) from a registered doctor is mandatory.
– Commercial/heavy vehicle licences may require a refresher training certificate.
Here are some of the key documents needed to renew your driving license:
– Original existing driving licence
– Application Form 9 (filled online or downloadable)
– Self-declaration of physical fitness (Form 1)
– Medical certificate (Form 1A, if aged 40+ or for commercial DL)
– Proof of age and address (Aadhaar, passport, voter ID, etc.)
– Recent passport-sized photographs (2-3 copies)
– For address change or inter-state renewal: No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the original RTO
DL renewal fees
Those who want to renew their licenses need to pay the following fees:
– The typical range is from Rs 200-Rs 400 for timely renewal (plus smart card fee).
– Late renewal adds ₹300-₹1,000 per year of delay, varying by state.
Step-by-step renewal process
The preferred method is online, which allows document upload, fee payment, and slot booking for any required RTO visit.
Online renewal via Sarathi Parivahan:
– Visit https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/
– Select your state from the dropdown.
– Click on “Driving Licence” > “Services on Driving Licence (Renewal/Duplicate/etc.)”
– Enter your driving licence number, date of birth, and captcha; click “Proceed” to fetch details.
– Choose “Renewal” as the service.
– Fill the application form, upload scanned documents (PDF/JPEG), photographs, and your signature.
– Pay the fees online (via net banking, UPI, or card).
– Book an appointment slot at your nearest RTO if biometric verification or document check is required (common for medical cases or expired DL).
– Visit the RTO on the scheduled date with originals for verification (if needed).
– Track status using your application number on the portal.
Your renewed DL (smart card) will be dispatched by post to your registered address within 15-30 days, or you can collect it from the RTO.
Offline renewal (if preferred):
- Visit your local RTO.
- Obtain and fill Forms 9, 1, and 1A (if applicable).
- Submit with documents and photos.
- Pay fees at the counter and get a receipt.
- The renewed licence will be processed and sent via post.
Tips for smooth renewal:
- Apply early to avoid rush and penalties.
- Use DigiLocker or mParivahan app for a digital DL (accepted by traffic police).
- Check application status regularly on the portal.
- For NRIs: Apply online and authorise someone in India if needed, or renew during visits.
Driving with an expired DL can lead to fines up to Rs 5,000, insurance claim denials, or legal issues. Renew on time for hassle-free motoring! For state-specific variations, refer to your RTO website.
