Getting a driving license is an important part of anyone’s life as it gives the license holder the freedom to drive around their own vehicle. However, having a license alone is not enough; there is also the matter of timely renewal of the driving license. The renewals are in place to ensure that your eligibility to keep on driving isn’t impeded by growing age or other conditions.
Here is an article that covers everything you need to know about renewing your license in India.
Why is it necessary to renew your driving license?
As per the Indian Motor Vehicle Act, 1988, it is mandatory for every motor vehicle driver in India to hold a driving license. A driving license is an official document provided by the Indian government that certifies an individual to drive a category of vehicle for which he holds the license. This document is also acknowledged as legal proof and specifies that the license holder is well acquainted with traffic rules and regulations.
Section 177 of the Motor Act, 1988, states that nobody can drive in India without a valid driving license. Violators of the same are liable to a fine of Rs. 500 and/or imprisonment of up to 3 months.
A permanent driving license is valid for 20 years or until the age of 50, whichever is first. An expired driving license is valid only for a month, and it needs to be renewed within that grace period. If the driving license is not renewed within the grace period, the license holder needs to pay a penalty to renew it. If the expired license is not renewed within 5 years from the date of expiry, then the license holder needs to get a fresh driving license.
Where do I file an application to renew my DL?
To renew your DL, you need to submit the application form with the required set of documents to Assistant R.T.O at the Driving License Branch in your state. You can get the renewed driving license on the same evening, given that the license is procured in the same office. Otherwise, it takes up to 20 days to obtain a renewed driving license. A renewed driving license remains valid for 5 years if it’s a non-transport vehicle, and the validity period is 3 years for a transport vehicle.
Documents required for driving license renewal
The list of documents required for renewing a driving license in India are as follows:
| Vehicle Type | Documents required |
| Non-Transport or Private Vehicles |
|
| Commercial/Transport |
|
Ways to apply for driving license renewal
There are 2 ways in which you can renew your expired driving license. Both of them require you to submit a set of documents and renewal fees. Here are the ways in which you can apply for driving license renewal:
Online
- Visit the official website of the Parivahan board i.e. https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan/.
- Now select “Online Services” on the left side of the menu.
- Then, you need to click on “Driving License Related Services”.
- Select the State from which the service has to be availed.
- After this you’ll be redirected to a new page; here, choose “Apply Online” and select “Services on Driving License”.
- You’ll then receive instructions on how you must fill the application form. Read them thoroughly and click ‘Next’ when you’re done.
- Enter your birth date and current license number and press “Go”.
- Next, you’ll be shown the services applicable to your existing driving license. You must select “Renewal” from the list of given options.
- You’ll then be required to fill in any other personal and/or vehicle related details in the given form.
- Once you complete the above steps, you’ll be redirected to an Acknowledgement page where you’ll be able to view your application ID. You’ll also receive an SMS on your registered mobile number with all the details.
- Your documents will then undergo verification.
- Upon verification, you’ll receive the renewed license either on the same day or within a period of 20 days.
Offline
- Visit the RTO office and collect form 9.
- Fill in all the required details in the form and attach all the necessary documents. Don’t forget to include NOC if you’re renewing it from another state.
- Pay the renewal fee and book a test slot if there is any change in medical condition.
- Take the exam and get the driving license. In most cases, the renewed driving license will be provided on the same day. If not, it might take around 30 working days to reach you via post.
Driving license renewal fees
The fees for the renewal of a driving license depends on the form the license you’re applying for – book or smart card.
For book form:
| Application made within 30 days after your license has been expired | Rs. 200 |
| Application made after the grace period of 30 days | Rs. 1000 fine + applicable fees. |
For Smart Card:
| Application made within 30 days after your license has been expired | Rs. 400 |
| Application made after the grace period of 30 days | Rs. 1000 fine + applicable fees. |
Note that as the driving license is a document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO), chances are that the fees might vary from state to state. As such, refer to your respective state’s RTO office or portal to know the exact amount of fees charged in your state.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the eligibility criteria for renewing a driving license?
Anyone with an expired driving license is eligible for its renewal.
How long is a driving license valid?
A permanent driving license is valid for 20 years or until the age of 50, whichever is first.
How long can I use my learner’s license?
A learner’s driving license is valid for a period of 6 months from the date of issuance. If the applicant doesn’t appear to qualify the driving test, he/she will be required to renew the same by paying a fee of Rs. 200.
Is it possible to renew the driving license online?
No, you can’t renew your driving license online. You can opt to fill the driving form online and schedule an appointment for your driving test. Only after passing the driving test, you’ll get your renewed driving license.
Can I make changes to my driving license when I renew?
Yes, you can change your personal details like an address on your driving license when you renew it. Just make sure you provide the relevant documentary proof for the changes you request.
Is it possible to undergo a test when I renew my license?
When renewing a license, a practical test is not mandatory. It may be required if you’re above the age of 50 or there is any change due to medical conditions.
How can I get a permanent driving license?
In order to get a permanent driving license, you first need to apply for a learner’s license and appear for the driving test. On passing the test, you’ll be eligible for receiving the permanent driving license.
