If your Driving License is expiring soon or has already expired, you can easily renew it online through the Sarathi Parivahan portal. The online DL renewal process is simple and saves you from multiple RTO visits.
This comprehensive guide explains the complete DL renewal process, documents required, fees, and step-by-step procedure for renewing your license from home.
When Should You Renew Your Driving License?
- Before Expiry: Apply 1 year to 30 days before expiry date
- Grace Period: Up to 1 year after expiry (no additional fee)
- Late Renewal: After 1 year - additional fees and possible re-test
- After 5 Years: May require complete fresh application
DL Validity Period
| Age at Issue | Validity |
|---|---|
| Below 30 years | Valid till age 40 or 20 years (whichever is earlier) |
| 30-50 years | Valid till age 50 + 10 years |
| 50-55 years | Valid till age 60 |
| Above 55 years | Valid for 5 years from date of issue |
| Transport License | Valid for 3 years from date of issue |
Documents Required for DL Renewal
- Original Driving License
- Address Proof (Aadhaar Card / Voter ID / Passport / Utility Bill)
- Age Proof (if required)
- Passport Size Photographs (recent)
- Medical Certificate (Form 1A) - for age 40+ or Transport License
- Self Declaration Form (Form 1)
Step-by-Step DL Renewal Process Online
Step 1: Visit Sarathi Portal
- Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
- Select your State from the dropdown
- Click on "Driving License" services
Step 2: Select Renewal Service
- Click on "DL Renewal" option
- Read the instructions carefully
- Click "Continue" to proceed
Step 3: Enter DL Details
- Enter your existing DL Number
- Enter Date of Birth
- Enter Captcha and click "Get DL Details"
- Verify your existing details displayed
Step 4: Fill Application Form
- Update any changed information (address, mobile, etc.)
- Upload required documents
- Upload recent passport size photograph
- Upload signature
- Review all details
Step 5: Pay Fees Online
- Select payment method (Net Banking/Card/UPI)
- Pay the renewal fees
- Save the payment receipt
Step 6: Book Appointment (if required)
- Select convenient date and time slot
- Visit RTO if document verification is needed
- Biometric verification may be required
DL Renewal Fees
| Service | Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| DL Renewal (within grace period) | ₹200 - ₹250 |
| DL Renewal (after grace period) | ₹200 + ₹50 per year delay |
| Smart Card Fee | ₹200 |
| Service Charge | ₹50 - ₹100 |
| Medical Test Fee (if applicable) | ₹50 - ₹100 |
| Total Approximate Cost | ₹450 - ₹600 |
Note: Fees vary by state. Check your state's Sarathi portal for exact fees.
Medical Certificate Requirements
Medical certificate in Form 1A is required for:
- Applicants above 40 years of age
- Transport vehicle license renewal
- If any physical disability is declared
- Hazardous goods vehicle license
Medical Tests Included:
- Vision Test (with/without glasses)
- Color Blindness Test
- Hearing Test
- General Physical Fitness
- Limb Functionality Check
Additional Services During Renewal
While renewing your DL, you can also apply for:
- Address Change: Update your current address
- Name Change: Correct name as per updated documents
- Add Vehicle Class: Add new vehicle categories
- Photo/Signature Update: Update with recent photograph
- Mobile Number Update: Change registered mobile number
DL Renewal Status Check
- Visit sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
- Select your state
- Click on "Application Status"
- Enter Application Number
- Enter Date of Birth
- Click "Submit" to view status
DL Status Meanings
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Application Submitted | Application received, pending verification |
| Under Process | Documents being verified |
| Approved | Renewal approved, DL will be dispatched |
| Dispatched | DL sent to your address via Speed Post |
| Rejected | Application rejected, check reason |
State-wise Sarathi Portals
| State | Portal |
|---|---|
| All States | sarathi.parivahan.gov.in |
| Delhi | Delhi Transport |
| Maharashtra | Maharashtra RTO |
| Karnataka | Karnataka Transport |
| Tamil Nadu | TN Transport |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I drive with an expired DL?
No, driving with an expired DL is illegal. However, there is a grace period of 30 days to 1 year depending on state for renewal without penalty.
2. Is RTO visit required for DL renewal?
In many states, if you apply within grace period and no changes are required, RTO visit may not be needed. The renewed DL is delivered by post.
3. Can I renew my DL from a different state?
Yes, you can apply for renewal from any state. The process includes address change to your current state.
4. How long does DL renewal take?
Online renewal typically takes 7-15 working days. The smart card DL is delivered via Speed Post.
5. What if my DL is lost and I need to renew?
You need to first apply for duplicate DL with an FIR copy, then proceed with renewal.
6. Is driving test required for renewal?
Generally no, unless your DL has expired for more than 5 years or the RTO specifically requires it.