Driving License Renewal Online - DL Renewal Process

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.

💡
Important: You can apply for DL renewal up to 1 year before expiry and up to 1 year after expiry without any penalty. After 1 year of expiry, you may need to appear for driving test again.

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

Search Driving License by DL Number

Step 1: Visit Sarathi Portal

  1. Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
  2. Select your State from the dropdown
  3. Click on "Driving License" services

Step 2: Select Renewal Service

  1. Click on "DL Renewal" option
  2. Read the instructions carefully
  3. Click "Continue" to proceed

Step 3: Enter DL Details

  1. Enter your existing DL Number
  2. Enter Date of Birth
  3. Enter Captcha and click "Get DL Details"
  4. Verify your existing details displayed

Step 4: Fill Application Form

  1. Update any changed information (address, mobile, etc.)
  2. Upload required documents
  3. Upload recent passport size photograph
  4. Upload signature
  5. Review all details

Step 5: Pay Fees Online

  1. Select payment method (Net Banking/Card/UPI)
  2. Pay the renewal fees
  3. Save the payment receipt

Step 6: Book Appointment (if required)

  1. Select convenient date and time slot
  2. Visit RTO if document verification is needed
  3. 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

  1. Visit sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
  2. Select your state
  3. Click on "Application Status"
  4. Enter Application Number
  5. Enter Date of Birth
  6. 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.