Driving License Expiring: If your driving license is expiring, it’s time to take action! In India, driving with an expired license can lead to fines, penalties, or even disqualification in some cases. Thankfully, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) provides a grace period and an easy renewal process—online and offline.
Driving License Expiring
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Grace Period | 30 days from date of expiry |
| Late Fee (After Grace Period) | ₹300 + ₹100 per year of delay |
| If Expired Over 1 Year | Driving test may be required |
| If Expired Over 5 Years | Must apply for a new licence |
| Official Portal | Parivahan Sewa |
| Documents Required | Form 9, original DL, address proof, age proof, Form 1A (if age >40), photos |
| Renewal Fee (Non-Transport) | ₹200 within grace period |
| Application Modes | Online (via Parivahan), Offline (at RTO) |
| Who Should Read This | Drivers of all ages, especially professionals and older drivers |
| Updated For | April 2025, as per MoRTH guidelines |
Renewing your driving licence in India is a legal requirement and a simple process if you plan ahead. With a 30-day grace period, an easy online portal, and minimal documentation, you can avoid penalties and continue driving without stress. Whether you’re renewing for the first time or guiding someone else through it, this guide has everything you need to renew your DL smoothly and confidently.
Why Renewing Your Driving License Matters
A valid driving licence isn’t just a formality—it’s a legal necessity. Whether you’re driving for personal use or as part of your profession (e.g., commercial or delivery driver), you must have a valid DL. According to Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act, driving with an expired licence can attract fines starting from ₹500 and may increase based on the severity of the offense.
What is the Grace Period for Driving Licence Renewal?
The Government of India provides a 30-day grace period from the date of expiry of your DL. If you apply within this period, your licence will be renewed from the original expiry date and you won’t need to pay any late fees.
Example: If your DL expired on March 1st, and you apply on or before March 31st, you pay only the standard renewal fee.
However, after this grace period, late fees and penalties apply, and your renewed licence will be valid from the date of application, not from the expiry date.
What Happens if You Miss the Grace Period?
Here’s what you need to know:
1. If Renewed After 30 Days
- You pay a late fee of ₹300, plus ₹100 for each year (or part thereof) of delay.
- Licence is renewed from the application date, not the expiry date.
2. If Expired Over 1 Year
- You may need to reappear for the driving test.
- Medical fitness certification (Form 1A) becomes mandatory.
3. If Expired Over 5 Years
- Your licence becomes invalid.
- You must apply afresh, starting with a learner’s licence.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Renew Your Driving Licence
Option 1: Online Renewal (Recommended)
Follow these steps via the Parivahan Sewa portal:
Step 1: Visit the Portal
- Go to https://parivahan.gov.in
Step 2: Select Your State
- The system will redirect you to the specific State Transport Department portal.
Step 3: Choose “Driving Licence Services”
- Click on “Apply for DL Renewal.”
Step 4: Fill in Your Details
- Enter your DL number, date of birth, and category (non-transport or transport).
Step 5: Upload Documents
- Upload scanned copies of:
- DL (expired)
- Form 9
- Proof of address
- Passport-sized photo
- Form 1A (if applicable)
Step 6: Pay Fees
- Renewal fee: ₹200
- Late fee (if applicable): ₹300 + ₹100 per year of delay
Step 7: Download Acknowledgment
- Note your application number for tracking.
Step 8: Appointment (if required)
- Visit the RTO for biometric and verification, if requested.
Option 2: Offline Renewal
Prefer going to the RTO? Here’s what to do:
- Visit Local RTO Office
- Ask for Form 9 (Renewal Application)
- Fill and Attach Required Documents
- Pay Applicable Fees
- Submit for Verification
- Collect Acknowledgment and Wait for DL
Required Documents for Renewal
Here’s your checklist:
| Document | Who Needs It |
|---|---|
| Form 9 | All applicants |
| Original DL | All applicants |
| Address Proof | All applicants |
| Age Proof | Required if DL doesn’t mention DOB |
| 2 Passport-size Photos | All applicants |
| Medical Certificate (Form 1A) | If age > 40 or for commercial DLs |
Accepted proofs include Aadhar Card, Voter ID, Passport, Electricity Bill, etc.
Driving Licence Renewal Fees
As per the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, here are the fees:
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Renewal within grace period | ₹200 |
| Renewal after grace period | ₹200 + ₹300 (late fee) + ₹100/year |
| Smart Card DL issuance (if applicable) | ₹200 |
| Driving Test (if expired >1 year) | ₹300 (approx., varies by state) |
Check MoRTH Fee Schedule
Tips for a Hassle-Free Licence Renewal
- Set a calendar reminder for your DL expiry date.
- Apply at least 10-15 days before expiry to avoid last-minute delays.
- Ensure documents are up-to-date and legible.
- Use the same address as on your Aadhar or bank passbook for smooth verification.
- Track application status online using your application number.
Watch: DL Renewal Explained Visually
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FAQs on Driving License Expiring
Can I drive with an expired licence during the grace period?
Yes, but only for 30 days after expiry. After that, you risk penalties.
What if I changed my address recently?
Update your address online during the renewal. You’ll need address proof from the new location.
Is renewal mandatory for both transport and non-transport licences?
Yes. All driving licences must be renewed before expiry.
Can I renew my DL from another state?
Yes, through the Parivahan portal, but you may be asked to produce a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the issuing RTO.
What if I lost my DL before renewing?
You must first apply for a duplicate driving licence before proceeding with renewal.
