Driving License Renewal Process

Driving License Renewal Process

According to The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, it is mandatory to own a valid driver’s licence. It is an official document that is certified by the Indian Government as a legal proof to permit you to operate your vehicle on public roads. It also means that the owner of the licence is well-acquainted with traffic regulations and rules. A fine of ₹5000 or/and imprisonment up to 3 months as a punishment on those driving without a valid driver’s licence is imposed under Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Having a licence alone is not enough, though. Once expired, it is mandatory to renew it to legally drive your vehicle on public roads.

Driver’s Licence Renewal - Validity

Validity of a permanent driver’s licence is 20 years, or until the owner reaches the age of 50. For those whose licence has already expired, a grace period of 30 days without penalty is provided for renewal. If you choose to renew your licence after 30 days, you would be charged an applicable penalty. Those who do not renew their licence within 5 years of expiry will have to apply for a new one.

Validity of Renewed Licence

The validity of a renewed licence for a transport vehicle is 5 years and that of a transport vehicle is 3 years.

Fees for Renewing Driver’s Licence

The fees for renewing your driving licence are as follows:

Traditional Card:

• Before 30 months from date of expiry: Rs. 200

• After 30 months from date of expiry: Rs. 1000 fine (plus applicable fees)

Smart Card Driver’s Licence:

• Before 30 months from date of expiry: Rs. 400

• After 30 months from date of expiry: Rs. 1000 fine (plus applicable fees)

Documents for Driver’s Licence Renewal

1. To renew a driver's licence, the original licence needs to be submitted. It is always recommended to keep the xerox copies of driving licence handy.

2. Passport-sized photograph (3)

3. Driving licence renewal application form (Form 9), which can either be downloaded from the RTO website or can be obtained from RTO office

4. Declaration form no 1, duly signed by you, stating that you are physically healthy to drive a vehicle

5. Form 1A, which specifies you are medically fit, in case you apply to renew your transport vehicle licence.

6. Documents of age and address proof

7. If your residence address is changed, you will have to renew your licence within a month with your new address

Renewal of Driver’s Licence

Most transport-related services can be availed from the RTO (Regional Transport Office) website.

On the website, to renew after the expiry of driver’s licence, you have to select your state of residence. Once selected, you have to follow the steps given below:

1. Select “Apply Online” on the left side of the menu on Parivahan website Source: https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan/

1. Then, click on “Services on Driving licence”

2. You will receive instructions on how to fill in your application form. Read them thoroughly before proceeding. Click ‘Next’ when you’re done.

3. Enter your Birth date and current licence number and press “Go”

4. Next, you will come across “Required Services” which will display only those services which are applicable to your existing driving licence. You must select “Renewal” from the given options.

5. You will then be required to fill in any other relevant personal and/or vehicle-related details given in the form.

6. Once you follow all these steps, you will be redirected to an Acknowledgement page where you will be able to view your application ID (It is recommended that you print it). You will also receive an SMS on your registered mobile number with all the details.

7. You will need to visit the RTO and submit the requisite forms and documents.

8. Your documents will then undergo verification.

9. Upon verification, you will receive your license either on the same day or within a period of 15 days.

If you prefer not to go via the website route, you can collect the form from your nearest RTO. After you fill in the form and submit the required documents, the RTO officials will verify them. If you have applied for renewal at the same RTO from which you received your initial license, you should receive your renewed license within the same day. However, if you have applied at a different RTO, the process may take a couple of weeks.

Conclusion

Adhering to traffic and road safety norms is crucial for Indian drivers. One key part of doing so is ensuring you carry a valid driving license and renewing it as and when necessary. Another key angle is taking out a comprehensive insurance policy. Once you’ve taken care of the renewal part, Bajaj Allianz Motor Insurance (for both cars and two-wheelers) on Finserv MARKETS will handle the insurance portion. With Bajaj Allianz Motor Insurance on Finserv MARKETS, policyholders get access to instant claim settlement, a large network of 4000+ garages across India and much more. With your new insurance policy and renewed license, you’ll be well equipped to head out on the road.