Apply for New Driving License Online in India
A permanent driving license in India is issued after you hold a valid learner's license and pass the driving test. The application is started on the Sarathi portal, followed by fee payment, test slot booking, and a visit to the RTO.
AI Summary
A permanent driving license in India is issued after you hold a valid learner's license and pass the driving test This guide covers the official process through Parivahan Sarathi (sarathi.parivahan.gov.in). Typical effort is 9 min; processing time is 7 to 20 working days; government fee is ₹150 - ₹200 / ₹300 - ₹500 / ₹200.
Quick Answer
Visit Parivahan Sarathi (sarathi.parivahan.gov.in), log in or register, fill in the request and upload the required documents, pay ₹150 - ₹200 / ₹300 - ₹500 / ₹200, and submit the application. Processing typically takes 7 to 20 working days.
Key Facts
Processing Time
7 to 20 working days
Government Fee
₹150 - ₹200 / ₹300 - ₹500 / ₹200
Online Available?
Yes — through official portal
Documents Required
Learner's license, Age proof (birth certificate, school leaving certificate, passport), Address proof (Aadhaar, voter ID, utility bill) +3 more
Official Portal
Parivahan Sarathi (sarathi.parivahan.gov.in)
Important Disclaimer
Government processes, fees, documents, and portal interfaces may change without notice. Always verify the latest requirements on the official government website before submitting any application. ToolBox is not affiliated with any government body.
Official Government Links
Quick Checklist
Documents
- Learner's license
- Age proof (birth certificate, school leaving certificate, passport)
- Address proof (Aadhaar, voter ID, utility bill)
- Passport-size photographs
- Application form printout
- + 1 more
Key Info
- Fee from ₹150 - ₹200
- 7 to 20 working days
- Apply only on official portal
Step-by-Step Visual Guide
7 stepsVisit the Sarathi portal
Select State
Choose the state where you want the driving licence service.
Login
Click Login after selecting the state to open the sign-in form.
Select State
Choose the state where you want the driving licence service.
Login
Click Login after selecting the state to open the sign-in form.
Open https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in and select the state where you want to apply for the driving licence.
Selecting the correct state and RTO is important because your DL records are maintained there.
Log in to Sarathi
Select State
Choose the state where you want the driving licence service.
Login
Click Login after selecting the state to open the sign-in form.
Select State
Choose the state where you want the driving licence service.
Login
Click Login after selecting the state to open the sign-in form.
After selecting the state, click the Login button and enter your username, password, and captcha. New users must register first.
Error: "No record found" — Check that you selected the correct state and RTO before logging in.
Select "Apply for New Driving Licence"
After logging in, choose the option to apply for a new driving licence and select the relevant vehicle class.
Enter learner licence and personal details
Enter your existing learner licence number and date of birth to fetch your records. Verify that the details match before proceeding.
Make sure your learner licence is still valid and covers the vehicle class you are applying for.
Upload documents and photograph
Upload clear scans of your age proof, address proof, and a recent passport-size photograph as per Sarathi specifications.
Pay the fee and book a driving test slot
Review the fee breakdown and pay online. Book a convenient date and time slot for the driving test at your RTO.
If the fee is deducted but the slot is not booked, check your application history before retrying.
Visit the RTO for the driving test
On the test day, visit the RTO with original documents and the fee receipt. Pass the driving test to receive your permanent licence.
Carry the vehicle for which you are taking the test, or use the RTO vehicle if available.
Documents Required
- Learner's license
- Age proof (birth certificate, school leaving certificate, passport)
- Address proof (Aadhaar, voter ID, utility bill)
- Passport-size photographs
- Application form printout
- Medical certificate for commercial vehicles
Fees
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Learner's license test fee Varies by state | ₹150 - ₹200 |
| Driving license test fee Varies by state | ₹300 - ₹500 |
| Smart card fee If applicable | ₹200 |
Processing Time
7 to 20 working days
Timeline depends on test slot availability and RTO processing.
Common Errors & Fixes
Learner licence not found
Ensure you selected the correct state and RTO and entered the learner licence number correctly.
Photo upload rejected
Upload a recent passport-size photo as per Sarathi specifications.
Payment deducted but slot not booked
Check application history. If the slot is missing, book again without paying.
Test slot not available
Try a different date or RTO. New slots are released periodically.
Frequently Asked Questions
People Also Ask
Is a driving test mandatory?
Yes. You must pass the driving test at the RTO for a permanent licence.
How long is a new driving license valid?
For private vehicles, usually 20 years or until age 50, whichever is earlier.
Can I apply for a driving license without a learner licence?
No. You must hold a valid learner licence before applying for a permanent driving license.
Can I apply for new driving license online in india?
Yes, you can complete this process online through the Parivahan Sarathi (sarathi.parivahan.gov.in). Follow the step-by-step guide on this page.
What documents are required to apply for new driving license online in india?
You typically need Learner's license, Age proof (birth certificate, school leaving certificate, passport), Address proof (Aadhaar, voter ID, utility bill) +3 more. The exact documents may vary by state or applicant category, so verify on the Parivahan Sarathi (sarathi.parivahan.gov.in).
How long does it take to apply for new driving license online in india?
The estimated processing time is 7 to 20 working days. Some requests may be completed sooner depending on verification workload.
Download Checklist
Download Checklist
Get a printable list of documents, fees, and important notes.
Related Guides
More step-by-step guides you may need
Apply for Learner License Online in India
A learner's license is a provisional permit that allows you to learn driving under supervision. You can apply for it online through the Sarathi portal, pay the fee, and appear for an online test at the RTO.
Driving License Renewal Online in India
A driving license in India is generally valid for 20 years or until the holder turns 50, whichever is earlier. After expiry, you must apply for renewal through the Sarathi portal, pay the fee, and visit the RTO for verification if required. Some states allow complete online renewal; others require a physical visit.
Change Address in Driving License Online
If you have moved to a new address, you should update your driving license to ensure it matches your current residence. The Sarathi portal lets you apply for a change of address in your DL and collect the updated smart card from the RTO.