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Overview
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.
Eligibility
- Your existing driving license has expired or is about to expire
- You are applying within the grace period if already expired
- Your license was issued by an RTO in India
Documents Required
- Existing driving license (original and copy)
- Aadhaar card or other address proof
- Age proof (if not available in old DL)
- Passport-size photographs
- Medical certificate (for commercial licenses or applicants above 40 years)
Fees
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| DL renewal fee Varies by state RTO | ₹200 - ₹500 |
| Late renewal penalty Applicable if renewed after grace period | ₹1,000 per year |
| Smart card fee If applicable in your state | ₹200 |
Processing Time
7 to 20 working days
Timeline varies by state RTO and whether a physical visit is required.
Step-by-Step Process
Visit the Sarathi portal
Open the official Sarathi portal. The homepage prompts you to select the state from where you want to avail the driving licence service.
Select State
Choose the state where your driving licence was issued or where you want to renew it.
Select State
Choose the state where your driving licence was issued or where you want to renew it.
Selecting the correct state and RTO is important because your DL records are maintained there.
Log in to Sarathi
After selecting your state, click the Login button at the top-right and enter your username, password, and captcha to access the Sarathi dashboard. New users must register first.
Login
Click the Login button after selecting your state to open the sign-in form.
Login
Click the Login button after selecting your state to open the sign-in form.
Error: "No record found" — Check that you selected the correct state and RTO before logging in.
Choose "Renewal of DL" service
After logging in, navigate to the online services menu and select the option for driving licence renewal.
Login-required step
Some states may label it as "Renewal of DL" or "DL Renewal".
Enter driving licence details
Enter your existing DL number and date of birth to fetch your current licence details. Verify that the details match your old DL before proceeding.
Login-required step
Make sure your DL has not been expired for too long, or a late fee may apply.
Pay the renewal fee
Review the fee breakdown and pay online using UPI, card, or net banking. The fee varies by state RTO, typically between ₹200 and ₹500.
Login-required step
If renewed after the grace period, a late penalty of ₹1,000 per year may apply.
Book RTO appointment (if required)
Some states require a visit to the RTO for document verification or biometrics. Book a convenient date and time slot if prompted.
Login-required step
Carry original DL, Aadhaar, and fee receipt to the RTO appointment.
Receive renewed driving licence
After verification, your renewed driving licence will be processed. You can download a digital copy or wait for the smart card to be dispatched.
Login-required step
Processing time varies by state RTO, usually 7 to 20 working days.
Common Mistakes
Common Errors & Fixes
| Error | Fix |
|---|---|
| DL record not found | Verify your DL number, selected state, and RTO. Contact your issuing RTO if records are missing. |
| Payment successful but no receipt | Check your email/SMS. Download the receipt from the application history section. |
| Appointment slots not available | Try different dates or check early morning when new slots are released. |
| Renewal rejected due to old photo | Upload a recent passport-size photo as per Sarathi specifications. |