When and How to Renew Driving Licence in India

Renewing your driving licence is a crucial responsibility for all vehicle owners in India. Understanding the process and adhering to the legal requirements ensures continued compliance with the law and helps maintain road safety. This blog serves as a comprehensive guide to assist drivers in navigating the renewal process efficiently. By outlining the essential aspects of renewal, including eligibility criteria, required documents, and renewal timelines, this blog aims to empower individuals to fulfil this obligation conscientiously and without undue hassle.

 

When to renew my driving licence

In India, driving licence renewal can be done within one year prior to or after the expiry of the licence. An application for renewal shall be entertained not more than one month before the date of expiry of the licence. If the application is late for more than one month after the date of expiry of the licence, the renewal will be made with effect from the date of receipt of proper application. In such cases, a fee of Rs. 30/- will be realised. The government offers a grace period of 30 days from the date of DL expiration. You can renew an expired Driving Licence within this period, without any penalty.

 

How to renew driving licence in India

The DL renewal process involves the following steps:

Step 1: Go to https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/

 

Step 2: Choose your state

 

Step 3: Navigate to the "Driving Licence" menu and select "Services on Drivers Licence (Renewal/Duplicate/AEDL/Others)"

 

Step 4: Complete the application form

 

Step 5: Click the "Next" button to continue

 

Step 6: On the scheduled date, visit the Regional Transport Office (RTO) with the original documents and Fee Slip

 

Note: The private driving licence is valid for 20 years from the date of issue or until the applicant turns 40 years of age, whichever happens earlier.

 

Tips for Hassle-Free Renewal

Here are some general tips for renewing driving licence in a hassle-free manner.

1. Prepare the Necessary Documents: Gather all required documents, including identification, address proof, and existing licence details, in advance to streamline the renewal process.

 

2. Choose the Renewal Method Wisely: Assess whether online or offline renewal is more convenient based on your schedule and familiarity with either process. Selecting the most suitable method can save time and effort.

 

3. Common Mistakes to Avoid: Be mindful of potential errors such as missing deadlines, incomplete forms, or inadequate documentation, as these can lead to delays and complications.

By following these tips, you can navigate the driving licence renewal process with ease and efficiency.

 

Timelines for Renewal

Below are crucial timelines to remember to ensure timely renewal of your driving licence.

• Validity Period: The validity period for a private car driving licence in India is typically up to 20 years from the date of issuance or until the licence holder turns 40 years old, whichever comes first.

 

• Grace Period: If an expired private car driving licence in India is renewed within 30 days, no penalty is imposed. This is called the Grace Period. Renewing the licence after this grace period will incur additional fees.

 

Consequences of delayed renewal

Timely renewal of an expired driving licence helps avoid the arduous process of applying for a new licence. You will also be able to avoid the following consequences.

• According to the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, driving with an expired licence is considered an offence equivalent to driving without a licence.

 

• Section 177 of the Act stipulates that driving without a licence can result in a fine of Rs. 500/- or a maximum imprisonment of 3 months, or both.

 

• Similar consequences apply to individuals driving with an expired licence.

 

• Failure to renew the licence within the 30-day grace period incurs an additional fine at the time of renewal application, making the process more expensive.

 

• If a licence is not renewed within 5 years of its expiry, the holder is disqualified from applying for renewal and must go through the entire application process again.

 

Impact on Insurance Coverage

Driving with an expired licence can have significant implications on insurance coverage. Here are some key points to consider.

1. Nullified Coverage: During the period of licence expiration, the insurance company may deem the policy void, leading to a loss of coverage for any accidents or damages that occur during this time.

 

2. Potential Denial of Claims: If an accident occurs while driving with an expired licence, the insurance company might reject any claims, leaving the driver personally liable for all costs.

 

FAQs

1. What documents are required for renewing a driving licence?

The necessary documents for renewing a driving licence include identification, address proof, and existing licence details.

 

2. Is there a grace period for renewing an expired driving licence, and what are the consequences of renewing after this period?

Yes, in India, there is a grace period of 30 days from the date of DL expiration. If the licence is renewed within this period, no penalty is imposed. However, renewing the licence after this grace period will incur additional fees.

 

3. How long is a private car driving licence valid in India?

The validity period for a private car driving licence in India is typically up to 20 years from the date of issuance or until the licence holder turns 40 years old,whichever comes first.

 

4. What are the potential implications on insurance coverage if I drive with an expired licence?

Driving with an expired licence can result in the insurance company deeming the policy void, potentially leading to a loss of coverage for any accidents or damages that occur during this time. Additionally, if an accident occurs while driving with an expired licence, the insurance company might reject any claims, leaving the driver personally liable for all costs.