When and How to Renew Driving Licence in India

When to Renew My Driving Licence?

A driving licence is a legal requirement that allows you to drive on Indian roads. Therefore, it is important to renew your driving licence to avoid any legal action. The validity of a driving licence in India is categorised based on age and is listed below.

• An individual below 40 years will have a driving licence valid for 20 years or until the licence holder turns 40, whichever comes first. After 40 years, the renewal is mandatory.

• After 40 years, the renewed licence will be valid for 10 years, that is, till 50 years.

• After 50 years, the license is valid for 5 years and should be renewed every 5 years.

The Indian government provides a grace period of 30 days to renew your licence, during which time no fine or penalty will be imposed. However, if you fail to renew within this period, a late fee will be charged.  

If an individual does not renew their driving for more than one year, the licence cannot be renewed, and the individual will be required to undergo the driving test again before the licence is issued. 

If a person has not renewed their driving licence for more than 5 years, it cannot be renewed, and the applicant must apply for a fresh driving licence. 

You can renew your driving licence online or offline by visiting a nearby RTO. Renewing your driving licence on time avoids hefty fines and the hassle of going through the process again.
 

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. 

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.