Complete Guide to Driving Licence: Apply, Check Status, Download & More

A driving licence is one of the most essential documents for vehicle owners and drivers in India. It acts as both an authorisation to drive legally and a valid government-issued identity proof. Whether you are applying for a new licence, checking your driving licence status, or downloading your DL PDF, via Parivahan Sewa, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.

Parivahan Driving Licence Services

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Apply for New Driving Licence
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Check DL Application Status
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Download Driving Licence PDF
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Renew Driving Licence Online
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Apply for Duplicate DL
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Change Name on DL
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Change Address on DL
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Pay Driving Licence Fees Online
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Apply for Heavy Vehicle DL
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Learning Driving Licence Application
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Track Driving Licence Application
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Use Digilocker / mParivahan for DL

What is a Driving Licence and Why Is It Important?

A driving licence (DL) is an official document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) or Transport Department of a state or union territory. It authorises a person to drive a motor vehicle in India.

Driving without a licence is a punishable offence under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Apart from being a legal necessity, the driving licence is also widely accepted as an ID proof.

Importance of a Driving Licence:

  • Legally permits you to drive.
  • Serves as identity and address proof.
  • Needed for vehicle insurance claims.
  • Required for international driving permits.
  • Acts as a valid KYC document for various services.

How to Apply for a Driving Licence in India (Online & Offline)

A Driving Licence (DL) is an official document issued by the RTO that authorizes you to drive a vehicle in India. You can apply for it online via the Parivahan Sarathi portal or offline by visiting your local RTO. Below are both methods explained step by step.

The Sarathi Parivahan portal by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) allows applicants to apply for a DL from home.

Steps to Apply Online:

  1. Visit Official Portal
  2. Select Your State
    • Choose your state from the dropdown to get redirected to the respective state RTO services.
  3. Click on “Apply Online” → “New Driving Licence”
    • If you already have a Learning Licence (LL), select Apply for Permanent DL.
  4. Fill the Application Form
    • Enter personal details (name, date of birth, address, Aadhaar).
    • Select vehicle type (2-wheeler, 4-wheeler, LMV, etc.).
  5. Upload Required Documents
    • Age proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Birth Certificate).
    • Address proof (Voter ID, Utility Bill, Rental Agreement, Passport).
    • Passport-size photograph.
    • Learning Licence details.
  6. Book a Driving Test Slot
    • Choose date & time for your driving test at the nearest RTO.
  7. Pay Application Fees
    • Pay online via UPI/Debit Card/Net Banking (â‚ą200–₹500 approx., varies by state).
  8. Appear for Driving Test
    • On the scheduled date, visit the RTO.
    • Complete biometric verification (fingerprints & photo).
    • Give road and ground driving test.
  9. Issuance of Driving Licence
    • If you pass, the RTO approves your application.
    • The Driving Licence is dispatched to your registered address.
    • You can track the status online on the Parivahan portal.

Apply for Driving Licence Offline (At RTO)

If you prefer the traditional method, you can directly apply at your nearest RTO office.

Steps to Apply Offline:

  1. Visit Nearest RTO
    • Locate your regional RTO office.
  2. Collect the Application Form
    • Ask for Form 4 (Application for Driving Licence).
    • If renewing, use Form 9.
  3. Fill the Form & Attach Documents
    • Fill in all details correctly.
    • Attach proof of age, address, passport photo, and Learning Licence.
  4. Submit the Application
    • Submit the filled form with documents to the RTO officer.
  5. Pay Fees
    • Pay fees in cash/card at the RTO counter.
    • Collect the fee receipt.
  6. Appear for Driving Test
    • On the scheduled date, attend the driving test at the RTO premises.
    • The inspector evaluates your driving skills.
  7. Get Driving Licence
    • If successful, the licence will be approved and sent by post.
    • Some RTOs also allow same-day smart card DL issuance.

Key Differences: Online vs Offline Application

FeatureOnline (Parivahan)Offline (RTO)
Form FillingDigital (Sarathi Portal)Manual (Form 4/9 at RTO)
Document UploadScan & UploadSubmit photocopies
Fee PaymentOnline (UPI, NetBanking, Card)Cash/Card at RTO
Test SlotBook onlineAllocated by RTO
ConvenienceHigh (done from home)Low (visit RTO multiple times)

Documents Required for Driving Licence Application

To apply for a driving licence, the following documents are mandatory:

  • Proof of Age: Birth certificate, Aadhaar, PAN card, or passport.
  • Proof of Address: Aadhaar card, voter ID, electricity bill, or rental agreement.
  • Passport-sized photographs.
  • Learner’s Licence (LLR).
  • Application form (Form 4) filled correctly.

How to Check Your Driving Licence Status Online

After applying for a driving licence, applicants often want to track whether their application has been approved, dispatched, or under process. The Parivahan Sewa (Sarathi portal) provides an easy way to check your Driving Licence (DL) status online.

Steps to Check Driving Licence Status on Parivahan

  1. Visit the Official Website
    Go to 👉 parivahan.gov.in.
  2. Choose Your State
    On the homepage, click on “Driving Licence Related Services” and select your state from the dropdown menu.
  3. Open Application Status
    From the menu, choose “Application Status” under the Driving Licence services.
  4. Enter Details
    Fill in the required details:
    • Application Number (from your acknowledgement slip)
    • Date of Birth
    • State & RTO
  5. Submit & View Status
    Click “Submit”. Your current DL status will appear on the screen, such as:
    • Application under processing
    • DL approved and printing initiated
    • Licence dispatched / posted
    • Licence delivered

Alternative Ways to Check Driving Licence Status

  • mParivahan App – Download and log in with your mobile number and registration details.
  • State RTO Websites – Some state transport portals also provide direct DL status check options.

How to Download Your Driving Licence PDF

A Driving Licence (DL) soft copy in PDF format is legally valid across India under the Motor Vehicles Act. You can use it via Parivahan Sewa, Digilocker, or mParivahan app in place of a physical DL card.

Steps to Download Driving Licence PDF from Parivahan

  1. Visit the Official Website
    Go to 👉 parivahan.gov.in.
  2. Select Driving Licence Related Services
    Choose your state and proceed.
  3. Login with Application Details
    Enter your application number, date of birth, and registered mobile number.
  4. View Issued Driving Licence
    Once logged in, click on Driving Licence Services → Print Driving Licence.
  5. Download PDF
    Your DL details will appear. Click Download PDF or Print to save it on your device.

Download Driving Licence PDF via Digilocker

  1. Open Digilocker Website/App → digilocker.gov.in.
  2. Login with Aadhaar/Mobile Number (OTP verification required).
  3. Go to Issued Documents → Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH).
  4. Select Driving Licence and fetch it using your DL number.
  5. Tap Download PDF / Save to Device.

Download Driving Licence via mParivahan App

  1. Install and open the mParivahan mobile app.
  2. Login with your registered mobile number.
  3. Enter your DL number & date of birth.
  4. Your digital driving licence will be displayed.
  5. Save it offline or download the soft copy in PDF format.

Driving Licence Fees for 2-Wheeler and 4-Wheeler

Driving licence charges may differ slightly across states, but the standard fee structure under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is as follows:

ServiceFees (â‚ą)Applicable For
Learner’s Licence (LL)₹2002-Wheeler & 4-Wheeler
Driving Licence (DL) Issue₹200 – ₹5002-Wheeler & 4-Wheeler
Driving Test Fee₹300 – ₹1000Motorcycle & Car driving test
Smart Card Printing (DL card)â‚ą2002-Wheeler & 4-Wheeler
Renewal of Driving Licence₹200 – ₹400After expiry of DL
International Driving Permit (IDP)₹1000 – ₹1500For overseas driving
Duplicate Driving Licence (Lost/Damaged)₹200 – ₹300Replacement DL
Change of Details (Address/Name)₹200 – ₹300DL corrections

Parivahan Driving Licence Services: Apply, Check, Download

The Parivahan Sewa portal offers all driving licence-related services online:

  • Apply for learner’s licence (LL).
  • Apply for permanent DL.
  • Slot booking for tests.
  • DL renewal and duplicate licence application.
  • Driving licence status check.
  • DL download in PDF format.

Driving Licence Renewal Process and How to Check Renewal Status

A driving licence is generally valid for 20 years or until the holder turns 50 years old, whichever is earlier.

1. Online Renewal via Parivahan Sewa Portal

  1. Visit the official Parivahan Sewa Portal.
  2. Click on “Online Services → Driving Licence Related Services.”
  3. Select your State to proceed to the respective RTO service page.
  4. Choose “Apply for DL Renewal.”
  5. Fill the online application (Form 9).
  6. Upload the required documents:
    • Age Proof (Aadhaar Card, Birth Certificate, Passport, etc.)
    • Address Proof (Voter ID, Utility Bill, Passport, etc.)
    • Recent Passport-size Photograph
    • Expired Driving Licence copy
  7. Pay the renewal fees (usually ₹200–₹400, varies by state).
  8. Submit and generate the Acknowledgement Receipt.
  9. In some cases, you may be asked to visit the RTO for biometric verification/medical test.
  10. Once processed, your renewed Driving Licence will be dispatched to your registered address or available for download.

2. Offline Renewal at the RTO Office

  1. Visit your nearest RTO office.
  2. Collect and fill out Form 9 (Application for Renewal of Driving Licence).
  3. Attach required documents:
    • Passport-size photographs
    • Age & address proof
    • Original expired DL
    • Medical certificate in Form 1A (if applicant is above 40 years old)
  4. Pay the renewal fees at the counter.
  5. Submit your application.
  6. Collect the acknowledgement slip.
  7. The renewed DL will be sent by post or available for collection at the RTO.

How to Check Driving Licence Renewal Status

You can track the renewal status online:

  1. Visit the Parivahan Sewa Driving Licence Status page.
  2. Enter your Driving Licence Number and Date of Birth.
  3. Enter the Captcha code and click Submit.
  4. The portal will display the current status of your renewal application (Pending, Approved, Dispatched, etc.).

Alternatively, you can also track status on your State RTO website or via the mParivahan app.

How to Change Your Address on Driving Licence

If you have shifted to a new residence, it is mandatory to update your address on your Driving Licence (DL). This ensures all RTO communications, fines, and renewals reach you correctly. You can change your address online via Parivahan or offline by visiting the RTO.

Method 1: Change Address on DL Online (Parivahan Portal)

  1. Visit Parivahan Portal
    • Go to parivahan.gov.in.
    • Select your State under Driving Licence Related Services.
  2. Choose Change of Address Service
    • Click “Apply for Change of Address in DL”.
  3. Enter DL Details
    • Enter your Driving Licence number, date of birth, and state.
  4. Upload Required Documents
    • Proof of new address (Aadhaar card, Voter ID, Electricity/Water bill, Rent agreement, Passport).
    • Scanned passport-size photograph.
  5. Pay Fees Online
    • Fees: â‚ą200 – â‚ą500 (varies by state).
  6. Download Acknowledgement
    • Save/print the acknowledgement receipt.
  7. Receive Updated DL
    • Updated Driving Licence will be:
      • Delivered to your new residential address, or
      • Available digitally on mParivahan/Digilocker.

Method 2: Change Address on DL Offline (RTO Office)

  1. Visit Your RTO Office
    • Go to the RTO where your current licence is registered.
  2. Fill Application Form
    • Collect and fill Form 33/LLD (for address change).
  3. Attach Required Documents
    • Proof of new address (Aadhaar, utility bill, rental agreement, voter ID).
    • Original Driving Licence.
    • Passport-sized photos.
  4. Pay Fees at Counter
    • Fees: â‚ą200 – â‚ą500, depending on state.
  5. Submit Application
    • Submit the filled form with documents at RTO.
  6. Verification
    • RTO officials verify documents.
  7. Receive Updated DL
    • The DL with updated address is dispatched to your new address.

Documents Required for Address Change in Driving Licence

Document TypeExamplesMandatory
Proof of New AddressAadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, Rent Agreement, Utility Billâś…
Identity ProofAadhaar, PAN, Passportâś…
Driving Licence (Original)Current DLâś…
Passport PhotosRecent passport-sized photographsâś…
Application FormForm 33 / LLDâś…

Quick Comparison – Online vs Offline

FeatureOnline (Parivahan)Offline (RTO Office)
ConvenienceApply from homeMust visit RTO
DocumentsUpload scanned copiesSubmit physical copies
PaymentOnline (Netbanking/UPI/Debit Card)Cash/DD at RTO
Processing Time7–15 days10–20 days
Updated DL DeliveryPost / Digital (mParivahan, Digilocker)Post / Collect at RTO

How to Check Driving Licence Number Online

If you have misplaced your Driving Licence card but need your DL number, you can retrieve it online using the Parivahan portal, state RTO website, or DigiLocker.

Method 1: Check Driving Licence Number on Parivahan Portal

  1. Visit Parivahan Portal
    • Go to parivahan.gov.in.
    • Select “Driving Licence Related Services”.
  2. Choose Your State
    • Select the state where your DL was issued.
  3. Go to DL Search / DL Enquiry
    • Click on “DL Search” or “Know Your Licence Details”.
  4. Enter Details
    • Full Name (as per DL).
    • Date of Birth.
    • State / RTO details.
  5. View Licence Details
    • Your Driving Licence Number, validity, and class of vehicles will be displayed.

Method 2: Check Driving Licence Number on DigiLocker

  1. Download and open DigiLocker App (or visit digilocker.gov.in).
  2. Login with your mobile number or Aadhaar.
  3. Go to Issued Documents → Ministry of Road Transport & Highways.
  4. Select Driving Licence.
  5. Your DL Number & full details will appear, which you can download as PDF.

Method 3: Check Driving Licence Number on mParivahan App

  1. Install mParivahan App from Play Store/App Store.
  2. Open app → select RC/DL Search.
  3. Enter your Name, DOB, and State.
  4. Your DL number and details will be displayed instantly.

Download mParivahan App

Download mParivahan Android App Download mParivahan iOS App

Method 4: Offline – At RTO Office

If online methods don’t work, you can retrieve your DL number from your issuing RTO.

Steps:

  • Visit the RTO office where your licence was issued.
  • Fill an application for DL extract / information.
  • Provide ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport).
  • The RTO will issue your DL number after verification.

What is the Age Limit for a Driving Licence?

The eligibility age depends on vehicle category:

  • 16 years – For gearless 2-wheelers (under 50cc) with parental consent.
  • 18 years – For motorcycles with gear and LMV cars.
  • 20 years – For commercial and heavy vehicles.

How to Renew Your Driving Licence Online

A Driving Licence (DL) in India is usually valid for 20 years from the date of issue or until the holder turns 50 years old (whichever comes first). After expiry, you must renew it to continue driving legally.

Most states now allow online renewal through the Parivahan Sewa (Sarathi portal), while you can also apply offline at your local RTO.

Steps:

  1. Login to Parivahan → Select “DL Renewal”.
  2. Upload age proof, address proof, and old DL copy.
  3. Pay renewal fees.
  4. Download acknowledgement.
  5. Updated DL will be delivered by post.

Learning Driving Licence: Requirements and Process

Before getting a permanent DL, you must first obtain a Learner’s Licence (LL).

  • Minimum age: 18 years.
  • Must clear learner’s test (basic traffic rules).
  • Valid for 6 months.
  • Driving practice allowed only with an instructor/experienced driver.

Parivahan Sewa: How to Apply and Track Your Driving Licence

Parivahan Sewa (Sarathi) is the official government portal for all DL-related services.

  • Apply for new/renewal.
  • Slot booking for tests.
  • Check DL status by application number.
  • Download DL card online.
  • Pay fees securely.

How to Download Your Driving Licence Card

A Driving Licence (DL) card can be downloaded online as a soft copy that is legally valid across India. You can access it via the Parivahan portal, your state RTO website, or Digilocker / mParivahan mobile app.

Method 1: Download DL Card via Parivahan Portal

  1. Visit Parivahan Sewa Portal.
  2. Select Driving Licence Related Services.
  3. Choose your state and RTO office.
  4. Login using DL number, date of birth, and captcha.
  5. Select Print Driving Licence / Download DL.
  6. Pay any applicable fee (if required).
  7. Click Download DL PDF.
    • Save it on your device.

Method 2: Download DL Card via State RTO Website

Many states provide a direct facility to download the Driving Licence card.

  1. Visit your State Transport Department (RTO) website.
    • Example: Delhi Transport, Maharashtra RTO, Kerala MVD.
  2. Go to Driving Licence → Print Licence / Download DL.
  3. Enter application number / DL number and DOB.
  4. Verify with OTP sent to registered mobile number.
  5. Download and save the Driving Licence PDF.

Method 3: Download DL via DigiLocker or mParivahan App

🔹 DigiLocker

  1. Install and open the DigiLocker app.
  2. Login with mobile number or Aadhaar.
  3. Go to Issued Documents → Ministry of Road Transport & Highways.
  4. Select Driving Licence and fetch your details.
  5. Tap Download PDF / Save to DigiLocker.

🔹 mParivahan App

  1. Install the mParivahan app (available on Play Store / App Store).
  2. Login with your mobile number.
  3. Select Driving Licence.
  4. Enter DL number and DOB.
  5. Verify with OTP and download the virtual DL card.

How to Pay Driving Licence Fees Online

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) allows applicants to pay driving licence (DL) fees online through the Parivahan Sewa portal. This makes the process faster, transparent, and hassle-free.

Steps to Pay DL Fees Online via Parivahan

  1. Visit the official Parivahan Sewa Portal.
  2. From the homepage, select Online Services → Driving Licence Related Services.
  3. Choose your state from the dropdown list.
  4. Click on Fee Payment from the left-hand menu.
  5. Select Driving Licence Fee.
  6. Enter the following details:
    • Application number (received after submitting your DL application/renewal/duplicate request).
    • Date of birth.
    • Captcha code.
  7. Click Calculate Fee → It will display the applicable amount.
  8. Choose your preferred payment method:
    • Net Banking
    • UPI (Google Pay, PhonePe, BHIM, etc.)
    • Debit/Credit Card
    • Wallet (if available)
  9. Complete the payment and download the Fee Receipt.

Offline Fee Payment (Alternative Method)

If online payment is not possible, you can also pay fees offline at the RTO office:

  • Visit your nearest RTO office.
  • Fill the DL fee challan form.
  • Pay the required amount in cash / demand draft.
  • Collect the acknowledgement slip.

How to Change Name on Driving Licence

Name changes are required in cases like:

  • Spelling mistakes in your original DL
  • After marriage (surname change)
  • Legal name change via Gazette notification

You can update your name online through Parivahan or offline at your RTO office.

Online Method (Parivahan / RTO Portal)

  1. Visit the Parivahan Sewa Portal → Driving Licence Services.
  2. Select Apply for Name Change / Correction in DL.
  3. Enter your DL number, date of birth, and state.
  4. Upload the required documents:
    • Affidavit or Gazette Notification for name change
    • Aadhaar card or any government-issued ID as supporting proof
  5. Pay the prescribed fee online via net banking, UPI, or debit/credit card.
  6. Submit the application.
  7. Once approved, download the updated DL copy or receive it by post.

Offline Method (RTO Visit)

  1. Visit your nearest RTO office.
  2. Request the Name Correction / Update Form.
  3. Fill in the form and attach supporting documents:
    • Affidavit/Gazette Notification
    • Proof of identity (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.)
  4. Submit the form along with the fee receipt.
  5. The RTO will process your request and issue an updated DL.

Driving Licence Test Questions: Prepare for Your Exam

The learner’s licence test includes multiple-choice questions on:

  • Traffic signs.
  • Rules of road safety.
  • Penalties for violations.
  • Signal meanings.

Mock tests are available on Parivahan and state RTO portals.

How to Apply for a Heavy Vehicle Driving Licence

To drive commercial vehicles, apply for Heavy Vehicle Licence (HVL).

  • Must hold LMV licence for at least 1 year.
  • Age should be 20+.
  • Medical certificate required.
  • Pass heavy vehicle driving test at RTO.

Indian Driving Licence: How to Get and Use It

An Indian DL is valid across all states. It can also be used for:

  • KYC verification.
  • Booking vehicles.
  • Applying for an international driving permit.

How to Check Driving Licence Status by Application Number

  • Visit Parivahan.
  • Enter your application number and DOB.
  • DL status will be shown instantly.

How to Use Digilocker to Store Your Driving Licence

  • Login to Digilocker app with Aadhaar.
  • Link your DL through Parivahan integration.
  • Download and store it securely.
  • Digital DL is valid under the IT Act.

Renewal Fees for Driving Licence in Different States

While fees vary, the general renewal charges are:

  • DL renewal – â‚ą200–₹400.
  • Late renewal penalty – â‚ą1000.
  • Smart card renewal – â‚ą200.

What Is an Indian Union Driving Licence?

An Indian Union DL is a standardised smart card driving licence format introduced across India. It includes QR code, chip, and uniform design.

How to Track Your Driving Licence Application

You can track DL delivery via:

  • Parivahan → Application Status.
  • State transport portal.
  • India Post tracking (if sent by speed post).

How to Download and Print Your Driving Licence Photo

Driving Licence Rules and Regulations in India

Key rules under the Motor Vehicles Act:

  • Seat belts and helmets are mandatory.
  • No mobile phone use while driving.
  • Obey traffic signals and speed limits.
  • RTO rules apply for commercial and private vehicles.

Driving Licence Fees for Duplicate Licences

  • Duplicate DL issue fee: â‚ą200–₹400.
  • Smart card printing: â‚ą200 extra.

How to Check Driving Licence Status by Name

If you don’t remember your DL number:

  • Visit Parivahan Sewa → Search by Name.
  • Enter name, DOB, and state.
  • DL details will appear.

Driving Licence Services by Parivahan

Driving Licence Overview Driving Licence Online Apply Driving Licence Download Check Driving Licence Status Driving Licence Renewal Status Permanent Driving Licence LMV Driving Licence Duplicate Driving Licence Parivahan Sewa Services

FAQ

Q1. How can I download my driving licence online?
You can download it via Parivahan, Digilocker, or mParivahan app in PDF format.

Q2. What is the minimum age for a driving licence in India?
18 years for motorcycles with gear and cars; 16 years for gearless two-wheelers under 50cc.

Q3. How to check my driving licence status?
Go to Parivahan → DL Services → Check Status using application number or DL number.

Q4. What if I lose my driving licence?
You can apply for a duplicate driving licence through Parivahan or RTO.

Q5. Can I use a digital driving licence?
Yes, digital DLs stored in Digilocker or mParivahan are legally valid.

Q6. How long is a driving licence valid?
20 years from issue date or until the holder turns 50 years, whichever is earlier.