In Karnataka, a driving licence (DL) is not just a legal permit to drive but also an important identity document recognized across India. With digitization in transport services, the process of obtaining, downloading, and verifying a driving licence has become much easier for residents of Karnataka. Today, people no longer have to depend solely on physical copies. They can download their driving licence in PDF format, access a soft copy on mobile, or store it securely in DigiLocker and mParivahan apps.
This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap for Karnataka driving licence download, covering every official method:
Official Sites for Karnataka Driving Licence Download
Sarathi Parivahan Portal Karnataka Transport Department DigiLocker mParivahan AppWe will also cover how to download learner’s licences, renewals, duplicate copies, and International Driving Permits (IDPs). Along with that, you will find troubleshooting tips, legal guidelines, and a detailed FAQ section to ensure you get complete clarity.
Why Karnataka Residents Need a Digital Driving Licence
Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s understand why downloading your driving licence digitally is essential:
- Legally Valid: As per the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH), digital driving licences stored in DigiLocker or mParivahan are legally valid.
- Convenience: No need to carry the physical DL everywhere. A soft copy is enough for police checks.
- Security: Reduced risk of loss or damage to your physical DL.
- Easy Access: Instantly available on mobile apps for verification.
- Multiple Use Cases: Can be used as valid ID proof for travel, banking, government services, etc.
Karnataka Driving Licence Download via Sarathi Parivahan
The Sarathi Parivahan Portal is the central government’s official platform for all driving licence services in India. Karnataka residents can download their DL directly from this portal.
Steps to Download DL via Sarathi Parivahan:
- Visit the official Sarathi Parivahan website.
- Select Karnataka from the list of states.
- Click on Driving Licence Related Services.
- Navigate to Print / Download Driving Licence.
- Enter the following details:
- Driving Licence Number
- Date of Birth
- Captcha code
- Authenticate using OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
- Once verified, click on Download Driving Licence PDF.
👉 This is the most preferred method for those who want a centrally verified copy of their Karnataka DL.
Karnataka Driving Licence Download via Karnataka Transport Portal
Karnataka also has its own dedicated Transport Department portal, which provides state-specific services for DL.
Steps to Download DL via Karnataka Transport Portal:
- Visit the official Karnataka Transport Portal.
- Select Driving Licence Services → Download / Print Driving Licence.
- Enter your DL Number and Date of Birth.
- Complete mobile authentication via OTP.
- Click Download PDF and save the file.
👉 This option is ideal for those who prefer a state-verified DL copy directly from the Karnataka government.
Karnataka Driving Licence Download via DigiLocker
DigiLocker is a flagship initiative under the Digital India program. It allows you to store and access government-issued documents online. Your driving licence downloaded via DigiLocker is legally valid.
Steps to Download DL via DigiLocker:
- Install the DigiLocker app (Android/iOS) or visit the DigiLocker website.
- Sign in using your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
- Navigate to Issued Documents → Driving Licence → Karnataka State Transport.
- Enter your DL details.
- Click Fetch Document to download your DL.
- Save it on your phone or print it if needed.
👉 This method is widely used by professionals who want their documents available anytime, anywhere.
Karnataka Driving Licence Download via mParivahan App
The mParivahan App by MoRTH provides a virtual DL that is accepted by traffic police across India.
Steps to Download DL via mParivahan:
- Install the mParivahan app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Enter your DL Number.
- Authenticate via OTP.
- Your virtual DL will be generated.
- You can save it as a PDF or image (JPG/PNG).
- Optionally, take a printout for offline use.
👉 This is best for those who want an instant virtual DL on mobile.
Download Learner’s Licence in Karnataka
Learner’s Licence (LLR) is the first step towards obtaining a permanent driving licence. You can also download your LLR digitally.
Steps to Download LLR in Karnataka:
- Visit the Karnataka Transport Portal or Sarathi Parivahan.
- Go to Learner Licence Services → Download Learner Licence.
- Enter your Application Number and DOB.
- Authenticate with OTP.
- Download the Learner Licence PDF.
Other DL Services in Karnataka
Apart from downloading DL, the Karnataka Transport and Sarathi portals allow you to access other DL-related services:
Renewal of DL
- Visit Sarathi / Karnataka Transport Portal.
- Upload Form 9 + expired DL.
- Pay renewal fee (~₹200).
- Download renewed DL PDF.
Duplicate DL
- File an FIR if DL is lost.
- Fill Form LLD and upload documents.
- Pay duplicate DL fee (~₹200).
- Download duplicate DL PDF.
International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Submit DL, passport, visa, and medical certificate (Form 1A).
- Pay IDP fee (~₹1,000).
- Download IDP PDF.
Change of Address in DL
- Apply via Sarathi or State Portal.
- Upload new address proof.
- Pay fee (~₹200).
- Download updated DL PDF.
Add Vehicle Class to DL
- Submit Form 8 + training certificate.
- Upload existing DL.
- Pay fee (~₹500).
- Download updated DL.
Printing Your Karnataka Driving Licence
After downloading the DL, you may want a printed copy.
- Open the downloaded PDF or image file.
- Press Ctrl + P (Windows) or Cmd + P (Mac).
- Select a printer.
- Ensure printing quality is clear and legible.
- Keep it laminated for long-term use.
Benefits of Digital DL in Karnataka
- Accepted by traffic police across India.
- Saves time during document verification.
- Reduces dependency on physical DL.
- Helps in emergencies if you misplace your original card.
- Recognized as valid ID proof.
Troubleshooting – Common Issues While Downloading
- Invalid DL Number: Ensure you enter the exact number printed on your licence.
- OTP Not Received: Check if your mobile number is updated with RTO records.
- Website Not Loading: Use a desktop/laptop or try at non-peak hours.
- Error in DL Details: You may need to file a correction request with the RTO.
Legal Validity of Downloaded DL
- As per the IT Act, 2000 and MoRTH guidelines, DLs available in DigiLocker and mParivahan are valid.
- Police officers across Karnataka accept both printed digital DLs and app-based virtual DLs.
- Courts also recognize them as valid legal documents.
FAQ
Q1. Can I drive in Karnataka with only a digital DL?
✅ Yes, DLs downloaded via Sarathi, DigiLocker, or mParivahan are legally valid.
Q2. What if I forget my DL number?
👉 You can check your DL number on the Karnataka Transport Portal or mParivahan app using your registered details.
Q3. Is DigiLocker DL valid for international travel?
❌ No. For driving abroad, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Q4. Can I renew my DL completely online?
✅ Yes, renewal can be done via Sarathi without visiting the RTO in most cases.
Q5. Is there any fee for downloading DL?
❌ No, downloading your DL PDF is free of cost.
Conclusion
The Karnataka Driving Licence Download process has been fully digitized, making it easier for residents to access, save, and verify their DL anytime, anywhere. Whether through Sarathi Parivahan, the Karnataka Transport Portal, DigiLocker, or mParivahan, citizens can quickly download both permanent and learner licences. With legal recognition across India, digital DLs offer convenience, security, and reliability.
By following this detailed step-by-step guide, Karnataka residents can ensure that their driving licence is always accessible, updated, and legally valid.