Renew Indian Driving License For NRIs

For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) planning to drive in India for an extended period, obtaining an Indian driver's license is essential. While an International driver's license is valid for only a year, a local Indian license offers long-term legality and protection. The process is simplified through the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways' Parivahan Sarathi portal, allowing applicants to complete most steps online. Whether applying for a learner's license, a full driver's license, or renewing an expired license, NRIs can conveniently navigate the procedure from start to finish. By understanding the requirements, preparing the necessary documents, and avoiding common mistakes, NRIs can ensure a smooth experience and drive legally and safely within India.

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Why Should NRIs Have An Indian Driver’s License?

NRIs should obtain an Indian driver's license if they want to stay in India for longer durations, as an International driver's license is valid up to one year from the date of issue. The NRI can get an Indian driver's license from the nearest transport office in India or start the application process online. You must first obtain a learner's license and then apply for a driver's license. Driving without a driver's license is illegal in India and can result in severe penalties, including fines, legal action, and imprisonment. Traffic violations or accidents while driving without a valid license can have more severe consequences.

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Eligibility Criteria To Get a License For NRIs in India?

The eligibility criteria depend on the type of vehicle one wishes to drive:

• To be eligible for a driving license to drive a motor vehicle other than a transport vehicle, an applicant must be eighteen years of age.
• An applicant over twenty years of age is eligible to apply for a license to drive a transport vehicle.

Note: If you are a diplomat, you can apply for a driver's license directly.

If you are a Non-Diplomat, you must apply for a Learner's License before proceeding with a Driving License.

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Process Of Applying For A Learner's License In India Online

By following the given steps, you can apply for a learner license in India:

Step One: Go to Parivahan Sarathi (https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/sarathiservice/stateSelection.do), a website by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways.

Step Two: Click on the "Apply for Learner License" tab.

Step Three: Fill in the necessary details, upload the required documents, and pay the fee.

Step Four: Schedule the learner's license test slot at your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO).

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Process Of Applying For A Driver's License In India Online

After getting a learner's license, one can apply for a driver's license in India. The process to apply for a driver's license online:

Step One: Go to Parivahan Sarathi (https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/sarathiservice/stateSelection.do).

Step Two: Click on the "Apply for Driving License" tab.

Step Three: Select the category (a)if holding a learner's license, (b)if holding a foreign DL, and (c) if holding a defence license; fill in the details accordingly.

Step Four: Fill in the applicant's details, upload the required documents, and upload a photo and signature if necessary.

Step Five: Select the driving test slot, pay the fee and print the receipt.

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Post Appointment Process For Driver's License Renewal

Once an applicant secures an appointment for a permanent driver's license in India, the following steps outline the typical process:

• Arrange documents and ID proofs.
• Reach the RTO on the appointment date with the type of vehicle the application relates to.
• Undergo the driving test under the guidance of an RTO officer.
• After successfully passing the test, submit biometrics and other details.
• After verification and approval, the driving license will be issued and delivered by post to the registered address.

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Process Of Renewing An Indian Driver's License Online

A renewal application can be submitted one month before the license expiry date or if it has already expired. The following steps detail the process to renew Indian driving license online: 

Step One: Go to Parivahan Sarathi (https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/sarathiservice/stateSelection.do), a website by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways.

Step Two: Click on the "Apply for DL Renewal" tab.

Step Three: Fill in the application by providing the DL number and pay the prescribed fee.

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Note: If the application is late for more than five years after the license expiry date, the applicant should undergo all the formalities to obtain a fresh license.

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List of Documents Required For Driver's License Renewal

Here is the list of documents required to renew an Indian driving license:

• Copy of Valid Age Proof (Birth Certificate, School Leaving Certificate, etc.)
• Copy of Valid Address Proof (Passport, Ration Card, Electricity / Telephone Bill, etc.)
• Two Recent Passport size Photographs
• Form 1A Medical certificate
• Form 2 in case of learner license/ DL/ Renewal of DL

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Common Mistakes To Avoid In The Process of Applying For Driver's License

Some of the most common mistakes to avoid are:

• Please provide complete and accurate information while completing the form online or offline. Enter the correct address, as the DL will be sent via post.
• Practice mock learner license tests online to familiarize yourself with the type of test.
• Don't miss the driving test appointment date, leading to scheduling another date.
• Understand the driving test requirements beforehand and practice before taking the test under the guidance of another person holding a DL.
• Some RTOs require biometric verification, including photo and fingerprint scans. Ensure you complete this step if needed.

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Conclusion

An NRI planning to stay in India for longer durations or who is fond of driving should apply for an Indian driver's license. The government of India has simplified the process considerably, helping NRIs start the process online through the Parivahan Sarathi Portal. An Indian driver's license provides legal protection and peace of mind for NRIs, ensuring they can drive safely and responsibly within the country's legal framework.

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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs): Renew Indian Driving License For NRIs

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How do I renew my Indian driving license if I'm abroad?

Indian driving license renewal from abroad can be done online by visiting the Parivahan Sarathi Portal of the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways.

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What documents are required for renewal of an Indian driving license?

Documents required for Indian driving license renewal are:

• Form 2
• Original Driving License
• Form 1 (Self-declaration of physical fitness)
• Two recent passport-size photo

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Is there a grace period for renewing an expired Indian driving license?

Yes, you can renew an expired Indian driving license within five years from the expiry date.

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Can I renew my Indian driving license online?

Yes, you can renew an Indian driving license online through Parivahan Sarathi of the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways.

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How long does it take to renew an Indian driving license?

It will take around 20 days to renew an Indian driving license.

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Can I renew an Indian driving license after it has expired?

Yes, an Indian driving license can be renewed after it has expired, but it should be renewed within five years.

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What is the fee for renewing an Indian driving license?

Indian driving license renewal fees are only ₹200 if renewed within the 30-day grace period. However, if you miss this period, the fee increases to ₹300. Furthermore, for each year or part of a year delayed beyond the grace period, an additional penalty of ₹1,000 is applied.

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Do I need to appear for a test to renew my Indian driving license?

No, you don't need to appear for a test to renew your Indian driving license, provided you do so within five years of its expiry.

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Can I renew my driving license if I change my address?

You can renew your driving license if you change your address online through the Parivahan Sarathi portal or in person at the Regional Transport Office (RTO). When applying for renewal, provide proof of the new address on the application form.

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How do I check the status of my driving license renewal?

The driver's license renewal status can be checked online through the Parivahan Sarathi website using the application number and other details.

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