It is mandatory to have a driving license to streamline the road transport and traffic system in India. Earlier, one had to visit the RTO (Regional Transport Office) repeatedly for driving license-related services. However, due to digitization, most services are now available online at the Sarathi Portal (Parivahan/Sarathi Portal).
In this blog post, we will tell you how to apply online for driving license services, what services are available, what documents are required, what the fee is, and what important points to keep in mind while applying.
1. Why are driver's license services required?
A driving license is not only a document allowing one to drive a vehicle, but it is also used as a valid Identity Proof (ID Proof). From time to time, we may require driver's license services for several reasons:
- Renewal on **expiration** of license
- Adding **Additional Endorsement** for obtaining permission to drive a new vehicle
- Update the new address on the change of address form.
- Name correction after name change
- Making a duplicate license** when the license is lost or damaged
- Obtain an International Driving Permit for foreign travel
2. Advantages of Online Application
Earlier, RTOs used to have long queues, but now online services have many advantages:
- Time-saving: Can be applied while sitting at home
- 24x7 facility: Can complete the process anytime, any day
- Transparency: Can track application status
- Digital Receipt: Instant proof of payment
- Paperless Process: By scanning documents and uploading them, Physical paperwork is reduced
3. Application Process – Step-by-Step Details
For the online application, you have to follow the following "SEVEN STEPS":
3.1 Filling of Applicant/Request Details
- Log in to the portal.
- Enter your DL number, date of birth, mobile number, and other details accurately.
- A One-Time Password (OTP) will be sent to your mobile; enter it to begin the application process. the application process.
3.2 Uploading Documents
Different documents are required according to the type of service:
- Address proof: Aadhaar card, electricity bill, rent agreement
- For Name Change:Gazette Notification, Marriage Certificate, Affidavit
- For International Permit: Copy of passport, visa, flight ticket
Note: Scan all documents between 100 KB and 500 KB in size and upload them in the correct format (PDF/JPEG).
3.3 Uploading photos and signatures
- Attach a clear and recently taken passport-size photograph
- Make the digital signature in black ink and scan it clearly
3.4 Slot Booking (for AEDL only)
- Select your nearest RTO
- Book a slot as per your convenience at the available date and time
- Reach RTO on time and give a vehicle test
3.5 Payment of Fees
- Select online option for payment: Net Banking / Debit Card / UPI
- Enter correct details and get payment confirmation
3.6 Checking Payment Status
- Select the "Verify Pay Status" option on the portal
- If payment is pending, check again after some time
3.7 Printing Receipt
- Download the receipt
- Keep a hard copy of it for future reference
4. Detailed list of services and their description
4.1 Renewal of DL
- When required:Before license expires
- Required Documents: Old DL, Form 1A (Medical Certificate for 40+ Age)
- Validity:Private vehicle – 10 years, Transport vehicle – 5 years
4.2 Duplicate License (Duplicate DL)
- When to do: When the license is lost, stolen or damaged
- Documents: FIR copy (if stolen), old DL (if available)
4.3 Additional Support (AEDL)
- When to do: If you want to add a new vehicle category (like LMV to HMV).
- Test: Driving test is required
4.4 International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Validation: For 1 year
- Documents: Passport, Visa, Flight ticket
4.5 Change of Address
- Documents: New Address Proof – Aadhaar, Rent Agreement, Electricity Bill
4.6 Change of Name
- Documents: Gazette Notification, Marriage Certificate, Affidavit
4.7 Changing Photograph and Signature
- When to do: When the photo is old or the signature is changed
5. Required Documents – Complete List
| Service Name | Necessary Documents |
| --------------- | ------------------------------------ |
| Renewal | Old DL, Form 1/1A, proof of address |
| Duplicate DL | FIR Copy, Old DL |
| Change in address New Address Proof, Old DL |
| Change of Name | Gazette Notification, Marriage Certificate |
| International Permit | Passport, Visa, Photo, DL |
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