The Driving License (DL) is an official authorization issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) or Regional Transport Authority (RTA) under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. It gives you the legal right to drive a motor vehicle on Indian roads. The license also serves as a widely accepted identity document.

Through Parivahan Sewa, all driving license–related services are handled digitally using the SARATHI system. This eliminates the need for long queues at the RTO and reduces paperwork.

Key Services Offered on Parivahan Sewa

Here are some of the major services offered through the Parivahan Sewa portal and app:

Vehicle Registration Services

• Application for temporary and permanent registration
• Renewal of registration certificate
• Application for duplicate RC
• Transfer of ownership
• Change of address in RC
• Endorsing lease, HP, hypothecation agreements
• Application for NOC
• Surrendering of registration

Driving License Services

• Application for learner’s license
• Application for permanent driving license
• Renewal of driving license
• Application for duplicate driving license
• Addition of another class of vehicle
• Application for international driving permit
• Checking application status
• Booking slots for driving tests

Permits

• National permit authorization
• All India tourist permit authorization
• Applying for various permits like private service vehicle permit, national permit, all India permit etc.

Taxes and Payments

• Paying road tax
• Paying penalties and fines for traffic offences
• Paying taxes like border tax, green tax etc.

Certificates

• Applying for fitness certificate
• Applying for pollution under control certificate

Other Services

• Fancy or special number booking
• Status of vehicle recall campaigns
• Status of homologation applicants
• Dealership and automobile trade certificates
• VLTD, SLD and CNG cylinder maker authorization
• Grievance redressal

Types of Driving Licenses in India

A driving license is not a one-size-fits-all document. It is issued based on the type of vehicle you intend to drive.

A. Learner’s License (LL)

• This is a temporary license issued before you get a permanent one.
• It allows you to practice driving under the supervision of a permanent DL holder.
• Validity: 6 months (can be renewed in certain cases).
• Mandatory before applying for a permanent DL.
• A red-colored “L” must be displayed on the vehicle while practicing.

B. Permanent Driving License (DL)

• Issued after you hold an LL for the minimum period (30 days) and pass the driving test.
• Authorizes you to drive without supervision.
• Valid for 20 years or until you turn 40 (whichever comes first) for non-commercial vehicles.
• Can be renewed on expiry.

C. Commercial Driving License

• Required to drive transport or commercial vehicles (buses, trucks, taxis).
• Stricter medical fitness and age requirements (minimum age: 20 years in most states).

D. International Driving Permit (IDP)

• Allows you to legally drive in foreign countries that recognize IDPs.
• Valid for 1 year from the date of issue.
• Must be carried along with your original DL.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility depends on vehicle type and applicant’s age:

Documents Required

You’ll need to upload scanned copies (in specified formats) when applying online:

Proof of Identity (any one):

• Aadhaar Card
• Passport
• PAN Card
• Voter ID

Proof of Address (any one):

• Aadhaar Card
• Passport
• Utility Bill (Electricity/Water, not older than 3 months)
• Rental Agreement

Proof of Age (any one):

• Birth Certificate
• 10th Marksheet
• Passport

Other Requirements:

• Passport-sized photographs
• Existing Learner’s License (for Permanent DL application)
• Medical Certificate (Form 1A) for applicants above 40 years or for commercial licenses

How to Apply for a New Driving Licence or Learner’s License (LL)

If you want to apply for a new Driving Licence (DL) in India, you must first obtain a Learner’s Licence (LL). A Learner’s Licence is a mandatory prerequisite for all new drivers, as it certifies that you have basic knowledge of traffic rules and regulations. Once you receive your LL, you must complete the minimum learner period (usually 30 days) before applying for a permanent Driving Licence. To apply for a new Driving Licence or Learner’s Licence, visit the official transport portal and follow the steps provided below, ensuring that all documents, fees, and required tests are completed accurately.

Step 1) Go to the Parivahan Sewa website https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan/

• On the homepage, under “Online Services”, click on “Driving License Related Services”.

Step 2) New User Registration

• If you are visiting the website for the first time, you need to register as a new user.
• Click on “New User? Register here!”
• Enter your name, 10-digit mobile number, email ID.
• Select your state and RTO office.
• Enter the captcha code shown.
• Click on “Send OTP”.
• An OTP will be sent to your mobile number. Enter this OTP and click on “Verify OTP”.
• Set a password and confirm password. Click on “Submit”.
• Your user registration is complete. Note down the Application No. and password for future login.

Step 3) Login to your account

• Go back to the home page. Under “Existing User”, enter your Application No, password and captcha code.
• Click on “Login” to access your account dashboard.

Step 4) Start New Application

• Under the “Driving License” section, click on “Apply for New Driving License”

Step 5) Select Application Type

• Select the application type – New License or Additional Vehicle License.
• For new license, select whether you hold any existing license or not.
• Click “Submit”.

Step 6) Select License Type

• Choose the mode for license application – Aadhaar based online authentication or Offline through RTO visit.
• For fully online process, select Aadhaar option.
• Click “Submit”.

Step 7) Enter Aadhaar Details

• Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number.
• Click on “Generate OTP”. OTP will be sent to the linked mobile number.
• Enter the OTP and click on “Authenticate”.
• Your name, photograph and address from Aadhaar will be automatically fetched.
• Click on “Proceed”.

Step 8) Confirm RTO Office

• Based on the address in Aadhaar, your RTO office will be confirmed.
• Verify that the RTO office shown is correct and click “OK”.

Step 9) Fill Application Form

• The online driving license application form will open.
• Fill in all the required personal details like name, date of birth, identification marks, blood group accurately.
• Enter your present and permanent address details.
• Select the vehicle types you need a license for like motorcycle or car.
• Specify whether you have taken driving training or self-learned.
• Upload your medical certificate and parent/guardian consent if you are below 18 years.
• Click on “Submit” once all details are filled.

Step 10) Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies of documents like:

• Proof of age (SSC marksheet, birth certificate etc)
• Proof of identity (Aadhaar, PAN card etc)
• Proof of address (Aadhaar, passport, utility bills etc)
• Recent passport size photo
• Signature

Documents should be in PDF/JPEG/PNG format and within 500 KB size.

Click on “Submit” once all documents are uploaded.

Step 11) Pay Application Fees

• The applicable application fee will be shown.
• Select payment mode – SBI/UPI/Card/Wallet.
• Enter bank details, UPI pin, card details, wallet info as required.
• Make the payment for license application.
• Download the payment receipt.

Step 12) Book Test Slot

• Login to your account again.
• Under “Application Status” look for “Book Test Slot at RTO” option.
• Select your preferred RTO office, test type (4 Wheeler/2 Wheeler) and time slot.
• Complete the slot booking. Take printout of confimation receipt.

Step 13) Take Online Test

• On the test date, login to your account. Click on “Start Test”.
• Answer all multiple choice questions based on the traffic rules.
• Attempt mock tests for practice before final test.
• The test pass score is 80%.

Step 14) Download License

• Once you pass the test, the RTO will approve your application and license after document verification.
• You will receive an SMS/email notification for license approval.
• Login to account and download the e-license available under “My Applications”.
• Print the license or save digitally on your phone.

How to Apply for a Permanent Driving Licence

1. Hold LL for the Minimum Period
   • You can apply for a permanent DL after 30 days from the LL issue date.
2. Visit the Portal
   • Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in and select “Apply for New Driving License.”
3. Fill the Application
   • Enter personal details and LL number.
4. Upload Required Documents
   • Address proof, identity proof, LL, and photographs.
5. Pay the Fee
   • Permanent DL fee is generally ₹200 + test fee.
6. Book Driving Test
   • Select your RTO and available slot.
7. Appear for the Driving Test
   • Conducted by an RTO Inspector.
   • Includes vehicle control, reverse parking, hill start, and following traffic signals.
8. Issuance of DL
   • If you pass, the DL will be printed and sent to your registered address.

Renewing Your Driving License

• When to Renew:
  • Non-commercial DL: Valid for 20 years or till age 40. Renew every 10 years thereafter.
  • Commercial DL: Valid for 3–5 years depending on vehicle type.

Renewal Steps:

1. Visit Parivahan Sewa → “Driving License Renewal.”
2. Fill Form 9 (Application for Renewal).
3. Upload address proof, age proof, photographs, and Form 1A (if required).
4. Pay renewal fee (₹200 + late fees if applicable).
5. Visit RTO if physical verification is needed.
6. Renewed DL is sent to your address.

Duplicate Driving License

You may need a duplicate DL if:

• The original is lost or stolen.
• It is damaged, torn, or faded.

Steps:

1. Apply online via Parivahan Sewa → “Duplicate DL.”
2. Upload FIR copy (in case of loss), address proof, photographs.
3. Pay the fee (₹250 approx.).
4. Collect DL from RTO or receive it by post.

International Driving Permit (IDP)

If you plan to drive abroad:

• Apply via Parivahan or your RTO.
• Provide valid DL, passport, visa, and application form.
• Pay ₹1000 fee.
• Valid for 1 year; must be renewed after expiry.

Advantages of Using Parivahan Sewa for DL Services

• Time-Saving – No multiple RTO visits.
• Transparency – Track your application in real time.
• Convenience – Apply from home at any time.
• Digital Records – No fear of losing paper documents.

Common Problems & Solutions – Driving License Services

Problem 1: Application Rejected Due to Incorrect Documents

Why it Happens:

• Uploaded documents don’t match the details filled in the application.
• Low-quality scans or blurred images.
• Expired proof of address (utility bill older than 3 months).

Solution:

1. Recheck all your personal details before submission.
2. Scan documents in clear resolution (at least 150–200 DPI).
3. Use current documents (recent bills, updated Aadhaar).
4. Apply again with correct details — small errors like spelling mismatches can lead to rejection.

Problem 2: Unable to Book Driving Test Slot

Why it Happens:

• High demand in your city’s RTO.
• System glitches or temporary server downtime.

Solution:

1. Try booking early in the morning (slots often open at 6–7 AM).
2. Check alternative dates or nearby RTOs if your state allows it.
3. Clear browser cache or try a different device.

Problem 3: Driving License Not Delivered After Passing Test

Why it Happens:

• Delay in printing at the RTO.
• Postal delivery issues.
• Address mismatch or incomplete address.

Solution:

1. Track your DL dispatch status on sarathi.parivahan.gov.in under “DL Delivery Status.”
2. Contact your RTO if no update for 3+ weeks.
3. If postal delivery failed, request re-dispatch with updated address.

Problem 4: Lost Learner’s License Before Applying for DL

Why it Happens:

• Misplacement of physical LL copy.
• No digital backup downloaded.

Solution:

1. Log in to Parivahan Sewa and re-download your LL if your state supports it.
2. If not available online, visit RTO with ID proof and request a duplicate LL.

Problem 5: Failed Learner’s License Test

Why it Happens:

• Lack of preparation on traffic rules and signs.
• Nervousness during the test.

Solution:

1. Study the Road Signs & Traffic Rules PDF from Parivahan Sewa before reattempting.
2. Use practice test apps or mock tests available online.
3. You can reapply after a waiting period (varies by state).

Problem 6: Wrong Details Printed on Driving License

Why it Happens:

• Typing errors during application.
• Data entry mistakes at RTO.

Solution:

1. Apply for “Correction in Driving License” via Parivahan Sewa.
2. Upload correct documents for verification (proof with correct name/address).
3. Pay correction fee and get the updated license.

Problem 7: System Not Accepting Aadhaar for eKYC

Why it Happens:

• Aadhaar not linked to your mobile number.
• Name mismatch between Aadhaar and application form.

Solution:

1. Ensure your Aadhaar is updated and mobile-linked.
2. Match the spelling and sequence of your name exactly as in Aadhaar.
3. If mismatch persists, opt for manual document upload instead of eKYC.

Problem 8: Application Stuck in “Pending at RTO Level”

Why it Happens:

• Incomplete document verification.
• RTO backlog.

Solution:

1. Call or email your RTO with the application number.
2. Visit RTO if no update in 7–10 working days.
3. Carry originals for quick verification.

Note: Always download a digital copy of your driving license from mParivahan app or DigiLocker. It’s legally valid for verification and prevents issues in case the physical card is lost.

List of Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) in India – State & UT-Wise RTO Codes and Official Websites

Every vehicle owner in India interacts with the Regional Transport Office (RTO) for essential services such as driving licence issuance, vehicle registration, RC renewal, permit applications, and challan payments.
To help you easily locate the right transport office, here is a complete state-wise and union territory-wise list of RTO codes along with their official transport department websites.

This comprehensive directory is especially useful when checking RC details, applying for licences, verifying RTO information, or accessing any regional transport service online.

Here is a list of RTO codes for each state/UT along with their official websites:

Union Territories Regional Transport Offices (RTOs)

Vehicle Registration Services

Vehicle registration is a mandatory process in India that ensures every motor vehicle is legally recorded with the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and linked to its rightful owner. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and the respective State Transport Departments manage this process, which can now be done both offline (by visiting the RTO) and online (through the Parivahan Sewa portal).

Purpose of Vehicle Registration

The primary objectives of vehicle registration are:

• To establish the legal ownership of the vehicle.
• To ensure compliance with road safety and emission norms.
• To help authorities track vehicles in cases of theft, accidents, or criminal activities.
• To maintain a centralized database for taxation and regulatory purposes.

Types of Vehicle Registration in India

1. Temporary Registration
   • Provided by the vehicle dealer at the time of purchase.
   • Valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
   • Allows the owner to use the vehicle while applying for permanent registration.
2. Permanent Registration
   • Mandatory for all vehicles within 7 days of purchase (or before temporary registration expires).
   • Issued by the RTO of the jurisdiction where the owner resides or has a business.
3. Re-Registration
   • Required when a vehicle is transferred from one state to another.
   • Involves issuing a new registration number for the new state.
4. Renewal of Registration
   • Private vehicles must renew registration after 15 years from the first registration date and every 5 years thereafter.
5. Duplicate Registration Certificate (RC)
   • Issued when the original RC is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Documents Required for Vehicle Registration

While the exact list can vary by state, common documents include:

• Form 20: Application for registration.
• Form 21: Sale certificate issued by the dealer.
• Form 22: Roadworthiness certificate from the manufacturer.
• Address proof: Aadhaar card, passport, or utility bills.
• Valid insurance certificate.
• Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate.
• Invoice of the vehicle.
• Customs clearance certificate (for imported vehicles).
• Applicable road tax payment receipt.

Vehicle Registration Process

A. Offline Process at RTO

1. Visit the local RTO with the required documents and forms.
2. Submit the application along with road tax and registration fees.
3. Vehicle inspection by the Motor Vehicle Inspector to verify chassis number, engine number, and compliance.
4. Issuance of Registration Number (usually within a few days).
5. Receive the RC card or smart card.

B. Online Process via Parivahan Sewa Portal

1. Visit https://parivahan.gov.in.
2. Select the “Vehicle Registration” option under “Vehicle Related Services.”
3. Choose your state and RTO.
4. Fill in Form 20 online and upload scanned documents.
5. Pay the registration fees online.
6. Book an appointment for vehicle inspection.
7. Once verified, the RC will be sent to your registered address.

High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP)

Since April 2019, all new vehicles must be fitted with HSRP for better security and tracking.

• It has a unique laser code linked to the vehicle’s database.
• Prevents counterfeiting and makes theft recovery easier.

Vehicle Registration Number Formats

The vehicle registration number in India follows this pattern:
“AA 00 AA 0000”

• First two letters: State code (e.g., DL for Delhi).
• Next two digits: RTO code.
• Next two letters: Series code.
• Last four digits: Unique number.

Example: MH 12 AB 1234

• MH → Maharashtra
• 12 → Pune RTO
• AB → Series code
• 1234 → Vehicle number

Special Registration Numbers

• Some people prefer fancy numbers (e.g., 0001, 9999) for personal or business reasons.
• Available via online auction on the Parivahan portal.
• Charges vary by the number’s demand.

Penalties for Not Registering a Vehicle

As per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988:

• Driving an unregistered vehicle can lead to a fine of ₹5,000 for first offense and ₹10,000 for repeat offenses.
• The vehicle may be seized until registration is completed.

Key Points to Remember

• Always keep your RC, insurance, and PUC while driving.
• Renew your registration on time to avoid penalties.
• Use the Parivahan Sewa portal for quick, transparent, and hassle-free services.

Fees & User Charges of Trade Certificate/RC/ Transfer of Ownership/ Hypothecation/ LOA/ Renewal etc.

This detailed list covers all fees related to vehicle registration, trade certificates, fitness certification, hypothecation, and related RTO services. These charges help maintain accurate vehicle records, ensure road safety, and allow smooth processing of ownership transfers, address updates, and compliance procedures.

1. Trade Certificate Fees

A trade certificate is mandatory for vehicle dealers and manufacturers who temporarily use or transport unregistered vehicles. The following charges apply:

Additional Info:
Trade certificates must be renewed periodically, and dealers must ensure compliance to avoid penalties for using vehicles without proper authorization.

2. Registration Certificate (RC) – Issue / Renewal / New Registration Mark

A Registration Certificate (RC) proves ownership and legal registration of a vehicle. New or renewed RC fees vary by vehicle type.

Important Notes

• Smart Card RC (Form 23A): Add ₹200 extra.
• Late Renewal Fee:
  

  • Motorcycle: ₹300 per month

  • Other non-transport vehicles: ₹500 per month

Additional Info:
Smart card RCs provide better durability and machine readability. Timely renewal of RC is crucial because an expired RC may result in fines, and insurance claims can be rejected if RC validity is lapsed.

3. Duplicate RC / Transfer of Ownership / Address Change / Alteration

These fees apply when vehicle details change or documents are lost.

Notes

• Delay in NOC submission (Ownership Transfer):

  • Motorcycle: ₹300 per month

  • Other vehicles: ₹500 per month

• Delay in NOC submission (Address Change):

  • Motorcycle: ₹300 per month

  • Other vehicles: ₹500 per month

Additional Info:
Updating ownership and address records ensures accurate legal status of the vehicle. Delay in updating these details may cause issues during resale, insurance claims, or police verification.

4. Hypothecation / Lease / Bank Loan Endorsement Fees

Whenever a vehicle is financed, the hypothecation must be endorsed in the RC.

Note:
No extra fee is charged when removing hypothecation or issuing a fresh RC after loan closure.

Additional Info:
Hypothecation removal is crucial after loan repayment. Keeping it pending may cause delays in ownership transfer or resale.

5. Fitness Test & Certificate of Fitness

The fitness test ensures that vehicles—especially commercial ones—are roadworthy.

Note

• Delay in Fitness Certificate Renewal: ₹50 per day

Additional Info:
A valid fitness certificate is compulsory for commercial vehicles. Driving without a valid fitness certificate may lead to heavy penalties and suspension of permits.

6. Letter of Authority (LOA)

An LOA authorizes a workshop or vehicle testing station to operate as a certified facility.

Additional Info:
Only authorized workshops are permitted to conduct fitness-related inspections or repairs that are recognized by the transport department.

7. Appeals & Miscellaneous Applications

Additional Info:
Appeal fees apply when a citizen contests an RTO order. The miscellaneous application fee is applicable for general requests not listed in any category.

8. Renewal of Registration for Vehicles Older Than 20 Years

Vehicles over 20 years require renewal under stricter guidelines to ensure environmental and road safety compliance.

Additional Notes

• Medium, heavy, and imported vehicles include both transport and non-transport categories.
• Smart Card RC: Add ₹200 extra if issued.
• GST is applicable separately on all fees.

Additional Info:
Older vehicles undergo strict inspection due to higher emissions and safety concerns. Renewal at this stage ensures only roadworthy vehicles continue to operate.

Complete List of Parivahan, Sarathi & Vahan Forms (All Categories)

India’s transport system is governed by a wide range of standardized forms issued under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR). These forms are used for driving licence services, vehicle registration, permits, trade certificates, testing stations, and even vehicle recalls. To help citizens, dealers, transport agencies, and driving schools navigate these requirements easily, here is a clean, structured list of all Parivahan / Sarathi / Vahan forms, grouped category-wise.
Each form mentions its number and its purpose in a simple, understandable manner.

All Parivahan / Sarathi / Vahan Forms 

All the forms related details are provided below. Additionally, to view all Parivahan, Sarathi, and Vahar forms in one place, click here.

Driving Licence Forms

Motor Vehicle Dealer Related Forms

Vehicle Related Forms

Permit Related Forms

Vehicle Recall Forms

Permit Fees and Permit Validity- Local & National Permit

Transport permits are mandatory for operating different categories of vehicles, whether within the state (Local Permit) or across multiple states (National Permit). Each type of permit has specific fees, validity periods, and additional requirements. Below is a simplified and well-explained version of all related charges and rules.

1. Local Permit Fees and Validity

Local permits allow vehicles to operate within the boundaries of a particular state. The fees and permit periods differ as per the vehicle category.

Local Permit Fee Structure

These permits are ideal for businesses that operate goods vehicles within state limits.

2. National Permit Fees and Validity

A National Permit allows goods vehicles to operate across multiple states in India. This permit is especially beneficial for long-distance and inter-state transport businesses.

National Permit Fee Structure

Minimum Requirement for National Permit

To obtain a National Permit:

• The applicant must choose at least three additional states, excluding Delhi.
• A composite fee must be deposited through bank drafts as per the state guidelines.

3. Composite Fee for Different States

The composite fee is a mandatory payment for operating under a National Permit across multiple states. Below is the fee chart applicable in various states:

This fee must be deposited with the State Transport Authority (STA), Delhi.

4. Other Permit Types and Fees

Apart from Local and National Permits, there are various other permit categories with different fees and validity periods:

5. Permit Validity and Renewal Rules

All permits (except temporary permits issued under Section 87 or special permits under Section 88) are valid for 5 years from the date of issue or renewal.

Requirements for Permit Renewal

• Application (PRA) must be submitted.
• Renewal fee must be paid.
• All documents must be submitted 15 days before expiry.

Late Fee (if renewal fee is not paid on time)

For All India Tourist Permits, National Permits, and Interstate Permits, a late fee of ₹20 per day applies.

The fee for a duplicate permit is 50% of the original permit fee.

6. Vehicle Replacement Rules

Permit holders can replace a vehicle with another of the same type, after approval from the issuing authority.

• A 4-month window is allowed for replacement.
• After 4 months, a composition fee applies:

Permit restoration after long delay requires approval from the Competent Authority.

7. Requirement of PAN Card and Bank Account Details

As per STA Delhi’s Resolution No. 21/2006:

• A self-attested PAN card copy and Bank Account Number must be submitted:

  • At the time of permit grant,

  • Permit renewal,

  • Permit transfer.

• These details are maintained as part of the computerized official records.

8. Requirement of Speed Limiting Device

For certain categories of transport vehicles, installation of a Speed Limiting Device is mandatory for safety compliance and permit validity. (Specific rules depend on state transport guidelines.)