Maharashtra, the land of vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and historical landmarks, provides a variety of experiences for all travellers. From the bustling streets of Mumbai, known as the city that never sleeps, to the serene beaches of Goa, and the majestic forts of the Western Ghats, there’s no shortage of scenic places to explore in Maharashtra. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway to the hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala, or a cultural expedition in Pune, having a valid driving licence is essential to navigate these roads. If you’ve had your licence for a while now, it is a good idea to check for its validity, as driving with an expired licence can attract penalties. If your licence has expired, or is soon to expire, it is essential to get it renewed and comply with state driving laws. Let’s explore the process of renewing your driving licence in Maharashtra, covering everything from required documents to online and offline application methods.
What Documents do I Require to Renew a Driving Licence in Maharashtra?
To successfully renew your driving licence in Maharashtra, you’ll need to gather a few essential documents:
- Application Form: Fill out Form 9 for renewal of a driving licence
- Existing Driving Licence: Your original driving licence needs to be submitted
- Photographs: Three recent passport-sized photographs are required
- Age and Address Proofs: Documents like Aadhaar or passport are required for verification
- Medical Fitness Certificate: If the applicant is above 50 years of age, a medical certificate (Form 1A) is required
- Ensure you keep a copy of the receipt for the renewal fees
What are the Fees for Driving Licence Renewal in Maharashtra?
The fees to renew a driving licence in Maharashtra can vary based on the type of licence and the mode of application. Here’s a general breakdown:
| For a Non-Transport Licence (within 30 days of expiration) | ₹200 |
| For a Transport Licence (within 30 days of expiration) | ₹400 |
| After 30 days of the expiration of licence | Rs. 1000 (for each year passed from the date of expiry) + applicable fees |
| Additional Fees | If you require a smart card driving licence, there may be extra charges (around ₹200) |
| Test Fees | If applicable, there may be additional fees for a driving test |
It’s advisable to check the latest fee structure on the Maharashtra Transport Department’s official website, as these fees are subject to change.
How to Apply for a Driving Licence Renewal Online in Maharashtra?
Renewing your driving licence online is a convenient option, especially through the Sarathi Parivahan portal. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Visit the government online portal Parivahan.
Step 2: Select “DL Related Services” from the Online Services drop-down menu.
Step 3: Select your state of residence as Maharashtra.
Step 4: On the next page, click on “ DL Renewal”, read the instructions on the following page and click “Continue”.
Step 5: Fill in your DL number, date of birth and the captcha code and click “Get DL Details”.
Step 6: Verify the details, select state, category of DL and RTO. Click on the “Proceed” button.
Step 7: Choose the service type (DL Renewal) and fill out the online application form.
Step 8: Upload the relevant documents and click “Submit”.
Step 9: An application number will be generated. Download or print the acknowledgement receipt for future reference.
How to Apply for a Driving Licence Renewal Offline in Maharashtra?
If you prefer the traditional route, here’s how you can renew your driving licence offline:
Step 1: Visit your nearest local Regional Transport Office (RTO) Office
Step 2: Obtain the application form: Get Form 9 from the RTO or download it from the Maharashtra RTO Website.
Step 3: Fill the form with accurate information.
Step 4: Keep all necessary documents and attested copies handy.
Step 5: Hand in the form and documents to the RTO.
Step 6: Make the payment at the designated counter.
Step 7: Collect Acknowledgment: Keep the acknowledgement receipt for your records.
Remember, the offline process might take longer than the online one, so plan accordingly!
How to Check your Driving Licence Renewal Status in Maharashtra?
After applying for your driving licence renewal, you’ll want to track its status. Here’s how you can do that through the Sarathi Parivahan portal:
Step 1: Visit the Sarathi Parivahan Website.
Step 2: Select ‘Driving Licence Related Services’: Click on this option.
Step 3: Choose ‘Check Application Status’: Look for the option to check your application status.
Step 4: Enter Required Details: Input your application number and other required details.
Step 5: Submit: Click on submit to view your application status.
This will give you real-time updates on your application process.
What to Keep in Mind While Checking your DL Renewal Status Online?
While checking your driving licence renewal status online, consider the following tips:
Step 1: Application Number: Ensure you have your application number handy; it’s crucial for tracking your status.
Step 2: Official Website: Always use the official Sarathi Parivahan website to avoid misinformation.
Step 3: Multiple Attempts: If you don’t see your status immediately, try refreshing or checking back after a few hours.
Step 4: Updates: The status may take a few days to update post-application; be patient.
Following these tips will help you navigate the online status check smoothly.
What is the Validity of Driving Licences in India?
In India, the validity of a driving licence typically depends on the type of licence issued:
For Private Vehicles: A driving licence is usually valid for 20 years from the date of issue or until the holder reaches the age of 50, whichever is earlier.
For Commercial Vehicles: The validity is usually 5 years.
Renewal: It’s important to renew your licence before it expires to avoid penalties and ensure legal driving.
Always keep track of your driving licence’s expiry date, especially if you plan to travel across Maharashtra to explore its magnificent attractions.
