Guide to Renewing Your Driving Licence in Maharashtra

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:

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.

FAQs

Q. When to check your driving licence renewal status in Maharashtra?

It’s a good idea to check your driving licence renewal status about 5 to 7 days after you’ve submitted your application. This gives the authorities enough time to process your request. Just head over to the Sarathi Parivahan portal and enter your application number. If you don’t see any updates yet, don’t worry, sometimes it can take a little longer. 

Q. Can I drive with an expired driving licence while waiting for the renewal in Maharashtra?

Driving with an expired licence is technically illegal, even if you’ve applied for a renewal. It’s best to avoid driving until you receive your renewed licence. If you find yourself in a pinch, consider using public transportation or asking a friend for a ride. 

Q. Can I renew my driving licence if I have outstanding traffic fines?

Yes, you can renew your driving licence in Maharashtra even if you have outstanding traffic fines. However, it’s always a good practice to clear any fines as soon as possible. This helps you maintain a clean driving record and avoid complications in the future. 

Q. How do I download my driving licence on DigiLocker?

Downloading your driving licence on DigiLocker is simple and convenient! First, make sure you have downloaded the DigiLocker app, whether on Android or iOS. Then, log in to your DigiLocker account or create one if you haven't already. Then, select the option to “Get Issued Document” and search for your driving licence under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Once you find it, you can download it directly to your device. 

Q. Do I need to retake the driving test for licence renewal?

Typically, you don’t need to retake the driving test for licence renewal in Maharashtra unless your licence has been expired for an extended period (usually more than a year) or if you’re renewing for a different class of vehicle. In most cases, the renewal process is straightforward and doesn’t require a retest. 

Q. Can I renew my driving licence in Maharashtra after its expiry date?

Yes, you can renew your driving licence even after it has expired, but it’s advisable to do so as soon as possible. Delaying the renewal can lead to penalties or legal action when you get pulled over by the traffic police. Try to renew it within the grace period, which is generally up to 30 days post-expiration. If you wait longer, you might need to provide additional documentation or undergo a driving test.

Q. How long does it take to receive a renewed driving licence in Maharashtra?

Once your renewal application is processed, you can expect to receive your renewed driving licence within 7 to 14 working days. However, this timeline can vary depending on the workload at your local RTO. You’ll receive a notification once it’s ready for collection, so keep an eye on your registered email or mobile number.

Q. What should I do if I encounter issues while renewing my driving licence online in Maharashtra?

If you face any issues while renewing your driving licence online, don’t panic! Start by double-checking the information you’ve entered; sometimes, small errors can cause hiccups. If problems persist, try clearing your browser cache or using a different browser. For more serious issues, you can contact the customer support service through the Sarathi Parivahan portal or visit your local RTO for assistance. 

Q. What is the grace period for DL renewal in Maharashtra?

In Maharashtra, there is typically a grace period of up to 30 days after the expiry date of your driving licence. During this time, you can renew your licence without facing penalties. It’s best to renew your DL within this period to avoid any complications later. After the grace period, you may have to go through additional procedures to renew your licence.

Q. Where can I download forms to apply for DL renewal?

You can download the forms for driving licence renewal from the official Maharashtra Transport Department website or directly from the Sarathi Parivahan portal. Navigate to the ‘Forms’ section, and you’ll find Form 9, which is specifically for licence renewal. If you prefer, you can also pick up physical copies of the forms at your local RTO office.