A driving license is a legal document that authorizes individuals to operate a vehicle on public roads. If your driving license has expired, you must renew it immediately to avoid fines, legal consequences, and potential disqualification from renewal. Under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, driving with an expired license is a punishable offense that can result in hefty fines and penalties.
State-Wise Penalties and Renewal Fees
The penalties and fees for driving with an expired license vary from state to state. Below is an approximate range of penalties in major states:
| State | Fine for Expired License | Renewal Fee |
| Maharashtra | ₹500 – ₹1,000 | ₹200 – ₹400 |
| Delhi | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹200 – ₹400 |
| Karnataka | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 | ₹250 – ₹500 |
| Tamil Nadu | ₹500 – ₹2,000 | ₹200 – ₹400 |
| West Bengal | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 | ₹200 – ₹400 |
How to Check Driving License Expiry Date Online
- Visit the Parivahan Sewa Portal (https://parivahan.gov.in)
- Click on ‘Driving License Related Services’
- Choose your state and RTO
- Select ‘Check Driving License Status’
- Enter your Driving License Number and Date of Birth
- Click on ‘Submit’ to view license details, including expiry date
Renewal for NRIs and Outstation Applicants
If you are an NRI (Non-Resident Indian) or currently living in a state different from where your license was issued, you must:
✔ Apply for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the original RTO ✔ Provide proof of residence in the current state or country ✔ Complete a driving test if required (in some states) ✔ Follow standard renewal procedures via the Parivahan Sewa Portal
For NRIs, renewal can sometimes be done through an authorized representative in India.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Renewal
🚫 Incorrect or incomplete documents – Ensure all forms and documents are properly filled and submitted. 🚫 Not renewing within the grace period – Renew within 30 days to avoid late fees. 🚫 Skipping medical fitness tests – Required for commercial vehicles and senior citizens. 🚫 Applying at the wrong RTO – Renewal must be processed at the RTO where your license was issued (or with an NOC for a different location).
Digital Driving License (DigiLocker & mParivahan)
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) allows digital versions of driving licenses via:
- DigiLocker App (Download from DigiLocker)
- mParivahan App (Available on Android & iOS)
A digital driving license stored in DigiLocker or mParivahan is legally valid, as per government regulations.
Consequences of Delayed Renewal
If you fail to renew your driving license within the grace period, you may face:
✔ Increased Late Fees – ₹1,000 additional fee after 5 years of expiry. ✔ Legal Trouble – If caught driving without a valid license, you may face fines and legal penalties. ✔ Higher Insurance Costs – Driving with an expired license could make your vehicle insurance claims invalid. ✔ Reapplication Process – If the license is expired for more than 5 years, you must reapply as a new applicant, including passing a fresh driving test.
(FAQs)
1. Can I renew my license after it has expired?
Yes, but if it’s expired for more than 5 years, you must apply for a new license.
2. How long does it take to renew a driving license?
The processing time is 7-30 days, depending on the RTO.
3. Do I need to take a driving test for renewal?
For private vehicles – No. For commercial vehicles – Yes, a medical fitness test is required.
4. What happens if I drive with an expired license?
You may face fines of ₹500 – ₹5,000, imprisonment, or both.
5. Can I renew my driving license in another state?
Yes, but you need an NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the original RTO.
