How to Renew Driving Licence in Kerala

Steps for Driving Licence Renewal Online in Kerala

Renewing your driving licence online is an easy and time-efficient option. The Kerala State Government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), has streamlined the DL renewal process online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Step 1: Visit the Parivahan Portal: Go to the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) at https://parivahan.gov.in. This portal handles driving licence services across India.

• Step 2: Select Kerala as Your State: Look for the dropdown menu on the homepage to choose your state. Select Kerala from the list to be redirected to the Kerala Transport Department’s page.

• Step 3: Click on ‘Apply for DL Renewal’: Click on the option to apply for DL renewal to start the renewal process.

• Step 4: Provide Your Driving Licence Details: You will be prompted to enter your DL number, date of birth, and other required personal details. Ensure the details match your current driving licence to avoid any issues.

• Step 5: Upload the Required Documents: Upload scanned copies of the necessary documents for verification. These documents will be listed below.
   
• Step 6: Pay the Renewal Fee: You can pay the renewal fee online via debit/credit cards, net banking, or UPI.
   
• Step 7: Book an Appointment (If Needed): If biometric verification (fingerprints and photos) is required, you must schedule an appointment at the nearest RTO office. You’ll be prompted to select a time slot.
   
• Step 8: Receive the Acknowledgement: Once the application is complete, you will receive an acknowledgement receipt with a reference number. You can track your application status using this number.
   
• Step 9: Receive Your Renewed Licence: Your renewed driving licence will be sent to your registered address after processing. This process may take a few weeks, depending on the RTO workload.

Steps for Driving Licence Renewal Offline in Kerala

While online renewal is more convenient, you can also personally renew your DL at your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO). Here are the steps for offline renewal:

• Step 1: Visit the Nearest RTO: Go to your local RTO office during working hours. A list of RTOs in Kerala is available on the official transport department website. Bring all the necessary documents with you.
   
• Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form: At the RTO, fill out Form 9, the application for DL renewal. This form is available at the RTO office or can be downloaded from the Kerala Transport Department website.
   
• Step 3: Submit the Required Documents: Submit your documents as mentioned below.
   
• Step 4: Pay the Renewal Fee: The renewal fee depends on the licence type and vehicle category. You can pay this fee using cash, cheque, or demand draft at the RTO counter.
   
• Step 5: Biometric Verification: If needed, you will undergo biometric verification, including photo and fingerprints, at the RTO.
   
• Step 6: Acknowledgement Receipt: Once the documents are verified, you will receive an acknowledgement receipt. Keep this receipt as proof of your application.
   
• Step 7: Collection of Renewed DL: Once processed, your renewed DL will be sent to your registered address. Alternatively, you may be required to collect it from the RTO office.

Documents Required for DL Renewal in Kerala

Certain documents must be submitted to ensure a smooth process for renewing a driving licence (DL), whether online or offline. These typically include:

• Driving Licence

Upload a scanned copy of your current driving licence for verification.

• Application Form 2 

Complete Form 2, the formal application for DL renewal. This form can be downloaded online or filled out at the RTO.

• Proof of Identity
• A government-issued ID is required as proof of identity. Acceptable documents include:
• Aadhaar card
• Passport
• Voter ID
• PAN card or any other government-recognised identification.
   
• Proof of Address
• Submit a recent document showing your current address. Acceptable documents include:
• A recent electricity bill
• Water bill
• Bank statement
• Aadhaar card (if it shows your current address)
   
• Passport-Sized Photographs: 

Generally, 2-3 recent passport-sized photographs are required. Ensure the photos have a white background and are of good quality.

• Medical Certificate (If Applicable)

If you are over the age of 50, you will need to submit a Medical Certificate from a registered medical practitioner. Form No. 1 (Self-declaration of physical fitness) is required for non-transport vehicles, while Form 1A (Medical Certificate) is mandatory for transport vehicles to ensure you are medically fit to drive. The certificate should be no older than one month from the date of application.

Driving Licence Renewal Fees in Kerala

The renewal fees depend on the type of vehicle, licence class, and renewal timing. Additional charges may apply for late renewals or changes in licence categories.

Grace Period for Renewal of Driving Licence in Kerala

The Kerala Transport Department provides a structured process for renewing a driving licence. Below are the key details:

• You can apply for renewal up to one month before the licence expiry date.
   
• If you apply after expiry, a late fee of ₹300 will be charged during renewal.
   
• If the delay in renewal exceeds 5 years, you must complete the full process for obtaining a new licence, which includes:
  • Passing a driving test.
  • Submitting additional documents as required.

Timely renewal is advised to avoid late fees and the need for requalification.

DL Renewal Kerala: How to Schedule an Appointment Online

For applicants who need biometric verification or other services, here’s how to schedule an appointment: Visit the official portal, select your required service, and choose a convenient date and time.

• Visit the Parivahan Portal at https://parivahan.gov.in.
   
• Choose ‘Kerala’ as your state.
   
• Click on ‘Driving Licence Related Services.’
   
• Enter your DL number and date of birth.
   
• Select ‘Book Appointment’ for biometric data collection or other services.
   
• Choose a convenient time slot for your appointment at the nearest RTO.

How to Check Driving Licence Renewal Status in Kerala

To check the status of your DL renewal:

• Visit the official Parivahan website at https://parivahan.gov.in.
   
• Click on Driving Licence Related Services.
   
• Select Track Application Status.
   
• Enter your application number or DL number.
   
• View your DL renewal status.

Validity of a Driving Licence in Kerala

The validity of a driving licence in Kerala depends on the type of vehicle. Here are the details:

• Private Vehicles (Cars and Motorcycles):
  • The licence is valid for 20 years or until the holder reaches 50, whichever comes first.
     
  • After this period, the licence must be renewed.
     
• Commercial Vehicles (Buses and Trucks):
  • The licence is valid for 3 to 5 years, depending on the vehicle type.
     
  • Renewal may require:
    • Health tests to ensure fitness.
    • In some instances, retaking the driving test.

It is crucial to renew your licence before it expires to avoid fines or legal issues associated with driving with an expired licence.

Learner’s Licence Renewal in Kerala

Renewing a learner’s licence in Kerala involves the following key details:

• A learner’s licence is valid for six months from the date of issuance.
   
• During this time, the licence holder must practice driving under supervision and pass the driving test to obtain a full driving licence.
   
• If the test is not passed within six months, the applicant must apply for a new learner’s licence.
   
• In exceptional cases, such as for medical reasons, the RTO may extend the validity of the learner’s licence. However, such extensions are not guaranteed and are at the discretion of the RTO.
   
• It is strongly recommended that the driving test be completed within six months to avoid the inconvenience of reapplying.

Efficient preparation and timely action can ensure a smooth transition to a full driving licence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore More:

Renew Driving Licence in Telangana

Renew Driving Licence in Haryana

Renew Driving Licence in Punjab