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Driving Licence Renewal In Chennai: Complete Guide

The article explains how to renew your driving licence in Chennai via online and offline modes, lists the documents needed, fees, and grace period, and highlights how to check application status easily.

  • 03 Jun 2025
  • 3 min read
  • 12 views

Renewing driving licence is a legal requirement for every driver in Chennai. If your licence is close to expiry, renewing it on time is the best way to avoid fines and retests. The process is now quicker, thanks to digital services and clear guidelines from the Regional Transport Office (RTO). Read on to know how you can complete your driving licence renewal in Chennai, both online and offline.

How you can renew driving licence online in Chennai?

Here are the steps to complete driving licence online renewal Chennai:

  1. Visit the official Parivahan Sewa website
  2. Click on “Drivers/ Learners Licence”
  3. Select Tamil Nadu from the drop-down list
  4. Select “Apply for DL Renewal”
  5. Read the instructions carefully and click “Continue”

Note: If you are above 40 years old and/or your driving licence contains transport vehicles, Form 1-A duly signed by an MBBS doctor is mandatory.

  1. Enter your licence number and date of birth
  2. Upload the required documents
  3. Pay the renewal fee online
  4. Download the acknowledgement slip

Once you complete the steps for driving licence renewal online, Chennai RTO will verify your documents and inform you once the licence is ready.

Steps to renew driving licence offline in Chennai

To apply for Chennai driving licence renewal in person, here’s what you need to do:

  1. Visit your Chennai RTO
  2. Ask for Form 9, or you can download the form from the Parivahan Sewa website.
  3. Fill and submit it along with other documents
  4. Pay the renewal fee and collect the receipt

The RTO will process your application and send your renewed licence to your registered address.

Note: The offline process for drivers licence renewal Chennai typically takes longer than the online method.

Documents required and appointment process for DL renewal in Chennai

You need to keep the following documents ready for a smooth Chennai driving licence renewal process:

  1. Form 9 (renewal application downloadable online)
  2. Original driving licence
  3. Three recent passport-size photos
  4. Proof of age and address (Aadhaar card, Voter's ID or Passport)
  5. Medical certificate (Form 1A) for those above 40 years or for transport vehicle owners
  6. Renewal payment receipt (for online applicants)

Appointment process

You can book an appointment for driving licence renewal online Chennai after submitting your application:

  1. Visit the Sarathi Parivahan portal
  2. Select Tamil Nadu from the drop-down list
  3. Click “Appointments”
  4. Click “Slot Bookings” from the taskbar and choose “LL/DL Service Slot Booking”
  5. Enter application number, date of birth and captcha
  6. Click “Submit” and select an appointment slot
  7. Visit the local RTO on the appointment date along with the required documents

Driving licence renewal fee in Chennai

The fee structure for drivers’ licence renewal in Chennai is:

Type of renewal

Fees (in ₹)

Non-transport vehicle renewal

500

Transport vehicle renewal

450

Smart card (optional, additional charge)

200

Fine after 30 days of expiry

300

Fine after 1 year of expiry

1,000

What is the grace period for renewing your DL in the state of Chennai?

The grace period for driving licence renewal in Chennai is 30 days from the date of expiry. If you apply within this time, you don’t have to pay the late fee or penalty as stated earlier.

Remember, if you apply after five years, you must start the process as a new applicant.

How do you check the status of renewing your DL in Chennai?

You can easily check your driving licence renewal Chennai online status. Here’s how:

  1. Go to the Parivahan Sewa portal
  2. Click on “Online Services” and select “Driving Licence Related Services”
  3. Choose “Tamil Nadu”
  4. Click on “Application Status”
  5. Enter your application number, date of birth and captcha code.
  6. Click “Submit” to view your renewal status.

FAQs

  • Can I renew my licence after it expires?

Yes. You can renew it within 5 years from the expiry date. Beyond this period, it will considered as a new application.

  • Can I update my address during the DL renewal?

Yes. You can update your address by submitting proof of address while renewing your licence.

  • Is a driving test needed for renewal?

No. You don’t have to take a test for regular Chennai driving licence renewal unless there is a gap of 5+ years.

  • How long is the renewed licence valid?

A private licence is initially valid for 20 years from the date of issue, or until the holder reaches 40 years old, whichever comes first.

  • Can I renew my commercial driving licence online?

Commercial licences may need extra documents. It’s better to visit the RTO directly.

  • What if I'm outside Chennai when my licence expires?

You can apply online from anywhere or authorise someone to submit on your behalf.

  • Is an eye test mandatory for renewal?

It's required only for those above 40 years of age.

Conclusion

Renewing your driving licence in Chennai is now easier than ever with the Pariwahan Sewa portal. Remember to start the renewal process before your licence expires to avoid penalties. While keeping your driving documents updated, don't forget about your car insurance. Just like your licence, your third-party car insurance needs regular renewal to keep you legally covered on the road. For better financial protection, consider comprehensive car insurance that covers third-party damages, your own vehicle, theft and natural disasters.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.

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