A driving licence is an essential legal document required to operate a vehicle in India. Beyond driving authorization, it also serves as an official identity and address proof for various government and financial purposes. If you have recently moved to a new residence, it is important to update the address on your driving licence to ensure your records remain accurate and legally valid.
Thankfully, the Government of India has simplified this process through the Parivahan Sarathi online portal, allowing citizens to update their address on a driving licence without visiting the RTO in most cases. This digital process saves time, reduces paperwork, and ensures faster service delivery.
This article provides a complete step-by-step guide, required documents list, eligibility details, and useful tips for changing the address on your driving licence online.
Why Updating Address on Driving Licence Is Important
Updating your address ensures that:
- Your licence reflects your current residential address
- You receive official transport-related communication correctly
- Your driving licence remains valid as a legal address proof
- You avoid penalties or complications during verification
- Your records match other official documents like Aadhaar and Voter ID
If your permanent or temporary address has changed, updating it on your licence is both recommended and legally advisable.
Documents Required to Change Address on Driving Licence
Applicants must submit the following documents. Some requirements may vary by state:
Mandatory Documents:
- Application Form 33
- Driving Licence (DL) Details
- Proof of New Address (Aadhaar, Utility Bill, Passport, etc.)
- Valid Motor Insurance Certificate
- Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate
Additional Documents (State-Specific, If Applicable):
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from financier (if vehicle is under hypothecation)
- PAN Card Copy or Form 60/61
- Smart Card Fee Receipt
- Chassis & Engine Pencil Print
- Owner’s Signature Identification Proof
Note: Certain documents may be required only in selected states.
Step-by-Step Guide to Update Driving Licence Address Online
Step 1: Visit the Sarathi Parivahan Website
Go to the official portal:
https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
Step 2: Select Your State
Choose your state from the dropdown menu to proceed.
Step 3: Choose Contactless DL Services
Click on “Apply for Change of Address” under Contactless Driving Licence Services.
Step 4: Read Instructions and Continue
You will be redirected to an instruction page. Click “Continue” to proceed.
Step 5: Enter Driving Licence Details
Provide your:
- Driving Licence Number
- Date of Birth
- Captcha Code
Then click “Get DL Details.”
Step 6: Select the Service Option
From the available list, select “Change of Address.”
Step 7: Enter New Address
Fill in your updated residential address and captcha code, then click Submit.
Step 8: Save Application Number
Print or save the page displaying your application reference number for tracking.
Step 9: Upload Required Documents & Pay Fees
Upload scanned copies of the necessary documents and complete the online fee payment.
Step 10: Download Acknowledgement Receipt
After successful payment, download and print the acknowledgement receipt and verify all information.
Processing Time and Fee
The processing time typically ranges from 7 to 30 days, depending on state and workload. The fee amount may vary slightly between states and licence categories.
Once approved, you may receive:
- A digitally updated driving licence, or
- A new smart card licence delivered by post
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
- Ensure your address proof matches official records
- Upload clear and readable scanned documents
- Keep your mobile number active for OTP and status updates
- Save the application number for future tracking
- Double-check spelling and address details before submission
Final Thoughts
Updating your address on your driving licence online is a simple, efficient, and legally important process. With the Sarathi Parivahan portal, citizens can now avoid long queues and paperwork while ensuring their driving licence remains accurate and valid.
Keeping your licence information updated not only ensures legal compliance but also makes your document reliable for banking, identity verification, and official use.
