Driving Licence Renewal in Kerala: Online Process, Fees & Status

From the winding hill roads of Wayanad to the office-hour traffic jams of Kochi, driving in Kerala can range from (depending on your perspective) pure heavenly bliss to an arduous challenge. But that’s to be expected in a city with such a dense population and thick traffic concentration. Which brings us to the simple fact: People need to obey the traffic rules and regulations. A big part of which is, of course, taking care of your driving license renewal in Kerala.

A big part of that is knowing the correct renewal periods. 

As per the Kerala Motor Vehicle Department, a driving licence is valid for 20 years or until the holder turns 40, whichever comes first. After that, you’ll need to renew it every 10 years up to the age of 50, and every 5 years beyond that. The best part? The system now works for everyone. You can either go digital or visit your nearest RTO—both options are fully functional.

And yes, as always, there are consequences to expiry. An expired license is not considered valid for insurance claims. In fact, the Motor Vehicles Act itself imposes strict fines for using invalid licences. Traffic enforcement authorities can also impound your vehicle or deny insurance-related claims until a valid DL is presented.

Timely renewal ensures legal compliance and continuous access to driving privileges. Hence, as they say, the need is more than ever to keep your driving licence renewed.

Explore the blogs to learn all the ins and outs.

Not only is choosing how to renew your DL in Kerala uncomplicated, but it is also far easier than what people might initially think. Most importantly, you can do it both online and offline.

That’s right: You have the choice of renewing your driving licence online in Bangalore through the Parivahan portal, or visiting the nearest RTO under the Kerala Motor Vehicle Department.

Kerala Driving License Renewal Online

Here’s how you can complete your Kerala driving license renewal online through the Sarathi portal:

• Visit sarathi.parivahan.gov.in and select “Kerala.”
• Fill out the online form with your DL number and date of birth.
• Upload scanned documents including forms, photos, and address proof.
• Pay the required fee using UPI, card, or net banking.
• Book an RTO appointment for biometrics, if prompted.
• Keep checking your driving license renewal status Kerala through the portal.

Offline Application at Kerala RTO

If you’re more comfortable with in-person support, visit the nearest RTO branch—like those in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, or Kozhikode.

• Collect or download Form 2 for renewal.
• Submit your original DL, ID/address proof, passport-size photos, and medical fitness forms (if needed).
• Pay the fee at the counter.
• Collect your acknowledgment slip to track status.
  

Offline is especially useful if your documents require correction or if your DL was issued in another state.

Make sure to carry valid, updated documents to avoid delays. You need, as a responsible commuter, to be in acute position of all of these documents at all times.

Document/Form	Purpose
Form 2	DL renewal application
Form 1 (Self-declaration)	Declares physical fitness
Form 1A (for age >40 or commercial use)	Medical certificate by an authorised doctor
Original Driving Licence	Proof of existing DL
Address/ID Proof (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID)	Identity verification
Two Passport-size Photos	Recent colour photos
Fee Payment Receipt	Confirmation of payment

Make sure your ID and DL details match. For licences issued outside Kerala, an NOC may be requested.

How to Renew Your Driving License Online in Kerala: Step-by-Step

Wondering how to renew a driving license online in Kerala? 

While urban professionals are mostly internet savvy in many aspects. That savvy has to extend to knowing just how to renew a driving licence online in Kerala. In case you aren’t among them, make sure to add yourself to the list.

Here’s the full how to renew a driving license online in Kerala:

Step	Action
1	Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in → Select “Kerala”
2	Click “Renewal of DL” → Enter DL number, date of birth, and captcha
3	Upload scanned copies of Form 1/1A, ID/address proof, and photo
4	Pay the kerala driving license renewal fees (₹200–₹300 depending on timing)
5	Book an RTO biometric appointment if prompted
6	Visit the RTO with your documents and receipt for verification
7	Your renewed DL will be sent by post within 15–30 working days

This process is applicable for both light motor vehicles and two-wheelers.

If your licence has already expired, don’t panic. You still have a chance.

• The grace period is 30 days post-expiry. Renewal during this time only costs ₹300.
• If you exceed the grace period, an additional fine of ₹1,000 per year (up to 5 years) applies.
• After 5 years, you may need to reapply for a fresh licence altogether.
  

So if you’re wondering how to renew expired driving license in Kerala, act before it becomes a bigger hassle.

Here’s a breakdown of current official fees and penalties. Make sure to know what they are (and how to avoid them at all costs). Learn all about the driving license renewal fees in Kerala:

Scenario	Fee (₹)	Penalty (if applicable)
Within validity	200	—
Within 30-day grace period	300	—
More than 30 days to 1 year expired	300	—
1 to 5 years expired	300	₹1,000 per year late fee

Always confirm updated rates via the Kerala Motor Vehicle Department driving license renewal notifications.

Keeping track of your driving license renewal application status is simple. Use any of these methods:

Parivahan Portal

• Go to “DL Services” → “Application Status”
• Enter your DL number and DOB to get your status
  

mParivahan App

• Install the app and navigate to “Driving Licence”
• Tap on “Renewal Status” to track progress

For official updates, visit Kerala MVD’s site at mvd.kerala.gov.in.

FAQs: Kerala Driving Licence Renewal

Let’s answer the most common questions on licence renewal that most urban commuters ask regularly:

1.Can I renew my licence online in Kerala?

Yes, through the Sarathi portal. Most private and transport vehicle types are supported.

2.What is the fee for DL renewal in Kerala?

₹200 if renewed on time, ₹300 after expiry. A ₹1,000/year penalty applies beyond grace.

3.How long does it take to receive a renewed licence?

Typically 2–4 weeks by post, depending on verification and postal processing.

4.Is biometric appointment compulsory?

Only if prompted by the portal. Most applicants may be exempt depending on profile and documents.

5.What if my old licence was issued outside Kerala?

An NOC (No Objection Certificate) may be required from the issuing state.

• There are two Methods of driving licence renewal: Renew online via Parivahan Sarathi (₹200) or offline at Bangalore RTO.
• The Grace Period is Important to Notice: 30 days post-expiry; late fees apply beyond.
• It’s Important to Keep the Forms & Documents in Hand: Form 2, Form 1 (Form 1A if needed), ID/address proofs, photos.
• Make Sure to Keep Track of Appointment Slots: Required only if biometric verification is needed.
• Make Sure to Track Your Status Regularly: Use the Parivahan portal, the mParivahan app, or SMS service.
• It’s important to be Proactive About Renewal: Ensures continuous insurance cover and avoids fines.

Drive Compliant, Drive Green with Ecozaar

Whether you’re navigating a hairpin curve in Idukki or heading to work in Trivandrum, keep your papers updated and legal. Renew your DL on time to ensure seamless insurance, road safety, and peace of mind.

Stay informed. Drive legally. For more info on licensing, road tax, EV subsidy updates, and other legalities, stay tuned with Ecozaar.