If your driving licence has been expired for over a year, you may be wondering how to get it renewed in 2025. The Ministry of Road Transport has updated its rules to streamline the renewal process while also tightening penalties and re-test requirements. Fortunately, it is still very much possible to regain your licence without starting the full application process from scratch.
This article provides a step-by-step guide on How to Renew Expired DL After 1 Year, including updated penalties, documents required, and the re-test procedure introduced under the 2025 RTO rules.
Understanding the 1-Year Expiry Rule
According to the new rules, if your driving licence is not renewed within one year from the date of expiry, it becomes invalid, and you may be required to reappear for the driving test. This policy ensures that only fit and informed drivers are allowed back on the road.
Key updates under the DL Renewal 2025 guidelines:
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Driving licence expired for less than 1 year: Can be renewed without retest.
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Licence expired for more than 1 year: Mandatory to take a fresh driving test.
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A late fee of ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 is applicable depending on the state.
This is why it’s important to act quickly if you’ve missed your renewal window.
Step-by-Step Guide to Renew Expired Driving Licence After 1 Year
To renew your expired DL in 2025, follow these steps:
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Visit the official Parivahan Sarathi portal and select your state.
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Click on “DL Services → Apply for DL Renewal”.
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Enter your DL number, date of birth, and other required details.
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Upload scanned copies of documents like:
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Expired DL
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Aadhaar card
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Age and address proof
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Passport-sized photograph
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Pay the required late fee and application charges (approx. ₹1,500).
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Book your driving test appointment, which is now compulsory for expired licences over 1 year.
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Appear for the test at the designated RTO and clear it to receive your new DL.
This entire process is part of the updated How to Renew Expired DL After 1 Year rule under the 2025 transport law.
Driving Test Details for Expired DL Cases
As per the DL Renewal 2025 rules, those renewing licences after one year of expiry must undergo a fresh driving test similar to the permanent licence process. Here’s what the test typically includes:
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Practical driving test on an RTO-approved track
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Parallel parking, reverse driving, and traffic rule demonstration
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AI-based scoring system in many states (no human examiner)
If you fail the test, you’ll be given another attempt after 7 days.
Penalty and Fine Details in 2025
Under the updated guidelines, the penalty for late renewal has increased:
| Duration After Expiry | Penalty Amount (Approx.) | Test Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 1 year | ₹300 to ₹500 | No |
| 1 to 3 years | ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 | Yes |
| More than 3 years | Fresh application needed | Yes |
These rates may vary slightly by state, so check with your local RTO while proceeding with the How to Renew Expired DL After 1 Year process.
FAQs
Is it compulsory to give a test if my DL expired more than a year ago?
Yes, under the How to Renew Expired DL After 1 Year rule in 2025, a fresh driving test is required if the expiry period exceeds 12 months.
Can I renew my DL online if it expired over a year ago?
Yes, you can begin the process online through the Parivahan portal, but you must visit the RTO physically for the driving test.
What if my DL expired more than 3 years ago?
If your licence expired more than 3 years ago, you will have to apply as a fresh applicant, including learner’s licence and all tests again.
How long does it take to get the renewed DL?
Once you pass the test, your renewed DL is issued within 7–10 working days either in physical or digital format.
Are the renewal rules the same for all states?
Core rules are the same across India, but some state RTOs have minor variations in fee structure and test formats.
Is there a penalty waiver for senior citizens?
In some states, senior citizens above 60 years may get partial fee exemptions, but the driving test rule still applies.
Click here to know more.