Driving Licence in India by State (2026) | Zuno

Written by Suchika Rajoria, Direct Marketing Manager at Zuno General Insurance · Last updated July 2026 · IRDAI Reg. No. 159

Driving Licence in India by State (2026)

A driving licence in India is issued by the state Transport Department through Regional Transport Offices under the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, and applied for on the national Sarathi portal. The process, licence classes and validity periods are the same across the country; what changes by state is the RTO you attend for the test and biometrics. These guides cover the driving licence process for every state and union territory.

Choose your state — 36 guides

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a driving licence stay valid in India?

A private driving licence is valid for 20 years or until you turn 50, whichever is earlier, then renewed every five years. A learner's licence lasts six months and a transport licence three years.

Is the driving licence process the same in every state?

Yes. It follows the Central Motor Vehicles Rules nationally and runs on the Sarathi portal. Only the RTO you visit for the test and biometrics is local to your state and address.

Does my driving licence affect my car insurance?

Yes. A valid licence for the vehicle class is required for a motor own-damage claim to be honoured.

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Sources: Content based on information published by IRDAI, ARAI, MoRTH, Parivahan Sewa, General Insurance Council (GIC), and other relevant regulatory or industry sources, as applicable.

Disclaimer: Premiums and amounts shown are indicative and approximate reference figures only; the actual figure varies with the vehicle's age, No Claim Bonus, geography (RTO zone) and various other parameters. The company offers products under Motor, Health, and Commercial Insurance. For risk factors, terms and conditions, exclusions, and product features, please read the policy wording, sales brochure, and prospectus carefully before concluding a sale. Zuno General Insurance Limited | IRDAI Reg. No. 159 | CIN: U66000MH2016PLC273758 | Registered Office: 2nd Floor, Tower 3, Wing B, Kohinoor City Mall, Kohinoor City, Kirol Road, Kurla (West), Mumbai 400070 | Toll-Free: 1800 12000 | Landline: 022 42312000 (Call charges applicable) | Website: www.hizuno.com | Email: support@hizuno.com.

Section 41 of the Insurance Act, 1938: No person shall allow or offer to allow, directly or indirectly, as an inducement to any person to take out, renew, or continue an insurance policy in respect of any kind of risk relating to lives or property in India, any rebate of the whole or part of the commission payable or any rebate of the premium shown on the policy, nor shall any person taking out, renewing, or continuing a policy accept any such rebate.