How to Change/Update Name on Driving Licence in India

Posted on: Sep 21, 2023 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

How to Change/Update Name on Driving Licence in India

As an Indian citizen, certain documents are quintessential to hold. This includes Aadhar cards, PAN cards, etc. One such important document is a driving license if you wish to drive a motor vehicle on the road. Once you have received the driver's license, make sure to check all the details printed on it. Receiving a DL with a wrong name or misspelt name can be stressful. However, you need not worry; changing/updating your name on your driver's license is relatively easy.

There are various reasons why a driving license holder may want to change or update their name on it. However, you must have a valid and legal reason behind it. This article will guide you on how to update the name in driving license.

As per the Motors Vehicle Act of 1988, all motor vehicles must have a valid insurance policy (minimum of a third-party cover). So, if you are looking for one, car insurance offered by HDFC ERGO can be your one-stop solution. Check out the range of customisable third party car insurance policies.

Different Ways to Update Name on a Driving Licence

Changing the name on your driving licence can be necessary due to various reasons such as marriage, divorce, or legal name change. Here are the steps and methods to update your name:

1. Check Eligibility:

Ensure you meet the criteria for a driving licence name change, such as legal name change documentation.

2. Gather Required Documents:

Collect necessary documents like marriage certificate, gazette notification, or court order for name change.

3. Application Form:

Fill out the application form for a name change, available on the transport department's website or at the local RTO office.

4. Pay Fees:

Be prepared to pay a nominal fee for processing the name change on your driving licence.

How to Change the Name on Driving Licence Online?

If you prefer the convenience of completing the process from home, follow these steps to change your name on a driving licence online:

1. Visit the Transport Department Website:

Go to the official website of your state's transport department.

2. Login or Register:

Create an account or log in using your existing credentials.

3. Select Name Change Service:

Navigate to the 'DL Name Change' option under the driving licence services section.

4. Upload Documents:

Upload scanned copies of the required documents for verification.

5. Pay the Fee:

Pay the processing fee through the online payment gateway.

6. Submit Application:

Submit the application and keep the acknowledgement receipt for future reference.

How to Change the Name on Driving Licence Offline?

For those who prefer handling the process in person, here are the steps to change your name on a driving licence offline:

1. Visit Local RTO:

Go to your local Regional Transport Office (RTO).

2. Fill Application Form:

Obtain and fill out the application form for changing name in driving licence.

3. Submit Documents:

Submit the form along with required documents like proof of name change.

4. Pay Fees:

Pay the applicable fee at the RTO.

5. Verification Process:

The RTO will verify the documents and process your request.

6. Collect Updated Licence:

Once processed, you can collect your updated driving licence from the RTO.

Additional Tips

To ensure a seamless transition, consider these additional tips when updating your name on a driving licence:

1. Inform Car Insurance Provider:

Notify your car insurance provider about the name change to avoid issues with claims.

2. Update Third Party Car Insurance:

Ensure that third-party car insurance details reflect your new name.

Documents Required

When you apply for a change of name on the driving license, you need to submit a few documents as well. These include:

1. Aadhaar card

2. Results of class 10th or 12th

3. A copy of passport (if available)

4. The birth certificate

In the case of women applicants, keep the following documents handy:

1. Previously submitted documents

2. Divorce decree (if it is the reason for name change/update)

3. Marriage or remarriage certificate (if it is the reason for the name change/update)

4. Death certificate of the spouse (if it is the reason for the name change/update)

A marriage or divorce certificate is required since women often change their surname after their marriage or divorce. In such a case, the documents mentioned above have to be presented.

Usually, these are the only documents asked. You may be asked to submit any additional document if required.

How Long Does It Take to Change the Name on a Driving Licence

The time it takes to change your name on your driving license in India can vary, but it typically takes around 15 to 30 days. The exact timeline depends on the workload at the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and how efficient the verification process is.

Fees for DL Name Change

The fee for changing your name on your driving license (DL) in India is Rs. 200 and is the same across the country. This fee also applies to other changes you may want to make to your DL, such as changing your address, date of birth, or father's name.

How to Check the Status

Now that you know how to update your name on your driving license, you must also be aware of how to check the status of your application. Yes, until you receive your updated driving license, you can keep a tab on the status of your request. The following are this process:

1. Visit the official website 'Parivahan'

2. Click on the 'Online Services' option on the homepage

3. Click on the 'driving license related services' from the drop-down menu

4. Enter the concerned state

5. Now, you will be asked to enter your application number, date of birth, and the captcha code. Click on 'proceed'

6. Your application will appear on the screen with the current status.

Conclusion

You need not get anxious if you have received a driver's license with a misspelt name. You can quickly and easily apply for the correction. There can be various reasons for changing or updating a driving license name, as discussed above. Make sure to do the needful soon. Hopefully, by now, you are aware of how to change the name in driving license.

FAQ

1. Is mentioning a reason required to change/update the name on my driver's license?

Yes. Since a driver's license is an essential document, anyone who plans to change or update their name on the driver's license needs to mention a legal reason for the same.

2. Can I change my surname on the driving license after marriage?

Yes. You may change/update your driving license surname after marriage via either online or offline methods with supporting documents.

3. How do I go about changing the name on my driving licence after a marriage or other name change?

• To change the name on your driving licence after marriage or any other name change, you need to fill out the D1 application form available from the DVLA website or post office. You will also need to provide supporting documents, including your marriage certificate or deed poll. Once you have these documents ready, you can send them along with the application form to the DVLA.

• The process of changing your name on your driving licence involves filling out the D1 application form with your updated details, providing necessary supporting documents, and sending them to the DVLA for processing. You can expect to receive your updated licence within 3 weeks, although this timeline may vary depending on the volume of applications being processed.

4. Can you walk me through the process of how to change name on driving licence?

• To change the name on your driving licence after marriage, you will need to submit the necessary documents and a completed application form to the relevant licensing authority.

• The process of changing your name on your driving license involves filling out an application form, providing proof of your name change, and submitting it to the appropriate licensing agency.

5. What documents do I need for a DL name change, and how long does it take to get the updated license?

To change your name on your driver's license, you will typically need to provide documents such as your current license, proof of name change (like a marriage certificate), and a completed application form. The processing time for updating your license can vary depending on the state or country you are in, but it generally takes around 2-4 weeks to receive the updated license after submitting all required documents.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

Steps to Link Your Aadhaar Number and Driving Licence

Recent Changes in Driving Licences in India

Number Plate Rules in India: Compliance Guide

Car Insurance Background Checks: All You Need to Know

A Step-by-Step Process for Completing RTO Form 34