name change in driving licence

Guide to Driving License Name Change, Address, and DOB Correction (2026)

Imagine you are at a traffic checkpoint or applying for a passport, only to realize that your driving license name change was never updated, or your Date of Birth (DOB) has a typo. Such small discrepancies can lead to massive legal headaches and insurance claim rejections.

Whether you have recently married, moved to a new city, or noticed a clerical error on your DL, keeping your records updated on the Parivahan portal is a legal necessity. This guide covers everything from change name on driving licence to correcting your address and DOB.

Common Reasons for DL Corrections

Before we dive into the "how-to," let’s look at why users typically seek a dl name change or other corrections:

  • Marriage/Divorce: Post-marriage surname changes or reverting to a maiden name.
  • Relocation: Moving to a new permanent residence in a different city or state.
  • Clerical Errors: Typographical mistakes made during the initial DL application.
  • Legal Identity Change: Formally changing your name for personal or religious reasons.

Required Documents Checklist

Accuracy starts with documentation. Here is what you need to keep ready:

Correction Type Primary Document Required
Name Change Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, or Gazette Notification
Address Change Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, or Registered Rent Agreement
DOB Correction Birth Certificate, SSLC Book, or Passport
Common Needs Original DL, Application Form LLD, and 3 Passport Photos

Step-by-Step Process to Update Your DL (Online/Offline)

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has simplified the process via the Parivahan Sewa portal.

  • Visit the Portal: Go to the official Parivahan website.
  • Select Services: Navigate to ‘Driving Licence Related Services’ and select your State.
  • Choose Correction: Click on ‘Services on DL’ and select the specific option for driving license name change, address change, or DOB update.
  • Enter Details: Provide your DL number and current DOB to fetch your data.
  • Upload & Pay: Upload scanned copies of your proofs and pay the processing fee.
  • RTO Visit: In most states, you must book a slot to visit the RTO for biometric verification and submitting original documents.

Understanding the Gazette Notification for Name Change

If you are changing your name for reasons other than marriage (e.g., spelling correction or personal choice), a Gazette Notification is mandatory. This is a legal document issued by the government.

To get this, you must first publish an advertisement in two newspapers (one local and one English) and submit an affidavit to the Department of Publication. Once your name is published in the Official Gazette, this document serves as the ultimate proof for your dl name change at the RTO.

Fees and Processing Timeline

Costs and waiting periods vary slightly by state, but here is a general estimate:

Service Type Estimated Fee (INR) Processing Time
Name Change on DL ₹200 - ₹500 15 - 30 Days
Address Update ₹200 - ₹400 10 - 20 Days
DOB Correction ₹300 - ₹500 20 - 30 Days
Smart Card Fee ₹200 (Extra) Varies by RTO

Common Mistakes to Avoid

⚠️ Inconsistent Proofs

Ensure your name on the Aadhaar card matches the name on your Marriage Certificate before applying for a name change on DL.

⚠️ Blurry Documents

Uploading low-resolution scans on the Parivahan portal often leads to application rejection. Use high-quality scans only.

⚠️ Missing the Deadline

Applying for an address change months after moving can sometimes attract a small penalty. Stay within the timeline.

⚠️ Using Nicknames

Always use the full legal name as per your official ID. Nicknames are not legally valid for DL documentation.

People Also Ask

1. Can I change my name on my driving licence online?
Yes, you can initiate the application and payment online via Parivahan, but a physical visit for verification is usually required.
2. Is a newspaper ad enough for a name change?
No, for a legal name change, a Gazette Notification is generally required alongside the newspaper clippings.
3. What if my DL is from another state?
You will first need to apply for a 'Change of Address' and an 'NOC' (No Objection Certificate) from the original RTO.
4. Can I correct my DOB more than once?
RTOs are very strict with DOB. Usually, it is a one-time correction unless there is a grave clerical error.
5. Do I get a new DL card after the update?
Yes, once approved, a new smart card with the updated details is dispatched to your address.
6. Is Aadhaar mandatory for DL correction?
While not the only option, it is the most preferred document for e-KYC and address proof.
7. What is Form LLD?
It is the specific application form used for the amendment or "Loss/Destruction" of a driving licence.
8. How can I track my application status?
You can use the 'Application Status' tab on the Parivahan portal using your application number.
9. Will my DL number change after the name update?
No, your unique Driving Licence number remains the same.
10. Can I drive while my application is pending?
Yes, you can carry the payment receipt and a copy of your old DL as temporary proof.
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