Introduction
Imagine waiting hours in line, only to find your driving license application has an error. Or having to make multiple visits to the RTO (Regional Transport Office) just to renew your license. These situations are more common than we’d like to admit. That’s exactly the problem Sarathi Parivahan set out to fix.
Let’s take a deep dive into Sarathi Parivahan, how it addresses deep-rooted issues in India’s road transport system, and why it matters today more than ever.
The Old System Was Broken and Frustrating
Before Sarathi Parivahan, getting a driving license in India was a tedious, paper-based process. Citizens faced several bottlenecks:
1. Multiple Visits to RTO
Applicants often had to make 3–4 visits for a single task like license issuance or renewal. Long queues, paperwork delays, and lack of transparency added to the problem.
2. Corruption and Agents
Due to the manual nature of the system, many people had to rely on agents. A 2018 survey by CMS India Transparency found that nearly 59% of respondents paid bribes for transport services, most commonly for driving licenses.
3. Poor Record-Keeping
Data was stored manually, increasing the risk of loss, forgery, or duplication. Tracking applications or verifying driving credentials was slow and unreliable.
4. No Nationwide Integration
Every state had its own RTO and often, their processes and databases were not integrated. This caused inefficiency, especially for people moving between states.
Solution: Sarathi Parivahan The Digital Game Changer
To fix these long-standing issues, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) launched Sarathi Parivahan under the National e-Governance Plan (NeGP).
The platform is designed to digitize and centralize all processes related to driver licensing in India.
“I used to take leave from work just to apply for a learner’s license. Now I did everything online from my phone.” — Suresh, Bengaluru
What Is Sarathi Parivahan?
Sarathi Parivahan is an online platform that enables citizens to apply for various driver-related services without physically visiting the RTO multiple times. These include:
Learner’s License (LL)
Driving License (DL)
Address Change
Duplicate License
License Extract for Visa
Key Features That Make a Difference
1. Unified Online Portal
Sarathi is available in over 30 states and UTs, making it one of the most inclusive transport platforms in India.
2. Aadhaar Integration
It allows Aadhaar-based identity verification, reducing paperwork and fraud.
3. Real-Time Application Tracking
Applicants can track their request status using an application number or SMS alerts.
4. Slot Booking for Tests
You can book learner’s or driving test slots directly on the portal, reducing wait times and improving scheduling.
5.Fee Payment Integration
Online payment options through credit/debit card, UPI, and net banking reduce the need for cash transactions.
Step-by-Step Services Available on Sarathi Parivahan
Here’s a breakdown of what you can do on the platform:
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Apply for Learner’s License | Fill out online form, upload documents, pay fees, and book a test slot |
| Apply for Driving License | Apply after clearing LL, upload documents, book test, and pay fee |
| Renewal of DL | Submit renewal request before license expiry |
| Duplicate License | In case of lost or damaged license |
| Address Change | Update personal details or address in existing license |
| International Driving Permit | Apply with supporting documents and get IDP issued |
| Add Class of Vehicle | Add new vehicle types (e.g., two-wheeler, commercial) to existing license |
Statistical Impact of Sarathi Parivahan
Let’s look at the hard data to see what Sarathi has achieved:
As of March 2025, over 12 crore driving licenses have been digitized via Sarathi.
More than 80 lakh applications were processed through Sarathi in FY 2023–2024 alone.
The platform is integrated with VAHAN, the vehicle registration platform, ensuring seamless data syncing between vehicle and license databases.
Result: Faster, more transparent, and more secure processing of driving-related services.
Real Case Studies: Proof That It Works
Delhi RTO Digitization
Before digitization, Delhi RTOs handled over 1,000 license applications daily on paper. After Sarathi implementation, 95% of license applications in Delhi moved online, cutting down in-person visits by over 60%.
Rural Outreach in Uttar Pradesh
Sarathi’s mobile interface allowed applicants in Tier-3 towns of Uttar Pradesh to apply for licenses using smartphones. The program was supported by Common Service Centres (CSCs), making license access more inclusive.
Challenges and Limitations of Sarathi Parivahan
While the platform is robust, it’s not without flaws:
Server Downtime: During peak hours, the site can be slow or unresponsive.
Limited in Some States: A few states like Nagaland and parts of the Northeast still rely on partially manual systems.
Digital Literacy Barrier: Rural users may struggle without access to guidance or smartphones.
These challenges are being addressed with training programs and CSCs.
How to Use Sarathi Parivahan Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a simplified guide for applying for a Driving License via Sarathi:
Step 1: Select Your State
This redirects you to your state-specific RTO portal.
Step 2: Choose “Apply for Driving License”
Select service, fill out forms, and upload required documents.
Step 3: Upload Documents
You’ll need address proof, age proof, passport-size photo, and LL (if applying for DL).
Step 4: Pay Fees
Pay online using UPI, debit/credit card, or net banking.
Step 5: Appear for Test
Visit the selected RTO with originals. After passing the test, the DL is issued.
Sarathi Parivahan vs Old System Quick Comparison
| Feature | Old System | Sarathi Parivahan |
|---|---|---|
| Application Mode | Paper-based | Fully Online |
| Number of Visits | 3–4 per task | Often 1 or 2 (only for test/biometric) |
| Fee Payment | Manual, cash-based | Online, secure |
| Test Scheduling | Manual at RTO | Slot booking system |
| Record Keeping | Paper files | Digital database |
| Fraud Risk | High | Reduced through Aadhaar validation |
FAQs
Is Sarathi available in all states?
Most Indian states and UTs are on Sarathi. Check the homepage to confirm your state’s availability.
Can I track my license status online?
Yes, you can track it using your application number or registered mobile number.
Do I still need to go to the RTO?
Yes, for biometric data collection and driving tests. Everything else can be done online.
What is the official website?
https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
Conclusion
Sarathi Parivahan is a powerful tool that makes driving services super simple and digital. If someone in your family is getting a license, now you know how they do it! Want to learn more about other cool government websites? Check out our digital India guide for kids.