🛫 How to Get an Indian Driving Licence from Abroad – NRI Guide (2025)
Are you an Indian citizen or NRI living abroad and planning a visit to India? If you’re wondering how to get a driving licence while overseas, this guide will help you through the updated 2025 process.
🌍 Who Can Apply from Abroad?
- NRIs with valid Indian ID proof
- OCI/PIO cardholders visiting India
- Foreign citizens staying long-term in India
📑 Required Documents
- Valid passport
- OCI/PIO card or Indian visa
- Indian address proof (rental agreement, relative's address, etc.)
- Aadhar Card (if available)
- Passport-size photo
💻 Step-by-Step Process
- Visit sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
- Select the Indian state you plan to visit.
- Click on “Apply for New Driving Licence”.
- Fill the form with passport & address details.
- Upload scanned documents.
- Book an appointment date (if required by local RTO).
- Pay online fees.
📦 Tip for NRIs
Even if you're overseas, you can start the application online. The test and biometrics must be done in India. So, plan a short visit for this step.
📖 Real Case Study: NRI from New Jersey Applies in Mumbai
Case: Sanjay Mehta, a 28-year-old software engineer, moved to New Jersey for work in 2020. In 2025, he visited his family in Mumbai for a month and decided to apply for an Indian Driving Licence during the trip.
Sanjay had a valid passport, an OCI card, and used his uncle’s Mumbai address as proof of residence. Before flying to India, he visited the Sarathi portal and filled out the online application. He uploaded scanned copies of his documents and paid the ₹700 fees online.
After reaching Mumbai, he visited the Andheri RTO on his appointment date. He passed the driving test and provided biometrics. Within 7 working days, his DL was printed and delivered to his uncle’s address.
Key Learning: Even as an NRI, you can successfully get an Indian DL with proper planning, documents, and a short visit to India.
🙋 FAQs
Can I apply for a DL without Indian address proof?
No. Indian address proof is required even if you apply from abroad. You can use your family’s address temporarily.
How long does the process take?
From online application to receiving your DL, it usually takes 10–15 days if everything is in order.
Is a learner’s licence mandatory for NRIs too?
Yes, NRIs also need to go through the learner's licence process unless they qualify for exemption (like having a foreign licence).
🔗 Related Links
🧠 Final Thoughts
Getting an Indian driving licence as an NRI is simple if you have the right documents. Starting online saves time, and the updated system in 2025 makes the process smoother than ever.
📌 Tip: Keep a scanned copy of all your documents handy, and always double-check your RTO’s specific state-level rules.
