How to Change Your Mobile Number on a Driving Licence in India – A Step‑by‑Step Guide (2025 Edition)
Introduction
A driving licence is one of the most important identity documents in India. It not only proves you’re legally allowed to drive, but it’s also linked to the National Register of Citizens (NRC), the Vahan and Parivahan databases, and many other government services.
If you’ve switched to a new mobile number, you’ll want that change reflected on your licence‑related records promptly. A wrong or outdated phone number can lead to:
- Missed renewal or duplicate‑licence alerts
- Failure to receive OTPs for online services (e.g., applying for a duplicate licence, vehicle registration, or tax payments)
- Inability to receive important traffic‑law updates or emergency notifications
Fortunately, updating your mobile number is a straightforward process—both online and offline. Below is a comprehensive, up‑to‑date (2025) guide to help you get it done without any hassle.
1. Quick Overview of the Options
| Mode | Where to Start | Typical Turn‑around | Cost | Documents Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online (Parivahan Sewa Portal) | parivahan.gov.in → “Online Services” → “Change Mobile Number” | 2–3 business days (SMS confirmation) | ₹ 0 (free) | Aadhaar / Licence number, OTP to current mobile |
| Offline – Regional Transport Office (RTO) | Visit nearest RTO / Sub‑Regional Transport Office (SRTO) | Same‑day to 7 days, depending on queue | ₹ 50–₹ 100 (service fee) | Form 9, Licence, Proof of new number (new SIM), Passport‑size photo |
| Through Common Service Centres (CSCs) | Locate a CSC; ask for “Driving Licence Services” | 3–5 days | Same as RTO fee + nominal CSC commission | Same as offline RTO |
Which one should you choose?
- If you have a working old mobile number (to receive the OTP), the online route is fastest and free.
- If the old number is dead or SIM is de‑activated, you’ll need to go offline (RTO/CSC) and present a fresh proof of identity and the new SIM.
2. Prerequisites Before You Begin
- A Valid Driving Licence (any class – MCW, LMV, HMV, etc.).
- Your Aadhaar Number (mandatory for online verification).
- Active Internet Connection (if you’re opting for the online method).
- A Freshly Purchased SIM Card in your name (the new mobile number you want to register).
- Passport‑size Photo (for offline RTO/CSC – usually 2 copies).
3. Changing Mobile Number Online (Parivahan Sewa Portal)
Note: The online process works only if your existing mobile number is still active because the portal sends an OTP to that number for verification.
Step‑by‑Step Walkthrough
- Open the portal – Visit
https://parivahan.gov.inand click on “Online Services” under the “Citizen Services” section. - Select “Change Mobile Number” – You’ll find it under the “Driving Licence Services” subsection.
- Enter your Licence Details
- Licence Number (e.g., DL‑08‑1234567890123)
- Date of Birth (as per licence)
- Your current mobile number (the one you still have access to)
- Enter the OTP – An OTP will be sent to the existing mobile number. Input it correctly.
- Provide the New Mobile Number – Type the 10‑digit new number and confirm it.
- Upload Supporting Documents (if prompted)
- Aadhaar Card (masked version, only first & last 4 digits visible).
- New SIM card proof – Usually a screenshot of the “Welcome SMS” from the new operator or a photo of the SIM card with your name visible.
- Review & Submit – Double‑check the details, tick the consent box, and click “Submit.”
- Confirmation – You’ll receive a reference number (e.g., “RN‑2025‑DL‑00123”). Keep it safe; you can track the status via the “Track Application Status” link.
What Happens Next?
- The transport department validates the request (typically 24‑48 hrs).
- Once approved, an SMS confirmation is sent to both the old and the new numbers.
- Your mobile number gets updated across the Vahan and Parivahan databases instantly.
Common Issues & Fixes
| Issue | Why It Happens | How to Resolve |
|---|---|---|
| OTP not received | Network glitch, SIM deactivated, DND enabled | Ensure your old SIM is active; temporarily disable DND; request OTP again after 5 minutes |
| System says “Mobile number already linked to another licence” | New number is already registered on a different licence (possible duplicate SIM) | Use a different, unused number; or contact the nearest RTO for manual verification |
| Document upload fails | File size > 1 MB or wrong format | Resize/compress the image; use PDF/JPEG |
4. Changing Mobile Number Offline (RTO / SRTO)
If you cannot receive OTP on the old number (SIM lost, number changed, deactivated), you’ll need to visit a transport office.
A. What to Bring
| Document | Why It’s Required |
|---|---|
| Form 9 – Application for Change of Mobile Number (downloadable from the RTO website or obtained at the counter) | Official request |
| Original Driving Licence | To verify ownership |
| New Mobile Number Proof – a copy of the welcome SMS, or the first page of the mobile bill (with your name) | Confirms the new number belongs to you |
| Passport‑size Photograph (2 copies) | For the updated licence record |
| Aadhaar Card (original + copy) | Identity verification (mandatory since 2023) |
| Old Mobile SIM (if still in possession) – optional | Helps the officer match the old number, but not mandatory |
B. Procedure
- Collect Form 9 – Either download and print it, or collect at the RTO counter.
- Fill in the details – Write legibly: licence number, old mobile number, new mobile number, reason for change, and sign.
- Attach documents – Affix photocopies of Aadhaar, new SIM proof, and two passport photos.
- Submit at the RTO – Hand over the form and documents to the “Licence Issuance” or “Public Grievances” counter.
- Pay the nominal fee – ₹ 50–₹ 100 (cash or digital). Get a receipt containing an Application Number.
- Verification – An RTO officer will verify the documents, possibly call the new number for a quick OTP (some states now do this).
- Collect Confirmation – You’ll receive a “Mobile Number Change Certificate” (usually a printed slip) on the same day. The central database updates within 2–3 days.
C. What You Get
- No new physical licence is issued; the change is reflected digitally.
- If you later need a duplicate licence, the updated number will appear automatically.
5. Using a Common Service Centre (CSC)
CSCs act as government‑authorized kiosks in villages and towns. The process mirrors the offline RTO method, but a CSC operator handles the paperwork and fees.
Steps:
- Locate the nearest CSC via the “CSC Locator” app or website.
- Inform the operator you want to “Change Mobile Number on Driving Licence.”
- Provide the same documents listed for the RTO.
- Pay the service fee (RTO fee + CSC commission).
- The operator will submit the request on your behalf and give you a tracking ID.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need to re‑apply for a duplicate licence after changing the mobile number? | No. The mobile number is stored in the central database (Parivahan). A duplicate licence will automatically display the updated number. |
| Can I change the number if my licence is suspended or de‑activated? | Yes, but you must first clear any pending penalties. The RTO may request proof of payment before processing the mobile‑number change. |
| What if I have multiple licences (e.g., one for a two‑wheel, another for a four‑wheel)? | The mobile number change applies to all licences linked to your Aadhaar. You only need to submit the request once. |
| Is there any risk of identity theft during this process? | The portal uses OTP verification and Aadhaar‑based authentication, which are secure. Always ensure you are on the official parivahan.gov.in site (look for HTTPS & the official seal). |
| Can a family member update my number on my behalf? | Only if they have a Power of Attorney (PoA) notarised in your favour and present your original licence and Aadhaar. The RTO may still ask for your biometric verification. |
| Will the change reflect instantly on the Vahan vehicle‑registration portal? | Yes. Once the central database is updated (usually within 24‑48 hrs), it propagates to Vahan, Parivahan, and the state transport department’s systems. |
| What if the online portal shows “Service Unavailable” for my state? | Some states (e.g., Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh) still rely on offline processing. Use the RTO/CSC route in those jurisdictions. |
| Do I need a static IP or any special software to apply online? | No. A regular internet browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox) works fine. Enable JavaScript and cookies. |
| Is there any additional cost for receiving OTPs on the new number? | No. OTPs are free SMS messages from the transport department. |
7. Tips & Tricks to Speed Up the Process
- Keep your old SIM active at least until the change is confirmed. Deactivating it early can block the OTP.
- Double‑check the new SIM proof – A clear screenshot of the welcome message with your name and number reduces rejection chances.
- Use the “Track Application” feature on the Parivahan portal (enter your reference number) to know exactly when the update is completed.
- Visit the RTO during off‑peak hours (early morning on weekdays) to avoid long queues.
- Carry a copy of your driving licence (photocopy) besides the original; some officers ask for both.
- If you’re a senior citizen (≥60 years), request “Senior Citizen Assistance” at the RTO; they often have a dedicated counter.
8. Quick Checklist (Print & Keep)
| ✅ | Item |
|---|---|
| ☐ | Driving licence (original) |
| ☐ | Aadhaar card (original + copy) |
| ☐ | New mobile SIM proof (welcome SMS / first bill) |
| ☐ | Form 9 (filled in) |
| ☐ | Two passport‑size photographs |
| ☐ | Old mobile SIM (optional) |
| ☐ | Rs. 50–100 cash or digital payment method |
| ☐ | Receipt / Application number (for tracking) |
Final Word
Updating your mobile number on your driving licence is a minor yet essential housekeeping task that ensures you stay connected with the transport department’s alerts and services. Whether you prefer the convenient online route (if your old number is still functional) or the traditional RTO/CSC method, the steps above will guide you through the process with confidence.
Stay safe on the road, keep your documents current, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with an up‑to‑date driving licence!