Key Takeaways
- The RTO in Delhi looks after vehicle registration, driving licences, and road tax.
- It ensures that all vehicles and drivers follow traffic laws.
- Every vehicle owner in Delhi will need RTO services at some stage.
The Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Delhi manages vehicle registration, driving licences, road tax, and other transport-related services. It plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth governance of traffic and compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act.
For example, Rajesh, a new car owner in Delhi, recently visited the RTO to register his vehicle. He discovered that without proper registration and payment of road tax, he would not be allowed to legally drive his car on the roads. At the same time, he also applied for a smart card driving licence, which not only served as proof of his eligibility to drive but also acted as an identity document. Like many others, Rajesh realised that the RTO is not just about paperwork but also about ensuring road safety and accountability for all motorists.
In this blog, we will discuss the functions, services, and important details related to RTO Delhi that every vehicle owner should know.
List of RTO Delhi Offices
In Delhi, Regional Transport Offices operate across a number of zones, each designated by an RTO code (DL-01 to DL-13) and serving specific localities.
- DL-01: North Zone to Mall Road (North Delhi)
- DL-02: I P Estate to New Delhi
- DL-03: South Delhi to Sheikh Sarai
- DL-04: West Delhi to Janakpuri
- DL-05: North East Delhi to Loni Road
- DL-06: Central Delhi to Sarai Kale Khan
- DL-07: East Delhi to Mayur Vihar Phase I
- DL-08: North West Delhi to Wazirpur
- DL-09: South West Delhi to Dwarka / Janakpuri (variously referenced)
- DL-10: West District II to Rajouri Garden
- DL-11: North West District II to Rohini
- DL-12: South West Delhi to Vasant Vihar
- DL-13: East Zone II to Surajmal Vihar
This list summarises the Delhi RTO zonal offices across the city's districts.
Functions of RTO Delhi
The RTO Delhi offices are responsible for ensuring that road transport remains safe, efficient, and well-regulated.
- Administer the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and related rules.
- Issue and renew driving licences and International Driving Permits.
- Register vehicles and carry out related activities.
- Provide trade certificates to vehicle dealers.
- Grant permits to transport vehicles and countersign permits for vehicles from other states.
- Address road safety concerns, with focus on school bus safety.
- Enforce emission and vehicle safety standards.
- Manage and operate Inter-State Bus Terminals.
- Integrate road transport with Metro, Railways, and Airports.
The RTO Delhi plays a key role in regulating transport, improving safety, and supporting seamless connectivity across the city.
Vehicle Registration Process at RTO Delhi
To register a vehicle in Delhi, applicants must approach the appropriate zonal office or authorised authority, depending on the vehicle type.
Process and offices for registration:
- Private / Non-commercial vehicles: Apply at your local zonal office of the Transport Department. Many self-registering dealers are also authorised and deliver vehicles after registration.
- Commercial vehicles: Approach the office of M.L.O. (Headquarters), Transport Department, 5/9 Under Hill Road, Delhi-110054.
- Goods carriers below 3000 kg: Approach M.L.O. (Burari).
- Taxis / TSRs: Approach M.L.O. (Auto Rickshaw & Taxi Unit) Burari or M.L.O. (Burari) for DL1Y, DL1Z, DL1ZZ AITP categories.
After submission, applicants receive a fee receipt on the same day as proof of application. The final Registration Certificate (Form-23A) can be collected once the smart card is prepared.
RTO Delhi has designated offices for each vehicle category, ensuring a structured and streamlined registration process.
Documents Required for Vehicle Registration in Delhi
In Delhi, every vehicle must undergo inspection at the zonal office by the Inspecting Authority, followed by submission of the required documents for registration.
- Form 20 (duly filled)
- Form 21 (Sale Certificate from dealer)
- Form 22 (Road Worthiness Certificate from manufacturer)
- Self-attested copy of valid id vehicle insurance policy/cover note
- Self-attested copy of address proof for registration
- Form 34 signed by the owner and the financer
- One-time road tax (as applicable)
- Prescribed registration fee
- PAN Card or Form 60/61 (as applicable)
- MCD parking fees
- Dealer invoice along with the manufacturer invoice
In conclusion, the RTO Delhi completes registration only after inspection and verification of all the necessary documents.
RTO Delhi Charges for Vehicle Registration
In Delhi, road tax and registration charges are decided by RTO Delhi based on the ownership type, fuel used, and vehicle price. MCD parking fees are also applied in addition to the road tax.
Charges for Individual Registration:
- Price up to ₹600,000: Petrol: 4%, Diesel: 5%
- Price between ₹600,001 – ₹1,000,000: Petrol: 7%, Diesel: 8.75%
- Price above ₹1,000,000: Petrol: 10%, Diesel: 12.5%
- Electric cars: Zero road tax
- MCD parking fee: ₹2,000 (cars priced under ₹400,000), ₹4,000 (others)
Charges for Company Registration:
- Price up to ₹600,000: Petrol: 5%, Diesel: 6.25%
- Price between ₹600,001 – ₹1,000,000: Petrol: 8.75%, Diesel: 10.94%
- Price above ₹1,000,000: Petrol: 12.5%, Diesel: 15.625%
- Electric cars: Zero road tax
- MCD parking fee: ₹2,000 (cars priced under ₹400,000), ₹4,000 (others)
In short, RTO Delhi ensures that registration charges are fair and structured, with electric cars enjoying complete exemption from road tax.
How to get a Driving License in Delhi(Online & Offline)
In Delhi, you can apply for a driving licence online through the Sarathi Parivahan portal by following these steps.
How to Get a Driving Licence in Delhi (Online)
In Delhi, you can apply for a driving licence online through the Sarathi Parivahan portal by following these steps.
Steps to apply online:
- Visit the official website: Sarathi Parivahan Portal. You will see an option of “Select State Name.” Click on that.
- Select Delhi from the list of states.
- Click on “Apply for Driving Licence” under the “Driving Licence” section.
- Fill in the online application form with personal, address, and vehicle details.
- Upload the required documents (proof of age, proof of address, learner’s licence, etc.).
- Book a slot for the driving test at your chosen RTO.
- Pay the prescribed fee online.
- Visit the RTO on the scheduled date to take your driving test.
- On passing the test, your driving licence will be processed and sent as a smart card.
In short, applying online makes the process simple, requiring just an application, document upload, fee payment, and a driving test at the RTO Delhi. However, before applying for a permanent licence, you must already hold a learner’s licence for at least 30 days.
How to Get a Driving Licence in Delhi (Offline)?
For applicants who prefer the traditional route, the driving licence can also be obtained by visiting the RTO office in person.
Steps to apply offline:
- Visit your nearest RTO Delhi office.
- Collect Form 4 (application for driving licence) and fill it in.
- Attach documents such as proof of age, proof of address, photographs, and a learner’s licence.
- Submit the application form along with the prescribed fee at the counter.
- Book a driving test appointment at the RTO Delhi.
- Appear for the driving test on the assigned date.
- On passing the test, your driving licence will be processed and delivered as a smart card.
The offline method involves visiting the RTO Delhi physically, submitting forms and documents, and completing the driving test for successful issuance of a licence.
Required Documents for Driving Licence Application in Delhi
To apply for renewal of a driving licence in Delhi, applicants must provide specific documents based on whether the licence is private or commercial.
For Private Licence:
- Application in Form No. 9
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- Original driving licence held
- Attested copies of valid proof of age and residence
- Form No. 1 (self-declaration of physical fitness)
For Commercial Licence:
- All documents required for a private licence
- Medical Certificate in Form No. 1A
- Driver refresher training certificate (for HMV category)
- Verification of licence particulars from the issuing authority
While private licences are usually renewed on the same day, commercial licences are renewed only after proper verification from the concerned authority.
Bonus Tip:
Always keep all vehicle and personal documents ready before visiting RTO Delhi or using their online services, as this saves time and avoids repeated trips or delays.
Driving Licence Fees at RTO Delhi
Below are the standard fees prescribed for obtaining or renewing a driving licence in Delhi, as per the central government's Parivahan portal:
- Learner’s Licence (each vehicle class): ₹150
- Learner’s Licence test (or repeat test): ₹50
- Driving skill test (per vehicle class): ₹300
- Issue of Driving Licence: ₹200
- International Driving Permit (IDP): ₹1,000
- Addition of another vehicle class to an existing licence: ₹500
- Endorsement or renewal for hazardous-goods vehicles: ₹1,000
- Renewal of Driving Licence (within grace period): ₹200
- Renewal after grace period: ₹300 plus ₹1,000 per year (or part thereof) delay penalty
Delhi’s driving-licence fees are structured to cover tests, issuance, renewals, and special authorisations, with significant penalties for late renewal.
How to Pay Road Tax Online in Delhi
In Delhi, road tax can be paid quickly through the Vahan Parivahan portal by following these steps.
Steps to pay road tax online:
- Log in to vahan.parivahan.gov.in/vahaneservice. There will be a section “Steps to Avail any Vahan Online Service.” Floor those steps first.
- Hover over “Online Services” and select “Pay Vehicle Tax”.
- Enter your vehicle’s registration number and chassis number, then click Generate OTP.
- Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number and click Submit.
- Select the tax mode.
- Provide permit details, if applicable.
- View the total payable amount displayed as per your selected tax mode and click Submit.
- Confirm the payment.
- Choose a payment gateway, accept the terms and conditions, and click Continue.
Paying road tax online in Delhi is a simple process of logging in, verifying details, and completing payment securely through the portal.
Traffic Fines and Penalties in Delhi
In Delhi, traffic fines are imposed to ensure road safety and discipline, with penalties depending on the nature and seriousness of the offence.
Common offences and penalties:
- Travelling on the running board (passengers): ₹500 for the first offence, ₹1,500 for repeat offences
- Obstructive driving (extra passenger on driver’s seat): ₹500 / ₹1,500
- Triple riding on two-wheeler: ₹1,000 (same for repeat)
- Using Non-Motorised Vehicle (NMV) lanes: ₹20,000 (same for repeat)
- Not giving way to an emergency vehicle: ₹10,000 (same for repeat)
- Disobeying lawful directions (e.g., after an accident): ₹2,000 (same for repeat)
- Driving without a permit: ₹10,000 (same for repeat)
- Using a horn in a “No Honking” zone: ₹1,000 / ₹2,000
- Jumping a red light or other dangerous driving: Court challan
- Driving without insurance: ₹2,000 for first offence, ₹4,000 for subsequent offences
Click here to know more.
The fines in Delhi are designed to discourage unsafe driving habits and encourage responsible behaviour on the road.
Conclusion
RTO Delhi plays a vital role in managing vehicle registration, driving licences, and road tax, ensuring compliance with transport laws. By using its services, both individuals and businesses can remain legally compliant while contributing to safer and more organised roads in the capital.
FAQ’s
1. What services does RTO Delhi offer?
RTO Delhi handles everything from registering new vehicles and issuing licences to collecting road tax and ensuring traffic rule compliance.
2. How do I apply for vehicle registration in Delhi?
You can submit your application online through the Parivahan portal or visit your nearest RTO office with the required documents and fees.
3. Can I access RTO Delhi services online?
Yes, services like licence applications, vehicle registration renewal, tax payments, and appointment booking are available online for convenience.
4. What are the current road tax rules in Delhi?
Road tax rates depend on the vehicle type, engine capacity, fuel type, and cost. Notably, electric vehicles are given a full road tax exemption in Delhi.
5. How do I get a driving licence in Delhi?
First, you must apply for a learner’s licence. After holding it for at least 30 days, you can apply for a permanent driving licence and take the driving test at RTO Delhi.
Apply for Loans Fast and Hassle-Free
About the Author

LoansJagat Team
‘Simplify Finance for Everyone.’ This is the common goal of our team, as we try to explain any topic with relatable examples. From personal to business finance, managing EMIs to becoming debt-free, we do extensive research on each and every parameter, so you don’t have to. Scroll up and have a look at what 15+ years of experience in the BFSI sector looks like.