Yes, you can legally drive in India without carrying a physical driving license, provided you have a valid digital version accessible through government-approved platforms. Under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, documents like your driving license and registration certificate available on DigiLocker or the mParivahan app are legally recognized as equivalent to their original physical counterparts. Enforcement authorities are required by law to accept these digital records, as they are fetched directly from the national VAHAN and SARATHI databases.
However, a simple screenshot or an unverified scanned copy is not valid. Only versions fetched within the DigiLocker or mParivahan apps are considered authentic. While these digital documents offer significant convenience, it remains a legal requirement to possess a valid, active license. If you are ever stopped, presenting the certified digital document via these apps ensures you remain compliant with the requirements of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. If you face any issues with traffic authorities regarding these digital documents, a top criminal lawyer in Pune can assist in ensuring your rights are upheld. Furthermore, keeping your documents updated in these official portals ensures you avoid unnecessary friction during routine police checks or while navigating legal processes in the Pune Sessions Court. By relying on these verified digital records, you can confidently drive while keeping your physical originals safe.