
Sarathi Eye Certificate
Last Updated: May 14, 2025
- Dr. Pradeep Singh, M.B.B.S., M.D.
The Sarathi Eye Certificate is an essential medical document you need when you're applying for driving license renewal, or getting an International Driving Permit in Kerala. It's a must-have and should be signed and stamped by an ophthalmologist, along with the clinic's location stamp. Just a heads up, this certificate is only required in Kerala and isn't needed in any other state or Union Territory in India.
Visual Standards Required for Driving
The visual standards required for driving in Kerala are typically outlined by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and assessed through a Sarathi Eye Certificate. These are listed below:
I. Visual Acuity
Visual Acuity | A. Unaided | B. Corrected | Sph | Cyl | Axis | C. Binocular Corrected |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
RE | ||||||
LE |
II. Night blindness …………………………………………………………….
III. Squint……………………………………………………………………….
IV. Field (Degrees) Horizontal …………………… Vertical …………………
V. Fundus: ………………RE ……………………..LE………………………
VI. Any other significant ocular morbidity: ……………………………………
Candidate is fit / unfit to drive a Category I / II vehicle. Unfit due to criteria ……………………………………………………. mentioned above.
Who Needs to Submit a Sarathi Eye Certificate?
There are three situations where you'll need to provide your Sarathi Eye Certificate:
- As you near 40: If you're getting close to turning 40 and need to apply for a new driving license or renew your current one, you'll have to submit the Sarathi Eye Certificate.
- At 40 years or older: Once you hit 40 or beyond and are looking to get a new driving license or renew your existing one, it's necessary to include the Sarathi Eye Certificate along with Form 1A.
- For an International Driving Permit (IDP): If you're applying for an International Driving Permit, often referred to as an IDP, you'll need to submit the Sarathi Eye Certificate along with Form 1A.
How to Obtain the Sarathi Eye Certificate?
Visit the official Parivahan Sewa website.
Choose the Drivers/Learners License option.
Select your state or UT where you are submitting your application.
Click on Application Status at the top right-hand corner, and enter your application number, date of birth, and the captcha code.
On the right-hand side, you will see the Self Declaration Form. Click on it, and you will see a long PDF file with multiple pages. Your Sarathi Eye Certificate will be on the 6th page.
You can share your Sarathi Eye Certificate with an ophthalmologist to get it stamped and signed.
Medical Examination Need for the Eye Certificate
Book an appointment with an ophthalmologist
Get your eyes tested
Receive your signed and stamped Sarathi Eye Certificate
Now the major question is: Should you visit a local ophthalmologist clinic or go to a hospital to get it signed?
But as you know, in today’s fast-paced world, it’s hard to find time to spare. Visiting a clinic or hospital, taking the eye examination, and consulting an ophthalmologist can easily take at least 4–5 hours of your time. Now, let us tell you the easiest and quickest way to get your Sarathi Eye Certificate and Form 1A:
- Visit Medbond
- Fill out the request form
- Your dedicated medical advisor will reach out to you to organize your eye test
- Complete your eye test in just 15 minutes
- Receive your Sarathi Eye Certificate within 30 minutes of your test
How to Submit Your Document
Ensure the file is in PDF format and under 1 MB in size.
Log in to your application status section on the Parivahan Sewa website.
Upload your document in the designated field for the Sarathi Eye Certificate.
Important Tips for Eye Certificate Submission
Document Quality: Make sure scanned documents are clear and within the specified size limit.
Validity Period: The eye certificate should be recent and valid at the time of application. It should not be more than 6 months old.
Professional Certification: Ensure the certificate is signed by an ophthalmologist and includes the ophthalmologist’s location stamp.
RTOs in Kerala
RTO Adoor [KL26], RTO Alappuzha [KL04], RTO Attingal [KL16], RTO Chengannur [KL30], RTO Changanassery [KL33], RTO Cherthala [KL32], RTO Ernakulam [KL07], RTO Idukki [KL06], RTO Karunagapally [KL23], RTO Kazhakkoottam [KL22], RTO Kottarakara [KL24], RTO Kottayam [KL05], RTO Kollam [KL02], RTO Kannur [KL13], RTO Kasaragod [KL14], RTO Malappuram [KL10], RTO Mavelikara [KL31], RTO Mallappally [KL28], RTO Muvattupuzha [KL17], RTO Neyyattinkara [KL20], RTO Nedumangad [KL21], RTO Palakkad [KL09], RTO Pala [KL35], RTO Pathanamthitta [KL03], RTO Parassala [KL19], RTO Punalur [KL25], RTO Thiruvananthapuram [KL01], RTO Thiruvalla [KL27], RTO Thrissur [KL08], RTO Vadakara [KL18], RTO Wayanad [KL12].
Recent Updates and Digital Transformation
Due to multiple cases of medical document forgery, the Kerala Government has taken steps to ensure that applicants submit a Sarathi Eye Certificate signed by a certified ophthalmologist, along with the location stamp of the ophthalmologist.
This recent update ensures that only applicants who are medically fit are permitted to drive on the road.
The Parivahan Sewa website is a one-stop solution introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) to streamline the driving license process across all states and Union Territories. This initiative has not only digitized the entire driving license application process but also helps ensure transparency and prevent malpractice.
Conclusion
The SARATHI eye certificate is a crucial document in the driving license application process, ensuring that all drivers meet the necessary visual standards for safe driving. By following the steps outlined above and staying compliant with the latest requirements, you can successfully obtain and submit your eye certificate through the Parivahan Sewa portal.
Remember that requirements may vary slightly by state, so it's always recommended to check with your local RTO or visit the official Parivahan website for the most up-to-date information specific to your region.