Losing or damaging a driver’s license can be a problem, but acquiring a duplicate driver’s license in India is a simple process. Whether you have lost, misplaced or damaged your license beyond recognition, this is a step-by-step guide to get a new one.
What to Do Immediately If Your Driving Licence Is Lost
If you realise your driving licence is missing, follow these steps:
1. File a Police Complaint (FIR)
If your licence is stolen or lost in public places, it is advisable to file an FIR at the nearest police station. This helps prevent misuse of your licence. Some RTOs may require the FIR copy when applying for a duplicate licence.
2. Check if You Have a Digital Copy
If you have previously uploaded your licence to DigiLocker or mParivahan, you can temporarily use the digital copy while applying for a duplicate licence. Digital licences are legally accepted in India.
3. Apply for a Duplicate Driving Licence
You can apply for a duplicate licence either:
Online through the Parivahan Portal
Offline at your local RTO
Who Can Apply for a Duplicate Driving License in India?
The following are the people who can apply for a duplicate DL in India:
- If you have lost your original driving license: Individuals who have lost or misplaced their original DL and cannot find it can apply for a duplicate DL.
- DL is destroyed beyond recognition: In case the license is destroyed in such a way, the photo is beyond recognition.
- If you don’t have your original DL & need a reissue from RTO: If the original license is stolen or misplaced & RTO requires a reissue.
- If your DL has expired: A duplicate, along with a renewal, may be issued.
- If you want to update personal details: Name, address, marital status or other details, you may require a new license.
So basically, if you have a valid driver’s license that is either stolen, damaged or lost, you can apply for a duplicate one. However, if your DL is confiscated by authorities due to legal reasons, in such cases, a duplicate DL cannot be issued.
Read: List of Documents Required to Buy a Two Wheeler in India
What are Documents Required for Duplicate Driving License?
To apply for a duplicate DL, you need the following documents:
- Form LLD or Form 2
- Copy of First Information Report (FIR) stating your license is lost or stolen
- Original license details (copy of damaged DL or details)
- Damaged license (if available)
- Attested copy of original DL (if stolen or lost vehicle)
- Self-attested copy of valid address proof (utility bill, voter ID or rental agreement)
How to Apply for a Driving License Online?
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has made it convenient to acquire a duplicate DL with the Sarathi Parivahan Sewa portal. Here is how to do it:
- Visit the Sarathi Parivahan Sewa portal & choose your state
- Select ‘Services on Driving License’ and click on ‘Apply for Duplicate Driving License’
- Fill in all the details
- Collect the required documents, like the original driving license (if available), identity proof (eg. Aadhar card, PAN card, etc), address proof (utility bill, voter ID) and passport-size photographs.
- Visit the nearest RTO office (Regional Transport Office) and submit the LLD form along with the supporting documents to the RTO official.
- Pay the applicable fee for a duplicate license at the RTO counter or online. The online system will send you to the payment gateway and complete the payment process.
- You will get an acknowledgement receipt and secure it for future reference.
- After processing, the DL will be sent to your registered residential address via post.
How to Apply for Duplicate Driving License Offline?
- Visit the nearest RTO office and fill out Form 2, Form 7, and the LLD Form, and complete the form with correct information.
- Submit the necessary documents, including identity proof, address proof and an affidavit stating the loss of the original DL.
- Pay the applicable fee at the RTO office
- After submitting the application and payment, collect the acknowledgement receipt
How Much is the Cost of Duplicate Driving License?
The cost of a duplicate DL in India is Rs. 200 for the application fee and an additional charge of Rs. 250 for the smart card.
How to Track the Status of a Duplicate Driving License?
After the application is submitted, you can check the status online on the Sarathi Parivahan Sewa portal. Fill in the details of your acknowledgement slip to receive real-time updates on shipping status.
Conclution
Losing your driving license is frustrating, but with convenient facilities, acquiring a duplicate DL is simple. Just like losing your driving license is an added problem, a bike break down cam be equally frustrating. That is when Doctor Garage can help you. Our bike servicing in India ensures your bike is in top condition, providing a smooth and safe ride each time. To schedule an appointment, call us today.
Source: https://parivahan.gov.in/
https://cot.gujarat.gov.in/driving-licence.htm#:~:text=For%20Change%20in%20Details%20of,200%2F%2D%20should%20be%20paid.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
If your driving licence is lost, you should first file a complaint at the nearest police station and obtain an FIR copy. After that, you can apply for a duplicate driving licence through the Parivahan portal or at your local RTO
Form LLD is the official application form required for obtaining a duplicate driving licence in India. This form is submitted to the RTO when your original licence is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Processing time typically ranges between 7 and 15 working days. This depends on RTO verification and state procedures.
Driving without a licence is illegal. However, you can carry a digital driving licence in DigiLocker or the mParivahan app, which is legally accepted by traffic authorities in India.
Yes, but the process may require additional verification. In most cases, you should apply through the RTO where your original licence was issued.
